Rivian R2: 656 hp, 330 miles of range, and the new challenge to electric rivals

Rivian launches the R2, a compact SUV with 656 hp in the Performance version, up to 330 miles of range, and Premium/Standard options, expanding competition.

Rivian is expanding its lineup with the R2, a compact electric SUV developed to compete in an increasingly contested segment, challenging rivals like the Model Y with a proposition that combines performance, range, and technology.

Cutting-edge performance even in the launch version

The entry-level version, called R2 Performance, features dual motors, all-wheel drive, and 656 hp of power with 609 lb-ft of torque. The 0 to 60 mph acceleration is announced as "up to 3.6 seconds," placing the model among the fastest in the segment.

• Motor: Dual Motor AWD
• Power: 656 hp
• Torque: 609 lb-ft
• Acceleration 0–60 mph: up to 3.6 seconds

The estimated range for the R2 Performance is around 330 miles, with a generous list of premium features such as heated/ventilated seats, 21-inch wheels, yellow-finished brake calipers, and semi-active suspension, aiming for comfort and refinement.

Off-road capability and versatility

The setup offers a towing capacity of up to 4,400 pounds with the corresponding package. The R2 has up to 9.6 inches of ground clearance, with approach angles of 25° and departure angles of 26°. Among the eight driving modes, three are exclusive to the Performance: Launch, Soft Sand, and Rally.

It is important to note that the R1S remains Rivian's off-road model. It is not yet clear if the R2 will have locking differentials or the possibility of the much-discussed “tank turn,” present in the R1S, in future editions.

Pricing, versions, and range

Launch prices start at $57,990 for the R2 Performance (excluding shipping and taxes). The R2 Premium is $53,990, while the R2 Standard starts at $48,490. Rivian also signaled an additional version of the R2 Standard to arrive in 2027 for around $45,000.

In terms of range, the R2 Standard Long Range is estimated at 345 miles, while the Premium and Performance variants are around 330 miles. Regarding drivetrain, the R2 Standard can come with rear-wheel drive (Single Motor) rated at 350 hp or the Dual Motor configuration of up to 450 hp, maintaining the towing capacity of up to 4,400 lb with the appropriate package.

Even with the changing landscape of incentives and tariffs, Rivian indicates that the $45,000 base price for the entry model may still depend on future macroeconomic and regulatory conditions.

Onboard technology

Inside, the R2 features the Haptic Halo steering wheel design, with buttons integrated into the rim. The Rivian Assistant, the onboard AI assistant, is capable of learning driver habits and adapting, with a promise to evolve into autonomous driving features in the future. The architecture is already prepared to support Level 4 autonomous driving, should regulatory and hardware evolution allow.

In summary, the R2 emerges as Rivian's strategic bet to expand its presence in the electric SUV segment, seeking to balance power, range, and technology to confront rivals like Tesla and other players.

Which version would you choose? The performance of the R2 Performance with 656 hp or the range of the R2 Standard Long Range? Leave your opinion in the comments below.