2026 Rivian R2 First Review: Affordable, Practical, Awesome!

TL;DR

The Rivian R2 delivers R1S capability in a smaller, ~$45,000 package, earning a 70/100 Doug Score — best among all non-Rivian EVs.

Key Points

• 1.Size & Price: 186 inches long (15 inches shorter than R1S, similar to Tesla Model Y), ~$45,000 starting price vs. R1S's ~$80,000, two rows instead of three
• 2.Standout exterior features: Roll-down rear window in the tailgate, Rivian-logo side turn signal, a solvable maze inside the charge port door, and a generously sized front trunk
• 3.Performance: Launch edition produces 655 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque, hitting 0–60 mph in 3.6 seconds — Doug suspects this top trim will cost well above the $45K base
• 4.Driving feel: More athletic and dynamic than the heavier R1S, surprisingly precise steering, less body roll than expected, with 9.7 inches of ground clearance vs. Model Y's 6.6 inches
• 5.Interior highlights: Two glove boxes, tissue-box-sized pull-out drawer, climate controls on steering wheel discs, blind-spot camera in gauge cluster, and dual-level door panel storage front and rear
• 6.Infotainment: Large, responsive touchscreen with corner climate controls, 3D navigation, passenger-side volume control, and an overlay panel showing music and map simultaneously on any screen
• 7.Rear practicality: Surprisingly roomy back seat for a 6'4" adult, independently foldable center seat, under-floor hidden storage, and a household power outlet in the cargo area
• 8.Adventure accessories: Optional flat-sleep mattress fitting a 95th-percentile male, rooftop tent with USB-C ports and climate vents, exterior power adapter capable of inflating a bouncy house, and a projection screen