The Rivian R2 midsize electric vehicle has been identified as the most crucial vehicle in the company’s history. While Rivian’s earlier models, including the R1S and R1T, received praise, they struggled with profitability at their initial high price points. The R2 is intended to provide the cost efficiency and volume needed for Rivian to achieve financial stability. This vehicle is designed as a midsize electric SUV, directly targeting the market segment dominated by the Tesla Model Y, with a strategy focused on volume sales. Pricing for the R2 is set to start at $45,000 for the base model next year, while the tested performance trim was noted at $61,000.
Design and Interior Experience
The styling of the R2 maintains the recognizable, boxy aesthetic popular in the R1 models, but critics noted that the smaller dimensions and tighter proportions give the R2 a cleaner, more cohesive appearance. Inside, the cabin feels familiar to R1 owners, featuring high-resolution screens for both the dashboard cluster and the infotainment system. Despite being positioned below luxury brands like Mercedes or BMW, the fit and finish are described as premium, incorporating details such as soft-touch materials, real stitching, a distinctive denim-like fabric across the dash, and functional switchgear. Storage capacity is excellent, including a pull-out tray in the central console.
A notable improvement over the R1 is the second-row legroom, which is more generous due to the R2 eliminating the third row. The cabin features a spacious cargo hatch and a wide panoramic glass roof, all contributing to a remarkably quiet ride, even when navigating chaotic urban environments like New York City.
Performance and Handling Capabilities
The Performance trim level is equipped with dual motors, generating 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque. This power translates into an impressive 0-to-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds. The power delivery is described as immediate, smooth, and effortless. However, the standout feature is the suspension system. Instead of air suspension, the R2 utilizes semiactive adaptive damping, which can be adjusted through various drive modes. The vehicle handles exceptionally well, offering a composed, planted ride with minimal body roll. It demonstrates excellent capability over uneven surfaces, absorbing bumps and ruts without excessive bouncing.
For varied driving conditions, the R2 offers multiple modes: Sport, Rally, Snow, and Soft Sand for off-pavement use. Regarding regenerative braking, the reviewer recommended using standard or low settings, advising caution with high settings during stop-and-go driving. The R2 was found to be better suited for on-road use compared to the more rugged R1S.
Range, Charging, and Drawbacks
The R2 is rated by the EPA for a range of 330 miles using its 88-kWh battery, achieving a combined efficiency of 105 MPGe. Real-world estimates suggest a range between 250 and 300 miles, depending on external factors like temperature and highway speed. The vehicle features a NACS port, granting access to the Tesla Supercharger network, with the capability to charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes via DC fast charging.
Despite its strengths, the R2 has significant software limitations. Notably, it does not support Apple CarPlay. While the system includes native Spotify and Google Maps, it lacks Waze, meaning drivers lose access to valuable crowd-sourced alerts regarding speed cameras or police presence. Furthermore, the process for using Bluetooth phone integration—such as making calls or sending text messages—was described as complicated compared to systems running CarPlay.
Overall Assessment
Overall, the R2 offers a compelling package that addresses many of the concerns surrounding Rivian’s previous models. Although the company has faced historical challenges with build quality, the product’s overall appeal is high. With the exception of the lack of Apple CarPlay, the R2 was deemed a highly competitive EV SUV, making it difficult to compare favorably to rivals in the current market.
