Rivian R2 2026 Electric SUV – Features, Price & US Release Date Revealed!

.Rivian R2 – New Compact Electric SUV Coming to the US (2026)

 American electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian Automotive, Inc. has announced its new competitive SUV, the Rivian R2. This SUV is scheduled to launch in the US in 2026 and is being described as the company's most luxurious yet high-performance electric SUV.

Rivian's goal- is to bring dynamic, stylish, and adventure-ready EVs to more people. Learn all about the Rivian R2's features, models, range, price, and launch specifications. 

Company Information – Who Makes Rivian? 

•       Rivian Automotive Inc. is an American electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2009 by R. J. Scaringe in Rockledge, Florida.
•        The company's main production plant is located in Normal, Illinois—the same factory formerly owned by Mitsubishi. Rivian has converted it into a fully EV-specialized factory.
•         Rivian's major investors include companies like Amazon and Ford.

What is the Rivian R2?

 The Rivian R2 is an all-electric mid-size SUV designed to compete with popular SUVs like the Tesla Model Y and Jeep Recon.It will have similar off-road capabilities to the Rivian R1S, but will be smaller and much cheaper.

Rivian R2 Performance and Engine Options

•       The Rivian R2 will feature two powertrain options—

         Dual-Motor AWD and Tri-Motor AWD.

•        The top variant will have up to 700+ horsepower.
•       The 0–60 mph sprint will take just 3 seconds (Tri-motor version).
•        High-end technologies like Adaptive Air Suspension and Torque Vectoring will ensure a comfortable ride on all terrains.

Battery, Range, and Charging 

•       The Rivian R2 will feature a 90–110 kWh battery pack.
•       This SUV will have a range of approximately 300 miles (≈ 480 km) on a single charge.
•       New LG Energy 4695 battery cells (Made in the USA) are used, increasing the battery's capacity and efficiency.
•        Fast Charging: Charging from 10% to 80% takes just under 30 minutes using a DC Fast Charger.

Towing Capacity

•       The Rivian R2 has a towing capacity of approximately 5,000 lbs (≈ 2,268 kg).
•       This means the SUV can easily tow small trailers, boats, or camping equipment.
•        This is slightly less than the R1S's 7,700 lbs capacity, but still quite impressive for a mid-size SUV.

Interior and Technology Features

•       Spacious cabin: Ample space for 5 people with two-row seating.
•       A large 15.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display controls navigation, driving modes, and media.
•        Haptic steering controls and a smart user interface make driving easy.
•       Excellent storage space with two gloveboxes, multiple storage compartments, and a frunk (front trunk).
•        The seats can also be folded flat and used in camping mode.

Safety and Assist Features

•       Semi-autonomous driving features under the Rivian Driver+ System:
•          Adaptive Cruise Control
•          Lane Keeping Assist
•       Blind Spot Monitoring
•       Automatic Emergency Braking
•       360° Camera View

Exterior Design and Dimensions

•       The Rivian R2's design is rugged and futuristic, similar to the Rivian R1S.
•       The LED light bar, aerodynamic body, and blacked-out wheel arches give it a sporty look.
•       Dimensions:
•       Length: 185.6 inches
•       Width: 75 inches
•       Height: 66.9 inches
•          Ground Clearance: 9.8 inches

Price and Launch Date (U.S.) 

•       Estimated Starting Price: $45,000 (approximately ₹37 lakh)
•       Launch Time: First Half 2026 (Production in Illinois factory)
•       Reservations: Now open on Rivian's official website.

Why buy the Rivian R2?

•       Affordable price with a 300-mile range.
•         Stylish design, adventure-ready features.
•       Excellent tax incentives due to American-made battery cells.
•       A direct rival to the Tesla Model Y, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Conclusion

The Rivian R2 could prove to be the perfect combination of style, performance, and affordability in the US EV market.

If Rivian turns its claims into reality, the R2 could become the most popular compact electric SUV by 2026.