The Next Big Thing? Rivian's R2 Vs. Similar Electric SUVs
What Car Shoppers Need to Know
- The Rivian R2 starts at $59,485 (all prices include destination) and will arrive this spring; more affordable versions will follow into 2027.
- It doesn’t have the most impressive range or power in the segment but offers Rivian charm and quality in a smaller package.
- Expect the biggest competition from the Tesla Model Y.
Almost two years to the day since Rivian officially unveiled the mid-size R2, we’ve got full specifications, pricing and range estimates for the automaker’s new bread-and-butter model. And right out of the gate, the collective numbers are looking strong: up to 345 miles of range, a max of 656 horsepower and a starting price of $59,485 for the first R2 available. Good stuff, but the R2 enters a white-hot market segment with established bestsellers and fan favorites. Let’s see how the downsized Rivian holds up to the competition, as well as its big brother, the R1S three-row SUV.
Related: Rivian R2 Is $59,485 at Launch With Leasing Confirmed; $45,000 Model on the Way
By the Numbers
| Specs | Rivian R2 | Rivian R1S | Tesla Model Y | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Toyota bZ Woodland/Subaru Trailseeker | Chevrolet Blazer EV |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $46,495-$59,485 | $78,885-$123,885 | $41,380-$58,880 | $36,600-$47,875 | $41,445-$48,850 | $46,495-$62,495 |
| Range (Miles) | 275-345 (manufacturer-estimated) | 258-410 (EPA) | 294-357 (manufacturer-estimated, EPA) | 245-318 (EPA) | 260-281 (manufacturer-estimated) | 283-312 (EPA) |
| Horsepower | 350-656 | 533-1,025 | N/A | 168-320 | 375 | 220-615 |
| Motor Options | Single (rear-wheel drive), dual (all-wheel drive) | Dual, triple, quad (AWD) | Single (RWD), dual (AWD) | Single (RWD), dual (AWD) | Dual (AWD) | Single (front-wheel drive), dual (AWD) |
| Charge Format | NACS | NACS | NACS | NACS | NACS | J1772, CCS |
Versus the Competition
Rivian R1S
The easiest decision of this group. The R2 is essentially a comprehensively downsized R1S, so the two limiting factors here are price and size. The R2’s slightly better base range of 275 miles is ahead of the R1S’ 258 miles, but the R2’s 365-mile max is a moderate step down from the R1S’ 410-mile cap. Both will be premium, capable, quick and characterful electric adventuremobiles, so take stock of your budget (and commute) before deciding.
Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y continues to be the 6-billion-pound sales elephant in the segment, but the R2’s novelty and outdoorsy vibe should both conquest Tesla customers and draw new buyers into the segment. The Model Y is settled science, but a contingent of folks have kept their powder dry specifically for the R2. The Model Y may modestly beat the Rivian on both range and price, but the R2 offers a slightly longer wheelbase, increased height and ground clearance, and significantly more off-road capability than the pavement-bound Tesla.
Hyundai Ioniq 5
Much like the Model Y, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers more crossover conventionality than the R2’s distinct SUV proportions and personality. The Ioniq 5 is positioned (and certainly presents) as less premium than the Rivian, reflected by the Ioniq’s $36,600 starting price — some $10,000 less than the R2. Pay less, get less: The R2 roundly bests the Hyundai in range, power and charge speeds, as well as capability and lifestyle accessories. If you can’t swing an R2 but still want to take your Hyundai camping, make sure you spring for the XRT grade, which adds modest fire-road capability via all-terrain tires, protective cladding and off-road terrain modes.
Toyota bZ Woodland/Subaru Trailseeker
While technically considered separate products, the Toyota bZ Woodland and Subaru Trailseeker are essentially the same vehicle with slight repackaging for their respective brands. It’s best to think of these as electric Subaru Outbacks, complete with a wagon-esque profile, standard AWD and off-road terrain profiles. For those prioritizing outdoorsy appeal with at least moderate off-road capability, either the Toyota or Subaru would be an appropriate alternative to the Rivian, especially considering all three offer similar cargo and passenger dimensions. However, look to the Rivian for additional range and performance.
Chevrolet Blazer EV
Though the Chevrolet Blazer EV is closer in size to the R1S, the Chevrolet is competitively priced against the new mid-size Rivian and boasts similar power outputs and range. If interurban commuting is your primary use case, the Blazer might be the pick based on its conventionality, especially if you stick with a well-equipped single-motor example.
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