Rivian's adventurous ethos has been downsized from the larger R1S SUV to the more compact and affordable R2 SUV. Starting at nearly half the price of its big brother, the R2 still manages to offer a premium package with a driving range as high as 345 miles per charge—and reasonable off-roading abilities to go with it.
Single- and dual-motor powertrains are available, with varying levels of performance. Inside, the R2's passenger space is generous for this class, offering more rear-seat room than rivals such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E and the Tesla Model Y. Tech is also a high point, with intuitive infotainment software, clever scroll wheels on the steering wheel, and an available hands-free driving feature.
View Price on AmazonExpert Tip: While the R2 still offers plenty of off-road capability, those looking to venture further off the beaten path should still consider the R1S, which comes with more terrain-conquering equipment—if its far higher price tag doesn't put you off. The R2's least-expensive Standard RWD trim joins the lineup this year. Standard models come with a 350-hp single-motor rear-wheel drive setup and a smaller battery pack that's estimated to deliver up to 275 miles per charge; the Standard can be had with a Long Range battery pack and dual motors making 450 horsepower as well.
Three different electric powertrain setups are available in the R2. The single-motor Standard model comes with one 350-hp electric motor driving the rear wheels, but a 450-hp dual-motor powertrain is optional on that trim. The Premium and Performance trims get the dual-motor setup as standard, and it makes 450 horsepower in the former and 656 horsepower in the latter.
When we took a drive in the Performance Launch Edition, we noted a refined ride, confident handling, and quick acceleration. Solid off-road abilities are baked in, but the R2 does not come with locking differentials or more advanced all-terrain gear, so it's not likely to be as capable off-road as the larger R1S.
In Comparison: If Rivian's claimed 60 mph time can be replicated in our testing, it will put the R2 Performance smack in between the Tesla Model Y Premium AWD (3.9 seconds) and the Model Y Performance (3.3 seconds). With the optional Tow package, the R2 can pull up to 4400 pounds, although doing so will significantly reduce driving range.
Two different battery packs are available in the R2, and Rivian says the longest-range R2 will be the Standard single-motor variant with the Long Range pack. That model is estimated to deliver up to 345 miles of range; with the smaller pack, the estimate drops to 275 miles. The Premium and Performance models with the dual-motor powertrain are estimated at 330 miles per charge.
Rivian hasn't released specs on the R2's charging system yet, but the company estimates it can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes on a DC fast charger. The EPA hasn't released fuel economy estimates for the 2028 R2 yet, but we estimate that those numbers should come in at around 100 MPGe city and 85 MPGe highway.
Source: caranddriver.com
