Rivian may be able to achieve its ambitious goals based on early reviews.
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- The Rivian R2 is a mid-size electric SUV that is expected to be a major competitor to the Tesla Model Y.
- The R2 is expected to start around $45,000 and offer more than 300 miles of range in all trims.
The Rivian R2 could be the most influential electric vehicle released in 2026 due to its segment and the brand’s advancements in the EV space in recent years.
Rivian’s R2 is a midsize electric SUV that sits below the R1S. Much of the R2’s hype is due to its pricing and specs teased by the automaker. It could compete directly with best-selling EVs like Tesla’s Model Y compact electric SUV.
R2 will officially arrive this spring, but some experts, influencers, and automotive industry luminaries have already experienced it before the general public. Here’s what people who have already driven the R2 are saying about this exciting new EV.
MotorTrend calls the R2’s ride quality “unmistakably Rivian”
MotorTrend’s first drive review of the R2 on February 10 called the ride “unmistakably Rivian.” For a driver who has never been behind the wheel of a Rivian, that’s a huge compliment.
Rivian’s driving profile is very specific, providing ride firmness and smoothness for a variety of terrain types. The automaker describes the R2 as an SUV “suitable for all kinds of adventures.” This reflects the inherent off-road capabilities of all Rivian vehicles.
In short, the Rivian EV is designed for roads less traveled, functioning as a daily driver while truly shining in off-the-beaten-path locations. MotorTrend points out that buyers “feel like they’re getting what they paid for” based on first-drive impressions. Prices are expected to start around $45,000, making it a true Model Y alternative in terms of affordability.
Automotive influencer and YouTuber says R2 will be “agile and extremely capable”
Auto Focus, a popular automotive YouTube channel featuring Marques Brownlee, posted a first-drive review of the Rivian R2 on February 10th. The video has already racked up 1.2 million views, as Brownlee was one of the first drivers to take the R2 model on the road.
Brownlee said that “on paper specs” the R2 model “seems to hit all the bases.” The auto influencer says all R2 trims have a range of 300 miles, which is more than the range of the average base model EV under $50,000.
According to Brownlee, the Rivian R2 is fast and capable “even in its most basic version,” which is exactly what many car enthusiasts want from an EV. The auto influencer also pointed out that the size is similar to the Tesla Model Y.
Rivian R2 Thoughts Based on R1 Testing by USA TODAY Cars
USA TODAY Cars may not be able to drive the R2 yet, but the R1 has been thoroughly tested and reviewed. In testing, the R1 Quad Launch Edition proved to be surprisingly fast. Rivian’s software and unique user experience also stood out during testing.
Based on our R1 testing experience and R2 news, there are plenty of reasons (for some drivers) to be excited about the upcoming EV.
Should you buy a 2026 Rivian R2?
If you’re an average American driver who’s only ever owned gasoline and hybrid cars, the R2 may not be for you. If you’re ready for the unique benefits and obstacles that come with owning an electric vehicle, the R2 could be a game-changer.
First, Rivian is one of the few electric vehicle manufacturers that has proven that its vehicles can produce similar power and range to Tesla EVs. Moreover, the brand has created a niche market and its vehicle identity is rooted in its previous capabilities. Additionally, Rivian’s software and regular over-the-air updates put the brand in a unique position to compete with Tesla products.
The main advantages the Model Y has over the R2 are a longer production history and one of the best charging networks on the planet. Although the R2 has access to Tesla Superchargers, the charging experience designed for Tesla cars is difficult to replicate in other brands’ cars.
It’s too early to recommend the Rivian R2, but it’s certainly worth keeping an eye on once this nameplate is rolled out and more professionals are able to test it. In theory, its specs make it a replacement for the Tesla Model Y, but there’s still a lot to learn when this EV hits the roads.
