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Rivian Unveils Pricing and Range for Highly Anticipated R2 SUV
The new R2 model aims to compete with Tesla's crossover lineup, but at a higher price point.
Mar. 18, 2026 at 9:10am
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Rivian has announced the pricing and range details for its upcoming R2 SUV, a five-seat electric vehicle meant to compete with crossover models like the Tesla Model Y. The R2 will start at $58,000 for the performance version with 330 miles of range, launching in spring 2026. A premium all-wheel drive model with 330 miles of range will follow in late 2026 for $54,000, while a standard rear-wheel drive version with 345 miles of range is expected in 2027 for $48,500. The R2 is a key product for Rivian as it aims to expand beyond its initial R1T pickup and R1S SUV models.
Why it matters
The R2 represents Rivian's attempt to reach a broader consumer market with a more affordable electric SUV option. However, the pricing is higher than the $45,000 target Rivian had previously promised, likely due to rising costs and the loss of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit. The R2's performance and off-road capabilities may help it stand out, but it will face stiff competition from established players like Tesla, Ford, and others in the crowded crossover EV segment.
The details
Rivian had originally targeted a $45,000 starting price for the R2, but has since removed that benchmark from its website. The performance version launching first will start at $58,000, followed by a $54,000 premium all-wheel drive model and a $48,500 standard rear-wheel drive version. All R2 trims will offer over 300 miles of range, with the standard model topping out at 345 miles. Rivian aims to deliver 20,000 to 25,000 R2s in the first six months of production, as part of a total 62,000 to 67,000 deliveries planned for 2026.
- Rivian will begin delivering the performance R2 in spring 2026.
- The premium all-wheel drive R2 will launch in late 2026.
- The standard rear-wheel drive R2 with 345 miles of range is expected in 2027.
The players
Rivian
An American autonomous driving company and a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.
Tesla Model Y
A popular electric crossover SUV produced by Tesla, one of Rivian's main competitors in the EV market.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident
The takeaway
The Rivian R2 represents the company's bid to expand beyond its initial high-end models and compete in the mainstream crossover EV market. However, its higher-than-expected pricing may make it a tougher sell against established players like Tesla, especially as a wave of used EVs hits the market in the coming years.
