Preview by Veeno Dewan
The R2 is a new model from Rivian for the 2026 model year, as the larger Rivian R1 becomes a more familiar sight on Canadian roads. The emerging Rivian brand hopes that the smaller R2 will replicate the success of the R1 with its compact size and relatively low price, attracting new customers. The R2 is priced below the R1, starting at around $66,000 (Canadian) for the base single-motor model with the standard battery pack.
The new R2 resembles the size of a BMW X3. The charming ovoid headlamps remain, and the styling reflects the Rivian design language seen in other models. Enhancing Rivian’s off-road capability, the all-wheel-drive R2 offers nearly 10 inches of ground clearance.
“The upstart Rivian brand hopes that the smaller R2 will emulate the success of its R1 with a more compact size and a comparatively low price to lure new customers to the brand. R2 will be cheaper than the R1S, with a starting price of around $66,000.”
Three different electric powertrain options will be offered in the R2. The single-motor base model features one electric motor driving the rear wheels, while higher trim models will include dual- and tri-motor configurations providing all-wheel drive. The top-spec tri-motor version will have two motors on the rear axle and one on the front. Two battery pack options will be available in the R2: a Standard Battery, a Large Battery, and an extended range Max Battery. Rivian states that the long-range R2 will be the single-motor variant with the larger battery, expected to deliver over 482 km of EV driving range. The R2’s charging system can recharge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes on a DC fast charger.
The interior design ethos will echo the luxury-themed interior of the current Rivian R1 model. Premium materials will abound, and most functions will be accessed through a sizeable tablet-style infotainment display at the dashboard’s center. The R2’s cabin features two rows of seats with space for five and a well-proportioned cargo area behind the second row.
“Other new features for an adventure-ready R2 include an optional roof-top tent for the R2 called Rivian Treehouse. It features a heated mattress, a lighting system, and a digital screen for streaming content. Other available accessories include a bike rack and a compact travel kitchen.”
The front hood includes a small trunk that can hold small backpacks, while the rear hatch features a separate opening window, and the glass panel between the C- and D-pillars can pop open for ventilation. Additionally, the R2 rear seats can fold flat, providing a surface for an inflatable mattress when camping—while still keeping the handy features from the R1, such as a flashlight on the driver’s door and a device charger for batteries, phones, and power banks. The front doors have a larger storage compartment.
At the center of the R2’s dashboard is a 15.6-inch infotainment display taken from the Rivian R1S. This display is brighter and easier to use, featuring a higher contrast ratio. This touchscreen manages functions such as steering wheel and mirror adjustments, drive mode selection, and more. The software interface includes expandable tiles for individual features, with the main options (navigation, media, and climate controls) consistently accessible at the bottom of the display. Although Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are currently excluded, this may change. Nonetheless, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and Amazon’s Alexa voice assistant are all anticipated to be standard features. The steering wheel features haptic controls for functions like radio volume, while the right-hand wheel adjusts drive modes.
Concerning safety and driver-assistance features, Rivian states that the R2 is equipped with 11 cameras and five radar sensors, which work together with standard automated emergency braking, lane keeping, departure assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, standard automated emergency braking will include pedestrian detection.
The R2 will be delivered in Canada in the first half of 2026. The Canadian price starts at $66,500. Canadian customers can reserve an R2 by placing a $150 deposit at the Rivian website or dealer outlet.
Expect the 2026 Rivian R2 price to be $66,500 plus fees, taxes, and delivery.
