That’s right, Rivian realized that it needs more than just the R1T and R1S to at least begin the process of making profits. I mean, the company reported a net loss of over US$ 5.4 billion for 2023, and although the number is better than 2022’s US$ 6.7 billion loss, it is not even remotely close to making profits. And so, Rivian revealed three products yesterday in California: R2, R3 and R3X, all built on a new mid-size platform. Rivian expects the R2 to carry a starting price tag of around US$ 45,000 with deliveries expected to commence in the first half of 2026, while the information on the R3 is a bit scarce at the moment.
The R2 is an SUV—as you can probably tell, but it is gonna be a smaller (mid-size) offering than the R1S. It follows the same design language as its larger sibling, but from the front- and rear-three-quarter angles, it gives off Discovery vibes. It measures 4,715 mm long, 1,905 mm wide and 1,700 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,935 mm. Exterior features include a usable frunk, powered rear glass (a rear windscreen that rolls down), a CCS2 charging port on the right side, and a sophisticated bike mount system on the rear bumper.
Let’s get the other important details out of the way then, shall we? Rivian plans to launch the R2 in three variants: single-motor RWD, dual-motor AWD, and tri-motor AWD (two motors at the rear and one at the front). The quickest configuration is claimed to deliver a 0-60 mph (96.5 km/h) sprint in under 3 seconds.
The battery pack utilizes new 4695-type cells that are claimed to offer significant improvements in energy density and output, estimated to deliver over 300 miles (483 km) of range on a single charge. If you manage to find a capable DC fast charger, the battery pack is claimed to be capable of charging from 10 to 80% in less than 30 minutes.
Inside, the R2 follows a minimalistic design—as was the case with the R1T and R1S. The example shown here wears calm and soothing tones. Materials used include recycled wood and ocean plastics. The dashboard houses not one but two glove boxes: one right underneath the touchscreen and the other on the passenger side. Other key highlights on the inside include a new steering wheel with large rotary controls (watch MKBHD video to see how it works), a torch integrated into the front door panel, a drawer in the second row, and fold-flat seats.
Next up we have the R3 and R3X; the latter is a performance version of the R3, claimed to offer even more dynamic abilities both on- and off-road. As mentioned, we don’t have the expected pricing or the availability timelines, but you can expect the R3 to be priced below R2, and Rivian said that R3 and R3X deliveries will start after R2. As for styling, the side profile and rear-three-quarter angles give off retro Italian hatchback vibes. There’s a mix of Lancia Delta with a bit of Lada Niva and the old Fiat Panda, but either way, people dig retro-modern designs.
The R3 is also gonna be available in three motor variants, and most likely, the R3X will cater to those seeking performance. Rivian expects the same 300 miles (483 km) of range for the R3, but remember, the performance variants are not gonna offer that much range.
The interior styling is similar to that of the R2; notice the dual glove boxes. The R3X will feature a chic interior with relatively vibrant colors and more rugged styling elements. Both R2 and R3 are claimed to offer enhanced autonomous driving capabilities, thanks to an array of 11 cameras, 5 radars, and a powerful computing platform.
The company said that all three models: R2, R3, and R3X will be available internationally following their North American launch.
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