Rivian’s R2 aims for broad mainstream appeal with a smaller footprint and lower price than the R1S, starting at around $59,485 for the Launch Package with up to 345 miles of range, and a single-motor Standard version at about $46,485 arriving in summer 2027.

The R2 Performance version adds dual-motor all-wheel drive, 656 horsepower, 609 lb-ft of torque, up to 330 miles of EPA range, and a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds.

Overall verdict: the R2 is a solid, high-tech, well-rounded utility vehicle with strong on-road manners and capable off-road capability, though its extensive tech features may overwhelm those seeking simpler setups; Rivian is banking on broad appeal beyond the tech-forward crowd.

Interior highlights include recycled materials, Birch wood veneer, recycled ocean-plastic headliner, and Halo Haptic Wheels, though some users may dislike limited physical controls and occasional glitches with voice and connectivity.

On-road dynamics are refined and familiar, with balanced handling, a quiet ride, precise steering, and a one-pedal driving feel; off-road modes cover All-Terrain, Rally, Soft Sand, but it lacks the R1S’s air suspension and hydraulic roll control.

Mechanically, the R2 features a dual-pinion electric assist steering, true sway bars to reduce body roll, weight reduction of about a ton, and semi-active dampers to improve ride quality.

Braking uses hydraulic brake-by-wire with a fail-safe hydraulic backup and OTA-updatable software, marking an upgrade over the R1’s system.

An AI-driven driving-assist suite underpins Rivian Assistant with extensive opt-in data collection and encryption, enabling tasks like scheduling service and navigation; the system runs heavy AI compute and emphasizes user privacy controls.

R2 boasts AI-ready architecture, 5G connectivity, 11 HDR cameras, a five-radar array, in-cabin Rivian Assistant, dual digital displays, and a focus on over-the-air updates to evolve the software.

Launch software notes: a future update will enable voice assistant capabilities; launch omits CarPlay/Android Auto, which is seen as a missing piece.

Interior tech includes a new infotainment controller behind the screen, Halo switches on the steering wheel for quick access, and evolving autonomous features with planned unmonitored hands-free driving and a lidar-equipped variant later.

Overall assessment: strong fundamentals, better value versus the R1S in a more approachable package, though it lacks the R1’s distinctive design and requires some software updates for a full recommendation.