Rivian has officially launched the R2, its midsize electric SUV, with initial availability limited to the Performance trim starting at $57,990. The launch configuration includes the Launch Package, a limited-production bundle adding exclusive features and early delivery priority.
The R2 Performance delivers 656 horsepower through a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. An 87.9 kWh battery pack provides up to 330 miles of EPA-estimated range. These specifications position the R2 Performance against premium electric SUVs from Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz in the $50,000 to $60,000 segment.
The Launch Package adds several exclusive elements unavailable on later production units. Buyers receive Lifetime Autonomy+, Rivian’s advanced driver assistance subscription, without ongoing fees. A package-specific key fob and unique exterior badging distinguish these early vehicles. The company has not disclosed how many Launch Package units will be produced.
Rivian plans to introduce additional R2 variants following this initial performance-focused launch. A standard dual-motor configuration is expected in early 2027, priced at $48,490 with 345 miles of range. The long-promised $45,000 single-motor variant will not arrive until late 2027, representing a significant delay from original projections.
The R2 shares design DNA with Rivian’s larger R1S but occupies a more compact footprint. The vehicle targets urban and suburban buyers who find the full-size R1S impractical for daily use. Despite the smaller dimensions, Rivian emphasises that the R2 maintains genuine off-road capability through adjustable air suspension and multiple drive modes.
Production is scheduled to begin in spring 2026 at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois, facility. The company has retooled this former Mitsubishi plant to handle R2 production alongside existing R1T and R1S manufacturing. Pre-order holders will receive configuration invitations based on reservation timestamp and geographic proximity to the service centre.
The $57,990 starting price excludes destination charges, which add $1,495 to the total transaction price. This brings the effective base price to $59,485 before options, taxes, or incentives. The vehicle remains eligible for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, subject to buyer income and vehicle price limitations.
Rivian’s pricing strategy has evolved significantly since the R2’s initial announcement. The company originally promoted a $45,000 starting price when revealing the vehicle in 2024. The decision to launch with a higher-priced performance variant reflects both market positioning and production realities. Manufacturing complexity and battery costs have prevented immediate delivery of the most affordable configuration.
The R2 enters a competitive segment where the Tesla Model Y dominates sales. Ford’s Mustang Mach-E, Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, and Kia’s EV6 provide additional competition. Rivian differentiates through design character, outdoor adventure positioning, and software features rather than pursuing direct price competition.
For Rivian, the R2 represents a critical volume opportunity. The company’s R1T and R1S have sold in limited quantities due to premium pricing. The R2’s lower entry point, even at $57,990, opens the brand to a substantially larger customer base.
