Rivian R2: New All-electric SUV with Expected Lower Price than VinFast VF8, Competing with Tesla Model Y

After a long wait, American brand Rivian has finally unveiled its all-new electric car called the R2. This is the brand’s third product, following the R1S and R1T.

Similar to its sibling, the R1S, the Rivian R2 is also an SUV. However, compared to the R1S, the new electric SUV from Rivian is smaller in size and has a lower price. The Rivian R2 has a length of 5,100 mm, a height of 1,873 mm, and a wheelbase of 3,075 mm.

This model is expected to play a significant role in helping the struggling brand increase its sales volume. With an expected starting price of around $45,000, the Rivian R2 is more expensive than the local rival Tesla Model Y by over $2,000. However, it is much cheaper than its sibling, the Rivian R1S, which has a starting price of $74,900. In fact, this model is even cheaper than the VinFast VF8 (ranging from $46,000 to $51,800) in the US market.

Rivian promises that the top-of-the-line R2 with 3 premium electric motors will accelerate from 0-96 km/h in under 3 seconds, faster than the Tesla Model Y. In addition, this model also has a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version with 1 electric motor and an all-wheel-drive (AWD) version with 2 electric motors.

Regardless of the version, the car has a range of 483 km after a full charge. The time to increase the battery capacity from 10-80% using fast DC charging is under 30 minutes.

Like other Rivian models, the R2 features a boxy exterior design and a minimalist style. The interior of the car features a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel with integrated buttons to adjust features, a digital instrument cluster, a large floating center touchscreen, leather seats, and a large glove box under the dashboard.

To create a spacious interior feel, Rivian has equipped the R2 with a panoramic sunroof, side-opening rear window, and a rear windshield that can be lowered. These design elements not only enhance interior ventilation but also allow users to transport long items such as surfboards.

Both rows of seats in the Rivian R2 can be folded flat to increase the practicality of the interior. The door speakers have been removed to increase storage space. Under the hood, the car naturally also has a small storage compartment like many other electric cars.

In addition, the Rivian R2 also has a Level 3 autonomous driving assist system. This allows the driver to release their hands from the steering wheel on some highways.

Rivian has now started taking reservations for the R2 in the US. The car is expected to be delivered to customers from the first half of 2026.