New Rivian R2: the electric vehicle that wants to be the SUV for everything (but not for Europe… yet)

In short: The Rivian R2 aims to be the versatile and relatively affordable electric SUV that many were hoping for, but for now it's only available in the US.

Quick context: Rivian is expanding its lineup below the R1T and R1S with the new R2, a mid-size electric SUV designed for daily use, weekend getaways, and some adventure. MotorTrend has already tested it as a validation prototype, with a clear focus: higher volume, lower price, and maintaining the brand's outdoor DNA.

The Rivian R2 is the brand's most significant move since its launch. It's a step down in size and price compared to the R1, but without sacrificing the image of a rugged SUV, with off-road capabilities and an interior designed for people who use the car beyond paved roads. MotorTrend had the opportunity to drive a prototype very close to the production model slated for 2026, and initial impressions point to a highly refined electric vehicle right from the start.

For now, the R2 is designed for the US market, with production at the Normal, Illinois plant and no confirmed plans for Europe or Spain. But in terms of concept and execution, it's the kind of car that could fit perfectly into the compact and mid-size electric SUV segment, currently dominated here by the Tesla Model Y, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and Volkswagen ID.4.

What happened: first contact with the R2

MotorTrend has tested a pre-production Rivian R2, described as a validation prototype very close to the final production car. It's not a makeshift mule: it already features the platform, battery, and chassis configuration that Rivian intends to bring to the road. The company allowed a brief but sufficient initial test drive to get a sense of its handling, comfort, and overall approach.

The R2 is positioned as a two-row electric SUV, more compact than the R1S but with boxy proportions and a design that follows the brand's style: a vertical front end, oval headlights, and a robust silhouette. The objective is clear: a car that's practical for everyday use but can also confidently venture off-road or onto challenging terrain.

According to the test, the R2 already feels surprisingly mature for a prototype. There are no significant noises, the suspension tuning is quite fine-tuned, and the electrical system's response is smooth and predictable. MotorTrend notes that the overall feeling is that of a nearly finished product, although there are still details to refine and homologation processes to complete.

The technical aspects: platform, motors and battery

Architecture and versions

The R2 debuts a new, more compact and cost-optimized platform compared to the R1. MotorTrend reports a range with three mechanical configurations: a rear-mounted motor, two motors (one per axle), and a three-motor version, also with a performance focus. The test unit is the Dual Motor AWD, which is expected to be the heart of the range due to its balance of performance and price.

Rivian hasn't provided full power figures for this test, but the driving experience, according to the source, is one of strong acceleration, sufficient for effortless overtaking. Torque distribution between the axles is electronically managed, allowing for neutral handling and good traction even on low-grip surfaces. The brand maintains its focus on delivering genuine off-road capabilities, not just image.

Battery and efficiency

The R2's battery is a new generation design from Rivian, featuring a more compact package intended to reduce production costs. MotorTrend mentions that the target range is competitive for the segment, although Rivian hasn't released a final, officially certified figure. The focus is on combining sufficient range for long trips with a reasonable battery size.

In real-world driving, the prototype demonstrated fuel consumption figures typical of an electric SUV of its size, without being particularly thirsty according to the test impressions. Power delivery and regenerative braking are well integrated, with smooth and seamless transitions. Official fast-charging data and specific charging times are still pending, as the manufacturer has not yet provided details in this initial test drive.

Behavior: between daily commutes and getaways

Comfort and dynamics

On the road, the R2 feels lighter and more maneuverable than the R1S, which is logical given its size and design. MotorTrend highlights the well-calibrated steering for everyday use, with sufficient assistance and no overly artificial feel. The suspension prioritizes comfort but maintains body control in corners, without excessive roll for an SUV of this type.

On bumpy roads and uneven surfaces, the prototype effectively absorbs impacts and doesn't transmit harsh jolts to the cabin. Sound insulation is also well-executed for a pre-production car, with wind and road noise kept to a minimum. The overall impression is of a car designed for effortless long journeys, rather than for pushing its dynamic limits.

Off-road capabilities

Rivian hasn't abandoned its adventure-oriented approach with the R2. While not as extreme as an R1T or R1S, it maintains sufficient ground clearance and approach and departure angles that allow for relatively confident off-road driving. MotorTrend notes that the car performs well on tracks and trails, aided by the electronic traction control and the instant torque delivery of the electric motors.

The brand wants the R2 to be the car you can use for your weekday commute and a weekend camping trip, without needing a second vehicle. No specific figures have been given for wading depth or approach and departure angles, but the focus is clearly more adventurous than that of a typical urban electric SUV. It remains to be seen how this translates to the entry-level versions with a single rear motor.

Interior, space and onboard life

Design and ergonomics

Inside, the R2 follows Rivian's design language: clean lines, a large central screen, and materials that strike a balance between robustness and a premium feel. MotorTrend notes that the prototype's cabin already looks very close to the final version, with good fit and finish and a polished presentation. It's not ostentatious luxury, but neither is it a spartan interior.

The driving position is high, with good forward visibility thanks to the relatively short hood and vertical windshield. The main controls are well-placed, and the digital interface is an evolution of the one seen in the R1, with simplified menus and quick response. Rivian maintains its commitment to a technological environment, but tries to avoid overwhelming it.

Space and practicality

The R2 offers two rows of seats and a rear passenger compartment that MotorTrend describes as spacious for adults, with ample legroom and headroom. The trunk is generous for the segment, and the brand leverages the electric architecture to offer additional storage compartments and clever cargo solutions. The focus is clearly on family-oriented and practical.

The seats are comfortable on long journeys, and the car is designed for heavy use: materials that seem to withstand wear and tear well, easy-to-clean surfaces, and details designed for people who travel with luggage, bikes, or sports equipment. The R2 isn't trying to be a showy SUV, but a car that will actually be used.

Price, positioning and rivals

Rivian has announced that the R2 will be priced significantly lower than the R1, aiming to make the brand more accessible to a wider audience. MotorTrend notes that the strategy involves entering the segment currently dominated by the Tesla Model Y and other high-volume electric SUVs. While no specific figures are provided in the test, the message is clear: the R2 will be Rivian's entry-level model in the US.

In terms of positioning, the R2 aims to differentiate itself through its blend of distinctive design, genuine off-road capabilities, and a practical interior. Compared to rivals more focused on on-road performance and pure efficiency, Rivian is betting on the adventure factor and a strong brand image. If the price is right, it could become one of the most compelling electric vehicles in its class in the US market.

In Europe, and specifically in Spain, the situation is different: Rivian doesn't officially operate there and there's no announcement of a launch in the short term. So, for now, the R2 is a car we'll only see from afar, as a reference point for where the new generation of American electric SUVs is headed.

What remains to be confirmed

MotorTrend's test makes it clear that the R2 is very advanced, but there are still unknowns. There are no definitive figures for official range, fast charging times, exact power outputs for each version, or final pricing. Nor are there details on standard equipment or key options that could differentiate it from its rivals.

It also remains to be seen how perceived quality and fine-tuning of the chassis and software will evolve between now and 2026. A validation prototype may be very close to the final product, but there's always room for improvement in steering response, suspension tuning, or electronic management. Rivian will have to fine-tune all of this in an increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.

Finally, the big question for markets outside the US remains unanswered: there's no confirmation of its arrival in Europe or Spain. If the brand decides to make the leap, the R2, given its size and design, would be the logical model to lead the way, but that's just a possibility today, not an announced plan.

Key data

• Model: Rivian R2, two-row electric SUV.
• New platform, more compact and cost-optimized compared to the R1.
• The planned range includes versions with one, two, and three electric motors.
• Unit tested by MotorTrend: Dual Motor AWD (all-wheel drive).
• Production planned at the Normal plant (Illinois, USA).
• Focus: daily use + getaways and real off-road capabilities.
• Practical interior, with good rear space and a generous trunk.
• Positioning below the R1T and R1S in size and price.
• No confirmed plans for Europe or Spain according to available information.
• Autonomy, charging times and final prices not yet announced.

The important thing

• What's changing: Rivian is taking a step down and launching a more compact and accessible electric SUV, designed for volume.
• Why it matters: The R2 could become the brand's key model in the US against Tesla Model Y and company.
• What remains to be confirmed: official figures for range, charging, prices and, above all, whether it will ever arrive in Europe.

The Rivian R2, as described by MotorTrend, sounds like a very well-focused product: a logical size, a practical approach, and a touch of adventure that sets it apart in a market saturated with generic electric SUVs. From Europe, we can only look at it with a certain envy and technical curiosity, waiting for Rivian to dare to cross the Atlantic. Would you like to see an R2 registered in Spain competing head-to-head with the electric vehicles we already have here?