- The first reviews of Rivian’s next R2 are already here
- The reactions of journalists, youtubers and influencers have been positive
- It is claimed that the price of the R2 could compete with the Tesla Model Y
Some of the world’s leading digital media outlets recently received the keys to Rivian’s R2 electric SUV prototype. According to these early reports, this key Model Y rival is arguably more attractive, more capable and more desirable than Tesla’s best-selling electric vehicle… conclusions, we’re sure, that Elon Musk isn’t very happy about.
In short, the Rivian R2 is essentially a scaled-down version of the groundbreaking R1S SUV, which put an innovative spin on software and computing power from the beginning of its journey. That was a move that has since seen the Volkswagen Group hand over large sums of money to ensure it could get in on the action.
While the Californian automaker has yet to release official specifications, these first units give us a good look at the key numbers. Top Gear reports that it weighs 2,250kg and has a lower center of gravity compared to the R1. It’s also 22 percent stiffer, which should do wonders for driving dynamics.
There’s also the fact that it’s aiming for an EPA range of 300 miles, and Electrek claims a battery size of 87.4 kWh, although that’s probably a usable figure as Top Gear says the raw capacity is more than 90 kWh.
In terms of charging speeds, it eschews the new industry standard 800V architecture that allows for the fastest recharge speeds for a more economical 400V system. Again, Top Gear says this is 450V, so there is still some confusion.
The first Rivian R2 units and reviews with pre-production R2 have been published! @DougDeMuro: pic.twitter.com/7MfKjrzgblFebruary 10, 2026
This would allow 10 to 80 percent charging in less than 30 minutes from a 200 kW station, and Rivian has confirmed that the R2 features vehicle-to-charge (V2L) capability, making it possible to power or charge larger electronic devices from the vehicle’s battery pack.
Despite its rugged off-road styling, it measures roughly the same size as a Tesla Model Y, and because this vehicle is also sold in Europe, its exterior design has been engineered to meet the strictest crash standards in other markets.
YouTuber Zack Nelson, also known as JerryRigEverything, described his off-road experience in the R2 prototype as if a “Tesla and a Jeep had a baby” in reference to its capabilities and the near-silent nature of its smooth powertrain.
Most early reviewers also seemed pleased with the overall fit and finish of the interior, including the fact that Rivian has added a number of convenience features, such as a power-opening front trunk, as well as the signature flashlight hidden in the driver’s door, so adventurers can light the way when hitting the trails.
Initial Thoughts: Monster Specs, Tempting Price
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Like the official specs and model range, Rivian is jealously guarding the exact price of its upcoming electric SUV, but many of the influencers, YouTubers and journalists who were offered the opportunity to drive the first prototype referenced it costing “half the price” of an R1.
The company itself has said it hopes the next electric vehicle can start at around $45,000 (or around £33,000/AU$63,000), while offering the kind of range and performance that can happily compete with Tesla’s best-selling Model Y.
These camouflaged pre-production R2s were powered by twin motors, delivering 656bhp and a 0-60mph acceleration of 3.6 seconds, which is on par with Tesla’s Performance trim cars and is probably very competitively priced too.
But unlike Musk’s offering, the R2 also offers the promise of true truck-like off-road capabilities, which really speaks to a large number of buyers in North America.
This fact, in addition to its attractive looks, practicality, comfort, driving dynamics and digital offering, led journalist and YouTube personality Doug DeMuro to conclude in his video that the R2 is “quite possibly the best all-around electric vehicle I’ve ever driven.”
DeMuro placed it in second place on its table of key rivals, which included Rivian’s R1S (number one), the 2025 Porsche Macan Turbo EV (third) and Tesla’s Model Y Performance, which was in sixth place.
With Tesla’s grip on the electric vehicle market diminishing by the day, news that a well-reviewed and relatively affordable electric truck will soon go on sale will likely increase the pressure on Musk.
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