The Tesla Model Y has dominated the electric crossover market for years, but the 2027 Rivian R2 is arriving to challenge that supremacy with rugged good looks and industry-leading performance. Not only is it delivering incredible range and features, but it starts at a price point comparable to a loaded RAV4, making it one of the most exciting EVs on the horizon. A full review will be posted here soon; in the meantime, check out our initial first look.

2027 Rivian R2 and Trim Levels

 The Rivian R2 will launch with a multi-tiered lineup, starting with the high-performance variants before introducing more affordable models closer to 2027. Below is the breakdown of the current MSRP and availability for each trim level.

Trim Level                                                          

Starting MSRP                                      

This trim is for buyers who…

Standard

$44,990

Best for value-conscious buyers (Available mid-2027).

Standard RWD LR

$48,490

Ideal for those prioritizing range over performance (Available early 2027).

Premium

$53,990

The “Sweet Spot” for features vs. price (Available late 2026).

Performance

$57,990

For those who want every single luxury and 0-60 in 3.6s.

Want to know what dealers paid for this model? Check out our New Car Quotes Tool: www.carconfections.com/new-car-quotes

Performance, Powertrain & CapabilitY

  • Motors: Single Motor (RWD), Dual Motor (AWD), or Performance Tri-Motor (AWD) setups.
  • Output: Base models produce 350 hp/355 lb.ft, while the Performance model pumps out 656 hp and 609 lb.ft of torque.
  • Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive (Standard) or Dual/Tri-Motor All-Wheel Drive.
  • Towing/Utility: The R2 features a maximum Towing Capacity of 4,400 lbs on Premium+ trims, significantly higher than the base 3,500 lb rating.
  • Range: The Long Range battery offers up to 345 miles (Rivian Est) for RWD models and 330 miles (EPA Est) for AWD/Performance variants.
2027 Rivian R2 Performance white electric SUV parked on a paved road.
2027 Rivian R2 front-facing view showing the light bar and front fascia.
Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 signature pill-shaped LED headlight.
Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 alloy wheel with yellow brake caliper.
2027 Rivian R2 white electric SUV viewed from the side profile.
2027 Rivian R2 white exterior, rear-quarter view showing taillight bar.
Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 steering wheel controls and driver display.
2027 Rivian R2 center touchscreen display showing navigation map interface.
Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 wood dashboard trim with "Rivian" embossed logo.
2027 Rivian R2 driving on a mountain road, rear view showcasing LED light bar.
2027 Rivian R2 white exterior parked outdoors with mountain backdrop.
2027 Rivian R2 silver/grey metallic rear three-quarter exterior view.
2027 Rivian R2 steering wheel, digital instrument cluster, and center infotainment display.
2027 Rivian R2 front driver seat interior upholstery.
Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 Standard dashboard trim and air vent design with Rivian branding.

Exterior Design

The R2 maintains Rivian’s signature “ruggedly handsome” design language, compressed into a more compact footprint.

  • General Theme: A clean, boxy aesthetic featuring the signature Rivian front lightbar and a unique “drop glass” rear window.
  • Trim Differences: Premium and Performance models include silver lower accents and functional tow hooks.
  • Wheel Sizes: Standard 19-inch wheels are available, with 20-inch and 21-inch options provided on higher trims.
  • Off-Road Specs: Boasts 9.6 inches of ground clearance with impressive approach (25°) and departure (26°) angles.

Close-up of 2027 Rivian R2 steering wheel controls and driver display.

Interior Tech & Luxury Highlights

Inside, the R2 focuses on sustainable luxury and high-tech utility.

  • Infotainment: A massive 15.6-inch center display running the latest Rivian software with an advanced AI assistant; note that it does not support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
  • Audio System: Standard 525W 7-speaker system or an upgraded 975W Rivian Premium Audio system with 13 speakers.
  • Seating: Features Advantex or Premium Vegan Leatherette with 12-way power adjustment and available ventilation.
  • Cargo Space: Exceptional utility with 28.7 cu.ft behind the second row and a total of 90.1 cu.ft including the frunk, which is larger than the Tesla Model Y.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Rivian has equipped the R2 with a robust suite of sensors and cameras that outperform the original R1 systems.

  • Standard Suite: Rivian Autonomy includes forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control.
  • Premium Tech: Enhanced Highway Assist offers a hands-free Level 2 driving system on marked roads, utilizing AI to learn and improve over time.

LOOKING TO BUY any New VEHICLE?

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Final Verdict: The Startup Leapfrogs the Big Dogs

The 2027 Rivian R2 is a game-changer that proves EVs can be both practical and adventurous. It offers more ground clearance and better storage than the Tesla Model Y while maintaining nearly identical pricing on the high end. If you want a luxury SUV that feels more rugged than a “street-oriented” Tesla, the R2 is the clear winner.

Watch Our Detailed First Look!

Our full review is coming soon! In the meantime, watch our initial first look video here: https://youtu.be/drpUklJZR-4

Does the Rivian R2’s rugged design and “drop glass” feature make you want to skip the Tesla Model Y? Let us know in the comments below!