Rivian R2 electric SUV detailed: Everything you need to know about the latest Tesla Model Y rival

Electric SUV and ute specialist Rivian has revealed the production version of its mid-size battery-powered R2 SUV, confirming a starting price of US$57,990 (A$82,300) when sales begin in the United States in the coming weeks.

More affordable versions priced below US$45,000 ($64,000) are expected to follow in 2027, along with right-hand drive variants for markets such as the UK and Australia.

For now, full specifications have been detailed for the US market, providing a clear indication of what the R2 line-up could look like locally.

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The R2 will initially launch with a dual-motor all-wheel drive Performance variant, producing a claimed 489kW and 825Nm.

Rivian says this flagship model can accelerate from 0-60mph (0-97km/h) in 3.6 seconds, tow up to 1995kg (with the optional towing pack), and deliver a driving range of up to 531km from an 87.9kWh battery.

Charging from 10 to 80 per cent is claimed to take around 29 minutes.

Standard equipment includes semi-active suspension and eight drive modes designed to optimise traction across different surfaces.

Alongside snow, sand and all-terrain settings, there is also a new ‘Rally’ mode developed by Rivian’s RAD (Rivian Adventure Department) performance division.

The Performance rides on 21-inch alloy wheels finished in Liquid Tungsten with yellow brake calipers, and features matrix LED headlights, integrated tow hooks and a tailgate with a drop-down glass section.

Inside, the R2 includes heated and ventilated 12-way power-adjustable seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated second- and third-row seating. A full-width panoramic glass roof adds to cabin light.

Other features include a digital key via smartphone, a nine-speaker audio system, and Rivian’s ‘Haptic Halo’ steering wheel with dual scroll controls for infotainment. There is also an integrated torch housed in the driver’s door.

A 20-inch all-terrain wheel package is optional, while early buyers in the US will receive a complimentary Launch Package that includes a lifetime subscription to Autonomy+, Rivian’s Level 2+ hands-free driving system covering around 3.5 million miles of mapped roads in North America.

A more affordable R2 Premium is due in late 2026, priced from US$53,990 (A$77,200). This version reduces outputs to 356kW and 727Nm, with a 0-60mph time of 4.6 seconds, while maintaining the same 531km claimed range.

The Premium rides on 20-inch alloy wheels and loses some features, including the Rally drive mode.

In the first half of 2027, a single-motor rear-wheel drive R2 Standard Long Range will join the line-up, priced from US$48,490 ($69,300).

Producing 260kW and 481Nm, it is claimed to accelerate from 0-60mph in 5.9 seconds, with range increasing to 555km.

This entry variant will also be offered with the dual-motor powertrain, but with reduced equipment, including 19-inch wheels, a five-speaker sound system, and 8-way power-adjustable front seats. Heating is limited to the front seats and steering wheel.

A further entry-level version with a smaller battery and an estimated 443km range is expected in late 2027, with pricing around US$45,000 (A$64,400).

Rivian says the R2 offers strong practicality, with 813 litres of rear cargo space plus a 147-litre front boot.

Off-road capability is expected to be a key focus, with 244mm of ground clearance. The R2 is also significantly lighter than the larger R1 models, with a claimed weight reduction of around 900kg compared with the 3206kg R1.

Higher-performance variants are also expected to follow, potentially featuring increased power, upgraded suspension and braking hardware, along with further off-road enhancements developed by the RAD division.

Rivian has not confirmed timing for an Australian launch, but the R2’s arrival is expected to align with the brand’s planned expansion into right-hand drive markets from 2027, which could see it reach Australia in late that year or early 2028.