TSLA354.080-22.285%
GM87.7600.54%
F14.6200.21%
RIVN15.740-0.17%
CYD37.430-0.24%
HMC32.670-0.37%
TM197.110-2.76%
CVNA74.5901.16%
PAG219.7700.15%
LAD386.8107.83%
AN212.3605.18%
GPI300.76016.43%
ABG217.2601.85%
SAH81.0001.58%
TSLA354.080-22.285%
GM87.7600.54%
F14.6200.21%
RIVN15.740-0.17%
CYD37.430-0.24%
HMC32.670-0.37%
TM197.110-2.76%
CVNA74.5901.16%
PAG219.7700.15%
LAD386.8107.83%
AN212.3605.18%
GPI300.76016.43%
ABG217.2601.85%
SAH81.0001.58%
TSLA354.080-22.285%
GM87.7600.54%
F14.6200.21%
RIVN15.740-0.17%
CYD37.430-0.24%
HMC32.670-0.37%
TM197.110-2.76%
CVNA74.5901.16%
PAG219.7700.15%
LAD386.8107.83%
AN212.3605.18%
GPI300.76016.43%
ABG217.2601.85%
SAH81.0001.58%

Rivian announces R2 compact electric SUV aimed at volume sales

Rivian unveils the R2 compact electric SUV priced from $46,495 with up to 340 miles of range as the automaker targets higher EV sales volume.

Rivian unveils R2 031326

Image source: Rivian

On the Dash:

  • Rivian’s R2 compact SUV launches with pricing from $46,495 to $59,485 and up to 345 miles of range.
  • Performance models deliver up to 656 hp, 609 lb-ft of torque and a 0–60 mph time of 3.6 seconds.
  • The R2 will compete directly with compact EV SUVs such as the Tesla Model Y, Cadillac Optiq and Audi Q4 e-tron.

Rivian introduced the R2 compact electric SUV, a new entry-level model designed to expand the brand’s reach into the high-volume compact SUV segment.

Pricing ranges from $46,495 for a Standard rear-wheel-drive model to $59,485 for the all-wheel-drive Launch edition that will be first to arrive in spring 2026. The R2 builds on the design and technology of Rivian’s existing lineup, including the Rivian R1T and Rivian R1S, but introduces a smaller platform aimed at broader adoption.

Sign up for CBT News’ daily newsletter and get the latest industry stories delivered straight to your inbox

Built on a new midsize unibody architecture, the five-passenger SUV is about 2,000 pounds lighter than the R1 models. It offers 9.6 inches of ground clearance, along with a 25-degree approach angle and a 26-degree departure angle. The vehicle will be assembled in Normal, Illinois.

The R2 lineup will eventually include several trims. The Performance model, priced at $57,990 excluding a $1,495 destination charge, delivers 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque with an estimated 330 miles of range and a 0–60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. The Premium model, priced at $53,990, will offer 450 horsepower, 537 pound-feet of torque and about 330 miles of range.

Two rear-wheel-drive Standard variants will follow. One arriving early in 2027 will deliver 350 horsepower, 355 pound-feet of torque and up to 345 miles of range. A base version priced at about $45,000 will be offered later with more than 275 miles of range.

The R2 will compete with compact electric SUVs including the Tesla Model Y, Cadillac Optiq, Audi Q4 e-tron, Mercedes-Benz EQB, Ford Mustang Mach-E and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Key features include semi-active suspension, a 4,400-pound towing capacity, hands-free driving capability and a 5.2-cubic-foot front trunk. Rivian will offer its Autonomy+ hands-free driving system for $49.99 per month or a one-time purchase of $2,500, with a 60-day free trial included.

The R2 represents a critical step for Rivian as it seeks higher production volumes and broader market appeal beyond its higher-priced vehicles.

More from Industry News
Volkswagen approves plan to cut 100,000 jobs and slash model lineup

Volkswagen approves plan to cut 100,000 jobs and slash model lineup

- September 4, 2026
On the Dash: Volkswagen doubles its previously announced job cuts to about 100,000 positions worldwide and plans to cut model-lineup complexity by roughly 75% by 2035. Four German plants, Emden,...
Ford Super Duty production hits 20-year high as it recovers from supplier shortages

Ford Super Duty production hits 20-year high as it recovers from supplier shortages

- September 3, 2026
On the Dash: Super Duty production topped 39,000 units in August, Ford's best month since March 2006. F-150 output reached its highest level since August 2024 as aluminum supply normalized. ...
Volkswagen taps Audi sales chief to head North America amid sales slump

Volkswagen taps Audi sales chief to head North America amid sales slump

- September 3, 2026
On the Dash: Volkswagen is putting greater focus on U.S. sales and profitability as weakness in China and Europe adds pressure. Dealers face a shifting product strategy, including the upcoming...
Hyundai plans international expansion of Amazon Autos as early as 2027

Hyundai plans international expansion of Amazon Autos as early as 2027

- September 2, 2026
On the Dash: Hyundai expects Amazon Autos to expand internationally as early as 2027, creating a new digital retail channel for dealers. Used and certified pre-owned vehicles are already...
CBT News
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.