New Rivian R2 unveiled: get ready electric SUV buyers, it's coming to the UK

• Fully electric mid-size SUV
• Range of over 350 miles
• Confirmed for UK release in 2027

American automaker Rivian has unveiled its latest creation, the Rivian R2, a fully electric mid-size SUV aimed squarely at the Tesla Model Y. With a distinctive exterior design and the latest EV technology, the R2 packs the brand’s focus on innovation and utility into a compact package fit for our UK roads. 

Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with Rivian; the California-based firm only came into existence in 2009, hitting headlines in 2021 with the release of the R1T – the world’s first electric pickup truck. Unlike the R1T and its SUV sister, the R1S, the Rivian R2 has been designed as a global car and will be sold beyond the borders of North America, including in the UK. Buyers over here have a long wait ahead, however, as Rivian has confirmed that the R2 won’t reach our shores until 2027.

What do I need to know about the Rivian R2?

Rivian is a relatively young company that exclusively designs and builds electric vehicles, including the R1T and R1S sold in North America. The R2 is built on an entirely new electric platform but continues the same ethos of ruggedness and practicality that has proven successful for its siblings in their home market.

The R2 will be offered with three different motor layouts, each offering a different level of performance at a different price point. A rear-wheel drive single-motor R2 will kick off the range, followed by a dual-motor four-wheel drive variant. A triple-motor model will sit at the top of the hierarchy, delivering supercar levels of performance – Rivian quotes a 0-60mph time of “well under three seconds”.

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Technical specifications such as horsepower and charging speed are still unknown, but Rivian has confirmed that two different battery sizes will be offered, with the larger option delivering a range of over 350 miles. All will be rapid-charging compatible, with a 10-80% charge completed in less than 30 minutes.  

Like its rival from Tesla, the R2 features a host of cameras, radars and sensors that work together to provide various autonomous driving features. All the tech will be continually improved through over-the-air updates, too, so further functionality can be added in the future.

What does the Rivian R2 look like?

The R2 continues the design language that first appeared on the R1T and R1S, but shrunk to fit a smaller footprint. At 4,715mm long, it's shorter than a Tesla Model Y and roughly the same size as a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Unlike those EVs, the R2 bucks the ‘coupe-SUV’ sloping roofline trend that many new SUVs have gravitated towards, instead opting for a roomier, boxy look. It’s a clean and uncluttered design, with simple body lines and a black-painted contrasting roof.

Up front, you’ll spot the brand’s trademark pair of ‘stadium’ headlights, connected by a horizontal light bar. This sits below a front boot – or ‘frunk’ – providing extra storage space. A similar light bar is found at the rear, underneath an electronically-retracting rear window.

What about the Rivian R2’s interior?

Like the exterior, the interior of the R2 is minimalist and uncluttered, with a large infotainment screen taking centre stage. The driver gets a digital display for important information, too. Rivian claims that the interior materials and finishes have been specifically chosen for their durability, sustainability and ease-of-cleaning.

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Rivian is keen to point out the unique practicality features inside the R2. There are two large glove boxes and all the seats – including the front row – can fold flat to increase storage space, or to create room for an inflatable mattress for those who fancy some in-car camping.

How much does the Rivian R2 cost and when can I order one?

Rivian has confirmed a US starting price of $45,000 for the R2; that translates to approximately £35,000, but this is expected to increase once it reaches the UK. Customers in the US can reserve an R2 from today, with deliveries expected to commence in 2026, while UK customers will have to wait until 2027 to get behind the wheel.

A smaller and cheaper model – the Rivian R3 – has also been announced and will use the same platform as the R2. It will be available worldwide, although pricing and delivery dates are still unknown.

There are plenty of electric SUVs on sale today – read our top 10 list of the best…