Reading view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.

Rivian’s R2 Performance Just Out-Ranged The Tesla Model Y, And It Weighs Nearly 800 lbs More

  • The R2 Performance will have an EPA range of up to 335 miles.
  • By comparison, the Tesla Model Y Performance has a 306-mile range.
  • The R2’s dual electric motors offer a combined 656 hp and 609 lb-ft.

We already had a solid picture of the new Rivian R2, but fresh EPA testing data fills in a few remaining gaps. Positioned below the R1S in price yet still focused on performance and practicality, the all-electric R2 is shaping up to be a crucial model for the brand.

According to internal reports shared on the Rivian Forums, the range-topping Performance variant will use an 86.8 kWh usable battery pack and come with a choice of 20-inch or 21-inch wheels. Wheel and tire setup makes a noticeable difference. Models fitted with 20-inch wheels and all-terrain rubber are rated at up to 314 miles (505 km), while versions on 21-inch, road-focused tires stretch that to 335 miles (539 km).

Read: Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

While the R2 looks quite boxy, it has a better range than the Tesla Model Y Performance, which comes with an EPA-estimated range of 306 miles (492 km). The Tesla, however, is significantly lighter, weighing 4,466 lbs (2,025 kg), making it 784 lbs (356 kg) lighter than the R2 Performance at 5,250 lbs (2,381 kg) when equipped with 21-inch wheels.

\\\\\\

The published documents also reveal that Rivian has developed a proprietary heat pump for the R2, aimed at improving cabin cooling in hot weather while reducing NVH levels. It should also perform better in cold climates, thanks to a high-voltage coolant heater. The R2 will also feature an integrated battery health monitoring system.

There’s More To Come

The only R2 variant referenced in the EPA tests is the $57,990 Performance, which will be the first to launch. Later this year, Rivian plans to introduce the more affordable R2 Premium, starting at $53,990. It’s expected to produce 450 hp and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm), compared to the Performance model’s 656 hp and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm). There’s no official range estimate yet, though it should exceed that of the R2 Performance.

A more accessible R2 Standard is also scheduled for 2027. It will deliver 350 hp and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm), with early estimates pointing to a 345-mile (555 km) range. The lineup is expected to be completed in late 2027 with an entry-level R2 featuring a smaller battery, believed to offer around 275 miles (443 km) of range.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Photos Rivian

Rivian R2 And Jeep Recon Solve The Same Problem, But Which One Solves It For You?

  • Rivian and Jeep are launching similar electric SUVs this year.
  • The R2 is cheaper than the Recon and offers far more range.
  • Both have similar outputs at launch and other versions are coming.

Rivian introduced the highly anticipated R2 last week and a lot of people got sticker shock. While the company had promised a starting price of around $45,000, the launch model costs $57,990.

Price, Performance And Range

That’s significantly more expensive than expected, but it looks like a bargain compared to the 2026 Jeep Recon. It starts at $65,000 and has a 100 kWh battery pack that feeds a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 650 hp (485 kW / 659 PS) and 620 lb-ft (840 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 3.6 seconds and travel up to 230 miles (370 km) on a single charge in Moab trim.

More: Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

The R2, on the other hand, has an 87.9 kWh battery and a dual-motor all-wheel drive system with 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. Those numbers are nearly identical to the Jeep and so is the 0–60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 3.6 seconds.

The models also offer a similar recharging experience as the Recon’s battery goes from 5-80% in around 28 minutes, while the R2 goes from 10-80% in as little as 29 minutes. However, there’s a big difference as the R2 Performance has 330 miles (531 km) of range. That’s 100 miles (161 km) more than the Recon Moab and 80 miles (129 km) more than future versions of the SUV.

\\\\\\\\\\\

Off-Road Chops

Speaking of capability, the Recon Moab has 9.1 inches (231 mm) of ground clearance as well as approach, departure, and breakover angles of 33.8, 33.1, and 23.3 degrees. While the R2 sits higher off the ground at 9.6 inches (244 mm), it offers far less impressive angles of 25, 26, and 20.6 degrees. The Jeep rides on 18-inch wheels wrapped in 33-inch tires, while the Rivian has 21-inch wheels and 32-inch rubber.

Size And Cargo Space

In terms of size, the Recon measures 193.3 inches (4,911 mm) long, 87.4 inches (2,221 mm) wide, and 73.8 inches (1,875 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 112.9 inches (2,868 mm). This means it’s 7.4 inches (188 mm) longer than the R2, despite having a 2.7-inch (69 mm) shorter wheelbase.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Despite being smaller, the Rivian has more cargo space thanks to a 5.2 cubic foot (147 liter) frunk and a rear cargo compartment that can hold 79.4 cubic feet (2,248 liters) of luggage. The Recon, on the other hand, has a smaller 3 cubic foot (85 liter) frunk and a boot that holds 65.9 cubic feet (1,866 liters) of gear.

Equipment

While the R2 seems to be wiping the floor with the Recon, Jeep has a few tricks up its sleeve. The most notable is doors, rear quarter glass, and swing gate glass that can be removed without tools. This open air experience can further be enhanced by an optional Sky one-touch power top. That sounds a lot more fun than the R2, which has a drop down rear window and a panoramic glass roof.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Rivian hasn’t said much about the crossover’s cabin, but buyers will find a Black Crater Signature interior with Birch wood trim. They’re joined by 12-way power front seats with heating and ventilation as well as heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel. Other highlights include a nine-speaker premium audio system and a flashlight integrated into the driver’s door.

The Recon’s interior looks a little less glamorous, but it has a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.5-inch infotainment system. They’re joined by Capri leatherette front seats with heating and eight-way power adjustment. Other highlights include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, ambient lighting, a wireless smartphone charger, and an 11-speaker Alpine premium audio system.

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

Customers will also be able to get a Comfort Package, which includes ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a digital rearview mirror, and a passenger camera.

With all that being said, which one interests you the most?

 Rivian R2 And Jeep Recon Solve The Same Problem, But Which One Solves It For You?

Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

  • Rivian’s R2 packs up to 656 hp and hits 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.
  • The electric crossover can travel up to 330 miles per charge.
  • Multiple trims launch first, with a cheaper version due in 2027.

Following yesterday’s leak, Rivian has officially introduced the R2. It arrives this spring with a $57,990 price tag, although an entry-level model is slated to arrive in late 2027 and cost around $45,000.

The R2 rides on an all-new platform and is being launched in Performance guise, which has a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to accelerate from 0–60 mph (0-96 km/h) in as little as 3.6 seconds.

More: Rivian Is Killing Off The Entry-Level R1 Just Before R2 Launch

The crossover is said to have a 87.9 kWh battery pack, which enables it to have a range of up to 330 miles (531 km). When the battery is low, it can reportedly go from a 10-80% charge in as little as 29 minutes. Other highlights include a semi-active suspension and eight drive modes known as All-Purpose, All-Terrain, Conserve, Launch, Rally, Snow, Soft Sand, and Sport.

The model comes standard with an Esker Silver exterior that sports 21-inch Liquid Tungsten wheels as well as Compass Yellow brake calipers and exterior badging. They’re joined by Matrix LED headlights, integrated tow hooks, and a rear liftgate with drop down glass.

Moving inside, there’s a Black Crater Signature interior with Birch wood trim. Buyers will also find 12-way power front seats with heating and ventilation. They’re joined by heated rear seats as well as a heated steering wheel. Other niceties include a nine-speaker premium audio system and a flashlight integrated into the driver’s door.

An assortment of options will be available including Borealis, Catalina Cove, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, and Midnight paint jobs. They can be paired with black 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. Customers can also get a Coastal Cloud Signature interior, a 4,400 lb (1,996 kg) towing package, and an Autonomy+ subscription that offers monthly or one-time options.

Early models come with a limited edition Launch Package that includes a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+ as well as the aforementioned towing package. There’s also a green anodized key fob and an exclusive Launch Green exterior color, but that’ll cost you extra.

R2 Premium

\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\

The $53,990 R2 Premium will follow later this year with a downgraded all-wheel drive system producing 450 hp (356 kW / 456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque. This enables the crossover to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.6 seconds and travel up to 330 miles (531 km) on a single charge.

Equipment largely echoes the Performance variant, but the Premium rides on smaller 20-inch wheels with a Bicolor Carbon finish. Drivers also have to make do with five drive modes known as All-Purpose, All-Terrain, Conserve, Sport, and Snow.

R2 Standard Long Range

\\\\\\\\\\\\

The R2 Standard Long Range will arrive in the first half of 2027 and cost $48,490. It comes standard with a rear-mounted motor producing 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm) of torque. This enables the model to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.9 seconds and have a Rivian-estimated range of up to 345 miles (555 km).

However, customers can get an optional all-wheel drive system that produces 450 hp (356 kW / 456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque. It echoes the R2 Premium, so expect a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 4.6 seconds and a reduced range of 330 miles (531 km).

\\\\\\\

In order to achieve the lower price tag, a number of features have been dropped. This appears to include the fancy lighting system, tow hooks, and drop down rear window. The model also rides on smaller 19-inch wheels.

The cuts continue inside with a cheaper Black Crater interior sporting a basic five-speaker audio system. The front passenger seat also gets downgraded to 8-way power adjustment, while there’s only heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. Buyers also lose the flashlight and All-Terrain drive mode.

R2 Standard Short Range

Rivian’s much-hyped entry-level model is coming in late 2027 and it will start “around $45,000.” The company isn’t saying much about it, but promised a range in excess of 275 miles (443 km).

Odds And Ends

\\\\\\

While Rivian hasn’t released full details, the R2 appears to be surprisingly spacious as there’s 40.4 inches (1,026 mm) of rear-seat legroom as well as 28.7 cubic feet (813 liters) of cargo space. That expands to 79.4 cubic feet (2,248 liters) by folding the rear seats down. Speaking of space, the model has dual glove boxes and a frunk that provides 5.2 cubic feet (147 liters) of room.

Rivian also touched on capability as the R2 has 9.6 inches (244 mm) of ground clearance as well as approach, departure, and breakover angles of 25°, 26°, and 20.6° respectively. The model also has 32-inch tires and is nearly 2,000 lbs (907 kg) lighter than the R1.

 Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

Rounding out the highlights are a panoramic glass roof, digital key technology, and a “Haptic Halo” steering wheel with two large scroll wheels. The R2 also has an NACS port as well as a “Field Outlet” that transforms the charging port into a power station with two 120V outlets.

Rivian is currently accepting reservations for a $100 refundable deposit.

 Rivian’s Most Affordable Model Arrives First In Its Most Expensive Form

Rivian R2 Starts At $57,990, But Cheaper Versions Are Still Coming

  • Details about the Rivian R2 have leaked ahead of its debut.
  • Launch model starts at $57,990, and offers 330 miles of range.
  • Affordable variants will follow, including a base model for $45K.

Rivian is gearing up to introduce the highly anticipated R2, but waiting is so overrated. Arstechnica knows that feeling all too well as they jumped the gun and published full details of the crossover a day early.

While the article was quickly removed, the internet never forgets and it was archived for posterity. Thanks to this, we know virtually everything about the upcoming model.

More: Rivian Is Killing Off The Entry-Level R1 Just Before R2 Launch

Set to arrive this spring, the R2 will be launched in Performance guise that starts at $57,990 before a $1,495 destination fee. The range-topping model reportedly has a 87.9 kWh battery pack, which powers a dual-motor all-wheel drive system producing 656 hp (489 kW / 665 PS) and 609 lb-ft (825 Nm) of torque.

The R2 Performance is said to have a semi-active suspension and a range of up to 330 miles (531 km). We can also expect a fast charging capability that will take the battery from 10-80% in as little as 29 minutes.

\\\\\\\\

In terms of equipment, we can expect a stylish interior with birch wood trim as well as heated and ventilated front seats. The rear seats are also heated, while other highlights include a nine-speaker audio system and a flashlight that’s integrated into the front door. They’re joined by matrix LED headlights and 21-inch alloy wheels.

Options include the company’s recently announced Autonomy+ semi-autonomous driving subscription and a tow package that enables the model to haul up to 4,400 lbs (1,996 kg).

R2 Premium

 Rivian R2 Starts At $57,990, But Cheaper Versions Are Still Coming

A more affordable R2 Premium is scheduled to arrive later this year for $53,990. Its powertrain largely echoes the Performance variant, but it has weaker motors producing 450 hp (356 kW /  456 PS) and 537 lb-ft (727 Nm) of torque.

Those aren’t the only tradeoffs as the model reportedly eschews the fancy suspension and rides on smaller 20-inch wheels. Buyers will also find three fewer drive modes.

R2 Standard

 Rivian R2 Starts At $57,990, But Cheaper Versions Are Still Coming

If that’s still too pricey, you can hold off until the R2 Standard arrives in 2027. It retains the 87.9 kWh battery, but it’s paired to a rear-mounted motor producing 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) and 355 lb-ft (481 Nm) of torque. This helps the model to be slightly more efficient as the range climbs to 345 miles (555 km).

The equipment list gets shorter as there’s a basic five-speaker audio system, heated front seats, and an “all-black” interior. The drop-down rear window is also absent, while the crossover is shod in smaller 19-inch wheels.

The base R2 is set to arrive in late 2027 with a smaller battery that provides around 265 miles (426 km) of range. Little else is known about this variant, but it’ll cost $45,000.

Other Details

 Rivian R2 Starts At $57,990, But Cheaper Versions Are Still Coming

Trims aside, the model measures 185.9 inches (4,722 mm) long, 78.1 inches (1,984 mm) wide, and 66.9 inches (1,699 mm) tall with a wheelbase that spans 115.6 inches (2,936 mm). The R2 is also said to have up to 9.6 inches (244 mm) of ground clearance.

Other highlights include a NACS charging port and a cargo capacity of up to 79.4 cubic feet (2,248 liters). However, that falls to 28.7 cubic feet (813 liters) with the rear seats up.

A separate leak also suggested the model will be offered in eight colors known as Borealis, Catalina Cove, Esker Silver, Forest Green, Glacier White, Half Moon Grey, Launch Green, and Midnight.

 Rivian R2 Starts At $57,990, But Cheaper Versions Are Still Coming
Photos Rivian
❌