Quickies: 2027 Rivian R2

If you have been following Rivian, you will know that it has finally added more models next to its R1T pickup truck and R1S SUV. Not just for the sake of expanding the lineup, but to create more affordable opportunities to consumers looking for a battery-electric vehicle that promotes itself as adventurous. 

Previously, we worked with the R1T for a quick turn. The idea was well thought out, as the pickup truck exhibited a higher level of practicality with its Gear Tunnel storage area. With a choice of power sources – including a four-motor driveline – the premise was indeed in lie with the dreams of many EV enthusiasts. 

The R1S is a three-row SUV. It may fit for some consumers, but there are many who wanted a two-row version. Something shorter than the R1S and more agile. If Rivian promises a lineup of “adventure” type EVs, they have some niches to fill. 

The R2 is the first of two such vehicles that will fill these spots in the Rivian lineup. We had to find out whether they really fit the mission of the company?

One thing you will immediately notice is how much the R2 looks like a R1S. The basic design tenets are there – two vertical oval LED lighting units bridged by an LED light bar, a high lift-over front trunk area, upright roofline, and a LED lighting signature in the back. The difference between the R2 and R1S is 15.2 inches in length and 5.6 inches in the wheelbase. 

The 2027 R2 comes in three grades – Standard, Premium, and Performance. The Standard is a single motor, rear-drive model, the other two have dual motors with all-wheel drive. There is a power rating difference between the Premium and Performance, with the latter topping out at 656 horsepower. It is the Performance model that will get all of the headlines. It offers 9.5 inches of ground clearance, when equipped with off-road tires. 

We checked out two Performance versions, one with all-season tires, the other with off-road tires. We found a difference between the two tire sets in terms of ride quality. Oddly enough, the all-season tires offered a firmer ride than the other. Even with changes to drive modes, we also found no difference between the suspension feel. It is not a harsh ride altogether, but it might be quite firm for most people looking for a pure off-roader. 

Another thing we found that was the adjustments in the one-pedal driving feature. You cannot simply turn it off completely. The lowest effort it can go is about 25%. At its highest, it can be a bit aggressive to slow the 2027 R2 down before you even approach the intersection or the vehicle in front of you. 

In the Performance model, you have 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque on tap from the dual-motor set-up. You would think that you “feel the power” when you depress the accelerator. When you step on the accelerator, yes. In everyday driving, the 2027 R2’s weight seemed to hold back the driveline’s performance. You can still amble on, regardless. This configuration is rated for a range of 330 miles. Other R2 models can achieve more than that figure. 

One thing Rivian carried over from the R1S to the R2 is the power liftgate window, making loading and unloading easier for smaller items. Yet, access to the cabin was fine overall. 

When you step inside, you will enjoy room for up to five people. The front seats were large and offered some support. The rear seats were actually comfortable. The 28.7 cubic feet figure for the cargo area behind the rear seats look deceptive – as in it should be much more than that. You can fold down the rears seats to open up to 79.4 cubic feet. 

Ergonomically, most of the key controls start from the center infotainment display touchscreen. Some controls are buried in various menus that made it difficult to utilize on the fly. Also, some controls use the haptic spin wheels on the steering wheel. You have to go to the screen to choose which function the wheel should operate. 

However, the digital instrument cluster was easy to read. Plus, the shifter is on the steering column. There are EVs in its size class that are simply easier to operate than the 2027 R2. 

As far as pricing is concerned, the 2027 Rivian R2 starts at $44,990 for a Standard single-motor model. The Performance testers we drove came with sticker prices of $59,490 with all-season tires and $60,990 for the all-terrain tires version. 

The 2027 R2 is planted on a strong platform that has been reduced in size to meet a new set of customers – or Rivian owners. The pricing looks competitive, as is the EV range on dual-motor models. It seems that the smaller R2 fits in the company's mission. Yet, there are concerns whether this is the right kind of adventure EV people might want. 

Is it as well-executed a vehicle that would entice customers to bring one home? That is a good question that should be answered when you get a chance to drive one. 

DISCLAIMER: Vehicle provided by Rivian through their Hub in Edina, Minnesota

All photos by Randy Stern and George Torline