Rivian is quietly reshaping its future with two new models ready to takeover the streets that are aimed for wider audience. The R2 and the smaller R3/R3X which are new models in Rivians lineup, promise to deliver Rivian’s signature performance, paired with a familiar design language, while making adventure-ready EVs more affordable than ever before.
While both models are still some calls away from appearing in dealerships, they have already raised an important question among its enthusiasts: which of these new Rivians will make the most sense for everyday drivers and outdoor enthusiasts alike?
Starting with the upcoming 2026 Rivian R2, it’s a midsize SUV with a seating arrangement for up to five passengers. Designed for both daily use and weekend adventure rides, the 2026 R2 comes in at a significantly lower price point than the flagship Model the R1. Its design closely mirrors Rivian’s larger R1 models, but with a more compact footprint and a lower starting price.
A pricing comparison between the 2026 Rivian R1 and the upcoming R2 highlights a substantial gap. The R1S starts at $78,885 and can climb to $127,885, while the Rivian R2 is expected to start at around $45,000 and goes higher to near $55,000.
Inside, the R2 features a two-row cabin that accommodates up to five passengers, with a cargo area positioned behind the second row. The dashboard is dominated by a 15.6-inch infotainment display. Like many new EVs, the infotainment system is responsible for handling vehicle controls such as steering wheel and mirror adjustments, among other minor controls.
For outdoor adventures, the R2 offers an optional rooftop tent known as the Rivian Treehouse. It includes a heated mattress, a content-streaming screen, and an integrated lighting system. Additional accessories include a bike rack and a compact travel kitchen.
The 2027 Rivian R3 on the other end of the lineup, the Rivian R3 and performance-focused R3X are expected to arrive as 2027 models positioned as compact crossovers. The details remain limited at this stage, but pricing is expected to undercut the R2, placing it as the most affordable electric vehicle in Rivian’s lineup.
Both the R2 and R3 are built on the same midsize platform and will offer two battery options: one being a standard pack and the other a larger battery that’s capable of delivering over 300 miles of range on a single charge. High-performance variants are expected to achieve 0–60 mph times in under three seconds.
The platform will support three motor configurations starting of with single-motor and a rear-wheel drive, secondly a dual-motor with all-wheel drive Powetrain, and lastly a a tri-motor setup featuring two rear motors and one at the front which we expect to be of the high-performance trim. DC fast charging will be supported via native NACS compatibility and CCS using an adapter, with charging from 10 to 80 percent taking under 30 minutes.
The Rivian R2 is expected to launch in the first half of this year, 2026, while the R3 is scheduled to enter production later within the year, designated as a 2027 model. As more details emerge, attention will increasingly turn to the R3, while the R2 moves closer to its official launch.
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