# Rivian R2 Compact EV SUV Unveiled with Performance Trims and Staggered Launch

**Curated by [Ayaan Zaveri](/content/user/249647ab-6b2d-4679-adb9-f9f3097c71ad/index.html)**  
Mar 16, 2026

## Summary

### Quick Take

- Rivian unveiled its new R2 mid‑size electric SUV, launching the high‑performance Performance Launch trim at $57,990–$59,485 this spring. [ev.com+1](https://ev.com/news/rivian-r2-launches-with-57990-performance-model-before-45k-version-arrives)
- A slightly less expensive Premium trim starts at $55,485, while a budget‑friendly Standard model priced at $45,000 is slated for late 2027. [caranddriver.com+1](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70717801/2027-rivian-r2-specs-price-revealed/)
- The R2’s dual‑motor setup delivers up to 656 horsepower and offers over 300 miles of range, surpassing the Porsche Macan Turbo EV in power while costing roughly half as much. [caranddriver.com+1](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70717801/2027-rivian-r2-specs-price-revealed/)
- Inside, the R2 features a best‑in‑class five‑seat cabin, a digital instrument cluster, a large touchscreen, and light‑colored seating for a clean driver‑focused layout. [rivian.com+1](https://rivian.com/r2)
- Rivian’s strategy positions the R2 as a volume‑play to broaden appeal beyond its premium R1 lineup, aiming to attract buyers who want performance without a luxury price tag. [news.dupontregistry.com+1](https://news.dupontregistry.com/blogs/rivian/rivian-announces-full-r2-lineup-pricing)
- Future variants include a 2028 rear‑wheel‑drive RWD model priced between $46,495 and $49,985, and hints at a potential trimotor version for even higher performance. [caranddriver.com+1](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70717801/2027-rivian-r2-specs-price-revealed/)

## Sources

11 references

-  [rivianwave.com](https://www.rivianwave.com/news/3787/rivians-r2-lineup-all-the-smaller-details)
-  [caranddriver.com](https://www.caranddriver.com/news/a70717801/2027-rivian-r2-specs-price-revealed/)  
-  [rivian.com](https://rivian.com/r2)  
-  [just-auto.com](https://www.just-auto.com/news/rivian-introduces-r2-model-range-in-us/)  
-  [dupontregistry.com](https://news.dupontregistry.com/blogs/rivian/rivian-announces-full-r2-lineup-pricing)