2027 Rivian R2 Initial Driving Review: The Ideal Vehicle for a Wide Range of People

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      Rivian R2 steps into the compact SUV arena, offering competitive pricing and over 300 miles of range, aiming to go head-to-head with popular models like the Tesla Model Y.

      It boasts an impressive feature balance, merging on-road performance and off-road prowess with cutting-edge technology and a premium atmosphere.

      Its innovative design and interior include unique features like a drop-down rear window, dual glove compartments, and a 40:20:40 split-folding rear seat configuration.

      When it comes to performance and efficiency, the R2 provides multiple powertrain choices, fast-charging capabilities, and a range that reaches up to 330 miles.

      In summary, the Rivian R2 is set to capture a significant portion of the market with its combination of style, technology, and performance, all at a competitive price.

      AI-assisted, editor-reviewed.

      The 2027 Rivian R2 marks the startup's entry into what one CEO recently called a “blood bath” segment: the compact crossover SUV market. Priced between $46,485 and $59,485, with more than 300 miles of range and all the technology anyone could desire, the R2 is set to challenge formidable competitors from the Tesla Model Y to the Toyota RAV4.

      It's rare for me to be left speechless—just ask anyone on my team or my wife. After spending a day with the R2, I was genuinely impressed. Rivian has achieved a remarkable balance between on-road driving dynamics and off-road capabilities in a stylish and premium package, and all at a competitive price.

      ### The Basics

      The Rivian R2 follows the larger R1S and is a two-row crossover SUV that is less expensive and simpler in various respects, yet paradoxically more advanced in others. It provides Rivian with a chance to tap into the core of the market—the compact crossover SUV category, which is the most popular vehicle type in America, with the Toyota RAV4 and Tesla Model Y dominating sales. At 185.9 inches long, the R2 is conveniently sized for many buyers.

      At first glance, the R2 might be mistaken for the larger R1S, which is intentional. They clearly share design elements. Rivian’s signature lighting is prominent, though the details are more refined, with smaller, vertically-oriented headlights. The front fenders incorporate Rivian-branded turn signal indicators instead of those embedded in side mirrors, and there's no trim around the door glass or roof. It's a more seamless design that enhances aerodynamics and reduces costs. The rear doors lack a second fixed panel since they are shorter, and the charge port is positioned on the driver’s side rear fender—similar to a Tesla—for easier charging at Superchargers and less risk of damage. The rear hatch glass drops into the tailgate like in the Toyota 4Runner, which is a fantastic feature, and the rear wiper is cleverly concealed within the tailgate, a first in the industry. These may seem like minor details, but they collectively set the R2 apart. It's unmistakably a Rivian, just smaller, maintaining tight overhangs and an SUV appearance that avoids looking like an oversized jelly bean.

      ### Interior Features

      During the transition from R1S to R2, the interior saw updates based on owner feedback. The dashboard remains straightforward, featuring a 12.0-inch digital gauge and a 15.6-inch touchscreen for most controls. Two stalks contain numerous buttons and knobs for various functions, including windshield wipers, physical headlight controls, gear selection, and adaptive cruise control settings. The steering wheel includes Halo Wheels that can rotate, shift laterally, and be pushed or pulled for tasks like volume adjustment and climate control tweaks. There may be more features introduced later, but the current controls from the steering wheel are impressive. However, it still lacks real door handles (relying on electronic push buttons from the R1S), manual air vent controls (which are still touchscreen-based), and headliner grab handles for those unexpected moments.

      The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials, and while base models feature cloth trim, they don’t feel or look cheap. Rivian has relocated front speakers to the center, freeing up door panel space for large water bottles, a change influenced by feedback from R1S customers. Notably, the R2 offers two glove compartments, whereas the R1S has none. The wireless charging pad at the front can accommodate two phones and is MagSafe-compatible, functioning well during my test.

      The rear seats offer a versatile 40/20/40 folding configuration, which is uncommon in this segment, allowing for flexible cargo and passenger arrangements. The cargo area includes underfloor storage suitable for a space-saver spare tire (available at an additional cost), but cannot accommodate a full-size spare.

      Inside,