It looks like drivers’ fears have come true: the Rivian R2 is arriving with a higher price point than previously promised. But that’s not totally a bad thing.
Rivian previously stated that the long-awaited R2 would have a base price of $45,000, which appeared to be its main selling point against the Tesla Model Y. However, sharp-eyed car enthusiasts noticed earlier this month — a few days ahead of the official R2 reveal — that Rivian had taken that $45,000 starting price down from its website. At that point, many in the EV community assumed that Rivian was pulling a fast one like its competitor, Tesla, who has promised lower prices for its models in the past just to release them at a higher price while promising the initial price later on.
And wouldn’t you know: Rivian is attempting to emulate Tesla in more ways than one.
The Rivian R2 is $57,990 at launch, but EV fans may be tempted
On March 12th, Rivian officially revealed the R2, its smaller, more affordable model. It will arrive this spring with a $57,990 Performance Launch model. That’s over $10,000 more than the originally promised price point. But don’t worry, Rivian will offer the $45,000 base model at a later time.
While it’s not the promised release price, the Rivian R2 still seems very promising. And if you’re willing to wait for the Standard RWD’s release late 2027, you’re still getting a great deal for an electric SUV in this category. The R2 is essentially an R1S without the third row of seats, offering plenty of off-road capability and cabin comfort.
The Performance trim, the first to be released, will offer a wide range of driving modes, including Snow, All-Terrain, Rally, Soft Sand, and Sport. It also has 9.8 inches of ground clearance, semi-active suspension, and all-season wheels. The R2 has the looks to match its performance, essentially looking like a boxy, minimalist Subaru with wide, glowing eyes. And with Rivian claiming it can “tackle rough terrain comfortably,” maybe it deserves the “EV version of the Outback” award more than the Trailseeker.
For those who want an R2 for their weekend adventures, it doesn’t skimp on space despite losing a row. Its total enclosed storage is 90.1 cubic feet: you get 28.7 cubic feet of rear cargo room, increased to 79.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. It also has a frunk that’s more spacious than over EVs (and you don’t have to pay extra for it). With 40.4 inches of legroom and 40.4 inches of headroom, it offers a very spacious interior that can fit all your camping gear and make for a comfortable road trip.
Range anxiety won’t be a problem off-road, with the R2 Performance Launch model expected to deliver 330 miles. This makes it competitive with the Tesla Model Y, whose own Performance variant gets 306 miles.
There is also plenty of tech and features that make the R2 worth the launch price. Those who purchase the Performance Launch model will get Lifetime Autonomy+, an upcoming advanced driver-assistance system that can help you plan trips and offers hands-free driving, a tow package with 4,400 pounds of towing capacity, and the option to get it in Launch Green — although this option costs more. If you care about exclusive colors, however, it could be worth it.
Inside the cabin, Rivian has introduced new haptic halo dials on its steering wheel, “capable of scrolling, pushing, pulling, and tilting” to provide a physical feel alongside its plentiful digital software and screen. Along with new exterior colors, the interior features a new, upgraded feel with birch wood accents in its Black Crater Signature color, “inspired by the dynamic dark tones of volcanic rock.” You get heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a torch flashlight in the driver’s door. Dynamic Adventure Lighting and its extensive audio setup (nine speakers, two midwoofers, two subwoofers) will help set the mood on your trip.
Rivian R2 spec sheet
Here are the released details for the four announced trims we’re getting for the R2:
| Trim | Powertrain | Battery Capacity | Power | Torque | 0-60 MPH | Range | Starting MSRP | Release |
| Performance | Dual-Motor AWD | 87.9 kWh | 656 hp | 609 lb-ft | 3.6 sec | 330 miles (EPA est.) | $57,990 (Launch Package) | Spring 2026 (MY2027) |
| Premium | Dual-Motor AWD | 87.9 kWh | 450 hp | 537 lb-ft | 4.6 sec | 330 miles (EPA est.) | $53,990 | Late 2026 (MY2027) |
| Standard (Long Range) | RWD Long Range | 87.9 kWh | 350 hp | 355 lb-ft | 5.9 sec | 345 miles (Rivian est.) |
$48,490 | Early 2027 (MY2028) |
| Standard | RWD | TBD | 350 hp | 355 lb-ft | 5.9 sec | 275+ miles (Rivian est.) |
$45,000 | Late 2027 (MY2028) |
