Rivian has officially revealed its all-electric SUV, the R2, which will go into production in 2026 at the company’s factory in Normal, Illinois. The R2 is the third passenger EV from Rivian, following the R1S and R1T, with more models like the R3 and R3X compact crossovers in the works. The R2’s mid-size shape, range, and price could potentially turn Rivian into a volume manufacturer. The R2 will also be assembled in Rivian’s upcoming factory in Georgia in addition to the Illinois facility. Its comparison to other electric and internal-combustion models like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E, as well as off-road vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco, is explored to see how it stacks up against competition.
The Rivian R2’s dimensions, including its length, width, height, wheelbase, ground clearance, and approach and departure angles are compared to other models like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The R2 is similar in size to these mid-size electric crossovers, with the Chevrolet Blazer EV being the largest battery-powered model in the mix. The R2 is highlighted for having approach and departure angles stated by the manufacturer, indicating its potential for off-road capability.
Details on the battery, driving range, and charging speeds of the Rivian R2 are provided, with a driving range of over 300 miles on a full charge mentioned during the launch event. The R2 is said to be equipped with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charging connector, allowing it to use the Tesla Supercharger network without an adapter. Performance stats such as acceleration times, top speed, electric motors, and peak power are compared to other models, with the R2 being the fastest in acceleration and the only one available with a tri-motor setup in the list.
Pricing information for the Rivian R2, starting at around $45,000, is compared to its electric rivals like the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Ford Mustang Mach-E. The potential eligibility for the $7,500 EV tax credit for the R2, similar to the Tesla Model Y and Chevrolet Blazer EV, is mentioned as a factor that could lower the starting price. Features of the R2, such as its coil and spring suspension, digital screens, hidden flashlight, front trunk, rear quarter windows, foldable seats, and accessory mounts, are detailed. Safety assist systems and driving assistants of other models like Tesla, Chevrolet, Hyundai, and Ford, are compared to what might be available in the Rivian R2.
Overall, the detailed comparison of the Rivian R2 to its competitors in terms of dimensions, battery, range, charging speeds, performance, price, and features provides insight into how the mid-size all-electric SUV stacks up in the market. With production set for 2026, the R2 has the potential to compete with well-known electric crossovers and internal-combustion adventure vehicles, appealing to buyers looking for a mix of range, capability, and price in an EV. Updates to the R2 and further details on its specs are expected as Rivian approaches the start of manufacturing.
