The Rivian R2 is one of the new EV launches we’re most excited about in 2026. The EV maker has impressed with the full-size R1S and R1T, but those models’ high prices limit their widespread appeal. The smaller R2 will change that, and Rivian says its new electric SUV is now a lot closer to reaching showrooms. The R2 has officially entered final validation testing, so it’s close to concluding a rigorous series of torture tests conducted by Rivian to ensure the SUV’s reliability.
Related: Rivian’s Future Now Hangs on the R2 — Here’s Why
Smaller—But Still Tough
R
The Rivian R2 may be a lot smaller than the R1S, but it’s still designed to be an adventure SUV that can tackle a range of environments with confidence.
“We’ve spent years putting R2 through nonstop testing,” said Rivian. “With multiple lifetimes of mileage accumulation and extreme durability runs, it has been through scorching heat, bitter cold, soft sand, deep water, max towing, and much more.”
R
The R2 has been tested in environments as disparate as Death Valley’s heat and the frigid cold of Fairbanks, Alaska. Exposing the EV to a temperature range from -45 degrees Fahrenheit to a maximum of 122 degrees ensures the cabin remains comfortable, even in conditions more extreme than most customers will experience. These tests also ensure the battery and electronics are effectively isolated from the elements.
Rivian R2 Rivian
“Our R2 development fleet has performed incredibly well through all our testing—better than we ever expected,” said Max Koff, R2 Chief Engineer. “It has improved performance and reliability across the board. Customers are going to really benefit from it, which is exactly our goal.”
Like other Rivians, the R2 will be quick and have a class-leading range; the 0-60 mph sprint will take just three seconds and it has an estimated range of over 300 miles.
Related: Rivian’s Deliveries Fell in 2025—Now Its Next EV Has to Succeed
Rivian’s Model 3 Moment?
R
Everything changed for Tesla when it introduced the Model 3 sedan in 2017. Far cheaper than the Model S and Model X, it went on to become the first EV to surpass one million global sales. It was later surpassed as the company’s top-selling EV by the Model Y crossover.
Rivian has followed a similar blueprint to Tesla, initially making a name for itself in the exclusive full-size segment. But an affordable EV has been desperately needed, and the R2 is just that vehicle. According to Rivian, it will start at $45,000 when it goes on sale, which is roughly half what you’ll pay for a mid-range R1S trim. If that’s still too expensive, the upcoming R3 is an even smaller Rivian EV with an expected starting price of under $40k.
Rivian does have a few problems not faced by the Model 3 when that car launched, though. For starters, there are far more smaller EV options now than there were in 2017. Secondly, the R2 will arrive amid a downturn in the EV market, as buyers increasingly opt for more practical hybrids.
Even so, the R2 will be a pivotal vehicle for Rivian, potentially elevating the company from a niche player to one of the market’s top EV manufacturers.
