The 2027 Rivian R2 is shaping up to be the electric SUV that could take Rivian from a premium adventure-vehicle brand into a much broader part of the U.S. market. Unlike the larger R1S, the R2 is smaller, lighter and designed around a lower starting price while retaining Rivian’s emphasis on all-weather capability, useful storage and advanced software.
The R2 story is also more complicated than a typical model-year launch. Rivian began customer deliveries of the higher-performance R2 Performance in 2026, while the more affordable Standard versions are scheduled to arrive during 2027. Rivian currently lists the R2 Standard from $44,990, while the Premium starts at $53,990 and the Performance at $57,990 before applicable taxes, destination charges and fees.
For buyers interested specifically in the 2027 R2, the biggest attractions are its projected range of up to 345 miles in the long-range rear-wheel-drive version, available dual-motor all-wheel drive, up to 656 horsepower, a compact footprint and a technology package that includes hardware designed for Rivian’s expanding driver-assistance system.
2027 Rivian R2: Quick Answer
The R2 is a smaller electric SUV positioned below Rivian’s R1S. The U.S. lineup is being introduced in stages rather than arriving all at once.
| Specification | 2027 Rivian R2 |
|---|---|
| Vehicle type | Electric SUV |
| Main market covered | United States |
| Powertrain | Single- or dual-motor electric |
| Drive types | RWD and AWD |
| Maximum announced power | 656 hp |
| Maximum announced range | Up to 345 miles, depending on version |
| Starting price currently listed by Rivian | $44,990 |
| Premium starting price | $53,990 |
| Performance starting price | $57,990 |
| First 2027 Standard version | First half of 2027 |
| Additional lower-cost Standard version | Late 2027 |
| Charging port | NACS |
| DC fast charging | 10%-80% in under 30 minutes under stated conditions |
The figures above are for U.S.-market R2 vehicles. Rivian says some range figures are preliminary estimates rather than official EPA ratings, so buyers should pay attention to which version and certification status is being discussed.
What Is the Rivian R2?
The Rivian R2 is a midsize electric SUV designed to make the company’s products accessible to more buyers than the larger R1S and R1T.
Its basic formula is familiar from Rivian’s existing vehicles: an electric powertrain, upright SUV proportions, generous storage and software-heavy technology combined with genuine off-road capability. But the R2 is considerably smaller than the R1S.
Rivian lists the R2 at 185.9 inches long, 78.1 inches wide with its mirrors folded and 66.9 inches tall. Its 115.6-inch wheelbase is also substantially shorter than the R1S’s 121.1-inch wheelbase.
That smaller footprint matters. The R2 is intended to be easier to maneuver in cities while retaining enough ground clearance and approach and departure angles for recreational driving away from paved roads.
Rivian lists 9.6 inches of ground clearance, a 25-degree approach angle, a 26-degree departure angle and a 20.6-degree breakover angle.
2027 Rivian R2 Price
R2 pricing has evolved as Rivian moved from the original announcement toward production.
As of August 2026, Rivian’s current R2 website lists the Standard model at $44,990 for 2027. The same page lists the Premium at $53,990 and the Performance at $57,990. These are U.S. prices and do not include applicable taxes, destination charges and fees.
Rivian’s March 2026 announcement had described the first Standard RWD Long Range version as starting at $48,490, followed by an additional Standard version starting around $45,000 later in 2027. The company’s later product page now displays the lower $44,990 figure for the Standard. That makes the current Rivian website the better reference for today’s advertised starting price, while the earlier announcement helps explain the rollout strategy.
R2 Pricing by Version
R2 Performance: Starting at $57,990. Rivian introduced this version first, with deliveries beginning in spring 2026.
R2 Premium: Starting at $53,990 and scheduled for late 2026. It uses dual-motor all-wheel drive and is positioned between the Performance and Standard models.
R2 Standard: Currently listed by Rivian at $44,990 for 2027. The lower-cost Standard is intended to broaden the R2’s appeal significantly.
The final transaction price will be higher once destination charges, taxes, options and other applicable fees are included.
2027 Rivian R2 Launch and Availability
The R2 does not have a single launch date that applies to every version.
Rivian began production of the R2 in April 2026, describing that milestone as the final step before customer deliveries. The first customer deliveries subsequently began with the Performance model in June 2026.
For buyers waiting for the more affordable versions, the important dates are different.
Rivian says the Premium arrives in late 2026. The Standard RWD Long Range version is scheduled for the first half of 2027, while another lower-priced Standard version is planned for late 2027.
That means calling the R2 simply a “2027 launch” can be misleading. The model has already entered customer service with its Performance version, while the versions most relevant to the $45,000 price point are still part of the 2027 rollout.
2027 Rivian R2 Range
Range varies considerably by R2 configuration.
The R2 Performance and Premium are listed with an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles. The Standard RWD Long Range version is expected to reach up to 345 miles, according to Rivian’s estimate.
The additional lower-priced Standard model is expected to provide more than 275 miles of estimated range. Rivian has not provided the same level of final detail for that version as it has for the higher trims.
This distinction is important because the 345-mile figure should not be applied to every R2. It is associated with the Standard RWD Long Range configuration.
Rivian also explicitly notes that some range figures are preliminary estimates based on the EPA test cycle rather than finalized EPA values. Real-world range can vary with tires, drive modes, weather, HVAC use, accessories and other conditions.
R2 Performance and Powertrain
The R2 lineup gives buyers several approaches to electric performance.
The Performance model uses two motors and all-wheel drive. Rivian rates it at 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, with a claimed 0-60 mph time as quick as 3.6 seconds. Its listed range is up to 330 miles.
The Premium also uses dual-motor all-wheel drive, but its output is lower at 450 horsepower and 537 lb-ft of torque. Rivian quotes a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds and an EPA-estimated range of up to 330 miles.
The Standard RWD Long Range version uses a single motor driving the rear wheels. Rivian says it produces 350 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque, reaches 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and is expected to deliver up to 345 miles of range.
This makes the R2 lineup unusual in that the entry-oriented model is not simply a heavily de-rated version of the performance SUV. The rear-wheel-drive configuration is focused more heavily on efficiency and range.
Charging the Rivian R2
Charging is another important part of the R2 ownership proposition.
Every R2 has a NACS charge port, allowing compatibility with Tesla Superchargers in the United States and Canada. Rivian says R2 owners can access more than 21,000 Tesla Superchargers in those markets.
Rivian also says the R2 can add up to 150 miles of range in 15 minutes under suitable conditions. The company states that a DC fast charger can take the vehicle from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes. Actual charging performance depends on factors such as battery state of charge, temperature, charger capability and weather.
For long-distance travel, the combination of NACS compatibility and Rivian’s Adventure Network should make charging access less restrictive than it was for earlier generations of EVs that depended on a smaller charging ecosystem.
R2 Interior and Storage
The R2’s cabin follows Rivian’s minimalist design philosophy while focusing heavily on practical storage.
Rivian lists 90.1 cubic feet of total enclosed storage. The rear cargo area provides 28.7 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, increasing to 79.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
The vehicle also has two gloveboxes, fold-flat rear seats and a rear drop glass that can lower into the liftgate. That feature is particularly useful for carrying long items and gives the R2 a more open-air character without turning it into a traditional convertible.
Passenger space is also competitive for the R2’s footprint. Rivian lists 41.4 inches of first-row legroom and 40.4 inches in the second row. First-row headroom is 40.9 inches, while second-row headroom is 40.4 inches.
R2 Design and Off-Road Capability
The R2 carries obvious visual links to the R1S, but its smaller dimensions give it a more compact stance.
Rivian has designed the SUV around a balance of urban usability and outdoor capability. The 9.6 inches of ground clearance is notable for a vehicle in this size class, while the 25-degree approach angle and 26-degree departure angle are intended to help when driving over uneven terrain.
Wheel choices also affect the vehicle’s character. Rivian offers 19-inch all-season wheels, 20-inch all-season wheels, 20-inch all-terrain wheels and 21-inch all-season wheels depending on trim and configuration.
The Performance model can be equipped with 20-inch all-terrain wheels, giving buyers a more adventure-oriented setup than the road-focused configurations.
Technology and Driver Assistance
Technology is one of the areas where Rivian is trying to differentiate the R2 from conventional electric SUVs.
Rivian says R2 has approximately 200 sparse TOPS of edge AI computing capability for its infotainment system. That computing hardware is designed to support features such as Rivian Assistant and other software functions that can operate locally in the vehicle.
The R2 also includes hardware designed to support Rivian Autonomy+. The company describes the system as an assisted-driving technology rather than a replacement for an attentive driver.
Rivian has said R2 Performance Launch Package vehicles use a more advanced autonomy hardware configuration with cameras, radars and substantial onboard computing capability. Rivian is also developing LiDAR-equipped R2 vehicles as part of its longer-term autonomy strategy.
The important point for buyers is that these technologies should not be confused with fully autonomous driving. Rivian’s own documentation describes driver assistance as requiring the driver to remain attentive and in control.
R2 Software and Rivian Assistant
Rivian’s software strategy is a major part of the R2’s identity.
The company says R2’s infotainment computer can run Rivian Assistant locally, which can allow certain AI-related functions to operate without relying entirely on a cloud connection. Rivian has also described its broader software architecture as one designed to receive continuing improvements through software updates.
Rivian has been working toward additional hands-free and point-to-point driving capabilities, but these should be treated as evolving software features rather than guaranteed capabilities that make the R2 autonomous today.
Feature availability can also depend on hardware, software version, trim and market.
R2 Towing and Practicality
Despite its smaller size, the R2 retains useful utility.
The Standard configuration is listed with up to 3,500 pounds of towing capacity, while the Premium and Performance versions are listed at up to 4,400 pounds. Rivian lists payload capacity at 1,102 pounds for the Standard and 1,168 pounds for Premium and Performance.
Those numbers make the R2 more than a purely urban electric crossover. Buyers interested in small trailers, outdoor equipment or recreational gear will have a meaningful reason to consider it over some more conventional compact EVs.
Actual towing range will, however, be lower than the vehicle’s normal EPA or estimated range because towing adds weight and aerodynamic drag.
R2 Performance vs Premium vs Standard
The three main R2 versions serve different priorities.
R2 Performance is for buyers who want maximum acceleration and capability. Its 656-hp dual-motor AWD system and 3.6-second 0-60 mph claim make it the performance-focused version.
R2 Premium offers much of the same dual-motor architecture with less emphasis on outright acceleration. Its 450 horsepower and 330-mile EPA-estimated range make it a more balanced choice for buyers who want performance without paying for the top version.
R2 Standard is the version that could matter most to Rivian’s attempt to reach a larger audience. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration and lower starting price are designed to make the R2 more accessible, while the long-range version is expected to deliver up to 345 miles.
How Does the R2 Compare With the R1S?
The R2 is not simply a smaller R1S.
The R1S is significantly larger, with Rivian listing a 200.8-inch length compared with 185.9 inches for the R2. The R1S also has more total storage at 90.1 cubic feet versus the R2’s listed 90.1 cubic feet total enclosed storage in Rivian’s current comparison, although the R2’s cargo layout and dimensions are different.
The bigger difference is positioning. The R1S remains Rivian’s larger three-row SUV, while the R2 is designed around a smaller footprint and lower price.
For buyers who regularly need maximum passenger or cargo space, the R1S remains the more appropriate vehicle. For people who want Rivian design, software and adventure-oriented capability in a smaller package, the R2 is the more relevant option.
Is the 2027 Rivian R2 Coming to the U.S.?
Yes. The pricing and rollout discussed here are specifically for the United States.
Rivian’s March 2026 announcement explicitly stated that its R2 trim and pricing information applied to U.S.-market vehicles. The company said Canadian specifications, packages and pricing would be provided closer to that market’s launch.
The same caution applies to other international markets. The U.S. pricing, range figures, charging access and trim schedule should not automatically be treated as specifications for Europe, Australia, India, Japan or other markets.
What Buyers Should Know Before Ordering
The R2 looks increasingly important to Rivian, but buyers should pay close attention to the exact configuration.
The most affordable advertised price does not represent the same vehicle as the $57,990 Performance model. Range, drive system, towing capability, wheels, interior equipment and availability vary by trim.
It is also important to distinguish Rivian-estimated figures from official EPA figures. The company’s 345-mile Standard Long Range figure is identified as a Rivian estimate, while the 330-mile figures for Premium and Performance are presented as EPA-estimated range on Rivian’s current product information.
Finally, the R2 rollout is still being staged. The Performance has already reached customers, the Premium is scheduled for late 2026, and the more affordable Standard variants are planned for 2027.
2027 Rivian R2 Pros and Limitations
Pros
- Lower starting price than Rivian’s larger R1 vehicles
- Up to 345 miles of estimated range in the RWD Long Range version
- Available dual-motor all-wheel drive
- Up to 656 horsepower
- Strong towing capability for its size
- 9.6 inches of ground clearance
- Large and flexible storage area
- NACS charging port
- Access to Tesla Superchargers in the U.S. and Canada
- Advanced onboard computing and software architecture
Limitations
- The lowest-priced versions are not arriving until 2027
- Some range figures are still estimates
- Final pricing rises with options, destination charges and taxes
- Range will vary significantly with configuration and conditions
- Advanced driver assistance does not make the R2 a fully autonomous vehicle
- Availability and specifications outside North America remain less clearly defined
2027 Rivian R2: Final Thoughts
The 2027 Rivian R2 is arguably more important for Rivian’s future than its headline specifications suggest.
Its 656-hp Performance version gives the lineup an attention-grabbing flagship, but the more important models for mass-market expansion are the lower-priced Standard versions scheduled throughout 2027. A starting price currently listed at $44,990 puts the R2 much closer to mainstream electric SUVs than Rivian’s larger vehicles.
The R2 also avoids becoming just another compact EV. Rivian has combined useful cargo capacity, 9.6 inches of ground clearance, available all-wheel drive, substantial towing capability and adventure-focused design with an increasingly sophisticated software platform.
The biggest questions now concern how the lower-priced versions perform in everyday use, how real-world range compares with Rivian’s estimates and how quickly Rivian can expand R2 availability. Those answers will become clearer as the 2027 Standard models reach customers.
For now, the R2 stands out as Rivian’s clearest attempt to make its electric SUV formula accessible to a much larger group of buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2027 Rivian R2 launch?
The R2 is launching in stages. The Performance version began customer deliveries in 2026, Premium is scheduled for late 2026, the Standard RWD Long Range is planned for the first half of 2027, and another lower-priced Standard version is planned for late 2027.
How much does the 2027 Rivian R2 cost?
Rivian’s current U.S. website lists the R2 Standard from $44,990. The Premium starts at $53,990 and Performance starts at $57,990. Prices exclude applicable taxes, destination charges and fees.
How much range does the Rivian R2 have?
The Premium and Performance versions are listed with up to 330 miles of EPA-estimated range. The Standard RWD Long Range version is expected to deliver up to 345 miles, while the additional lower-priced Standard is expected to offer more than 275 miles.
How powerful is the Rivian R2?
The most powerful R2 Performance produces 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque. The Premium produces 450 horsepower, while the Standard RWD Long Range produces 350 horsepower.
Is the Rivian R2 all-wheel drive?
Not every R2 is all-wheel drive. Performance and Premium use dual-motor AWD, while the Standard RWD Long Range uses a single motor driving the rear wheels.
Does the Rivian R2 use NACS charging?
Yes. Rivian says every R2 has a NACS charge port and can access more than 21,000 Tesla Superchargers in the United States and Canada.
How fast can the Rivian R2 charge?
Rivian says the R2 can add up to 150 miles in 15 minutes and can charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes using a DC fast charger under stated conditions. Actual charging times vary with battery temperature, state of charge, charger capability and other conditions.
Is the Rivian R2 fully autonomous?
No. Rivian’s advanced driver-assistance systems are intended to assist the driver, not replace the driver’s responsibility. The company is continuing to develop additional hands-free and point-to-point driving capabilities.
Is the Rivian R2 coming outside the United States?
Rivian has said that the R2 pricing and trim information announced in 2026 applies to U.S.-market vehicles. Details for other markets are not necessarily the same and should be confirmed when Rivian announces regional specifications and pricing.
Sources & References
- Rivian R2 — Official U.S. product page
- Rivian — Say Hello to R2
- Rivian — Explore R2 from Every Angle
- Rivian — R2: Start of Production
- Rivian — A Closer Look: R2 Performance with Launch Package
- Rivian — R2: Path to Ownership
- Rivian — Wassym Bensaid Hosts R2 Software AMA
- TechCrunch — Rivian starts deliveries of its all-important R2 SUV
- Car and Driver — 2027 Rivian R2 Prices Make the New EV SUV Look Like a Sweet Deal