Rivian R2 is moving closer to production, and the company has now confirmed pricing and early specifications for the first versions of its highly anticipated electric SUV.
The first R2 model to reach customers will be a dual-motor Performance variant starting at $57,990, with deliveries expected to begin in spring 2026. More affordable trims are expected to follow over the next two years, including a rear-wheel-drive version starting around $48,490 and a future entry-level trim targeting a starting price near $45,000.
The R2 is widely seen as a key vehicle for Rivian as the company looks to move beyond its premium R1 lineup and compete more directly in the growing mid-size electric SUV segment.
Rivian R2 Performance Launch Package
The first R2 variant available to customers will be the Performance model with the Launch Package.
- Starting price: $57,990
- Release date: Spring 2026
- Range: about 330 miles
- Battery: 88 kWh
- Power: 656 horsepower
- Torque: 609 lb-ft
- 0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds
- Charging: 10% to 80% in about 29 minutes
- Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD
- Wheels: 21-inch
- Ground clearance: 9.6 inches
- Towing capacity: 4,400 lbs
- Charging port: Native NACS
Launch Package Features
The Launch Package adds several premium upgrades, including:
- Lifetime access to the Autonomy+ driver assistance system
- Tow package
- Exclusive Launch Green exterior color
- Semi-active suspension
- Matrix LED headlights
- Heated and ventilated front seats
Rivian also says the R2 offers 90.1 cubic feet of total storage space, helping position it as a practical family EV as well as a performance-oriented one.
Rivian R2 Premium Trim
A more affordable R2 Premium trim is expected to follow later in 2026.
- Starting price: $53,990
- Range: about 330 miles
- Power: 450 horsepower
- 0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds
- Battery: 88 kWh
- Charging: 10% to 80% in about 29 minutes
- Drivetrain: Dual-motor AWD
Compared with the Performance model, the Premium trim removes some hardware and drive-focused upgrades, but keeps the same battery pack and overall range target.
Rivian R2 Standard Rear-Wheel Drive
The R2 Standard trim is expected to be the first truly lower-cost version in the lineup.
- Starting price: $48,490
- Release date: Early 2027
- Range: up to 345 miles
- Power: 350 horsepower
- Drivetrain: Single-motor RWD
- 0-60 mph: 5.9 seconds
- Battery: 88 kWh
While this version drops some premium features, it still looks highly competitive on range and day-to-day practicality.
The Future $45,000 Rivian R2
Rivian has also referenced an even more affordable R2 variant with a target price around $45,000. That version is expected later in 2027, although full specifications have not yet been detailed.
Early expectations suggest a range around 275 miles, which would give Rivian a much more accessible entry point in the EV market.
Why the Rivian R2 Matters
The R2 is a critical product for Rivian's long-term growth strategy. The company's current lineup includes the R1S and R1T, both of which start above $70,000 and naturally limit its addressable market.
The R2 is intended to reach a broader audience by competing with popular EVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E.
To support that expansion, Rivian is increasing production at its Normal, Illinois plant while also preparing a future Georgia factory expected to support much higher production volume over time.
Rivian R2 Release Timeline
| Model | Price | Release |
|---|---|---|
| R2 Performance (Launch Package) | $57,990 | Spring 2026 |
| R2 Premium | $53,990 | Late 2026 |
| R2 Standard (RWD) | $48,490 | Early 2027 |
| Entry-level R2 | About $45,000 | Late 2027 |
Final Thoughts
The Rivian R2 could be one of the most important EV launches of the next two years. It gives Rivian a way to move from niche premium pricing into a much larger part of the market while still offering strong range, fast charging, and performance.
If Rivian can deliver these trims close to current expectations, the R2 could become one of the strongest alternatives to the Tesla Model Y in the mid-size EV segment.
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