Rivian R2 Hands-On Shows 656-HP Mid-Size EV Built for Broader Market Appeal

Rivian Automotive expanded its consumer lineup earlier this year with the rollout of the 2027 Rivian R2, a mid-size electric SUV priced under $60,000 designed to capture mainstream buyers priced out of the company's flagship models. In an extensive hands-on review published by Engadget (https://www.engadget.com/2284218/2027-rivian-r2-review/), the vehicle packaged the brand's off-road styling and proprietary software into a lighter, more accessible footprint.

The launch follows Rivian's debut R1T pickup in 2021 and its three-row R1S SUV in 2022, which carries a starting price topping $80,000. Although the R2 resembles a scaled-down R1S, Rivian Chief Design Officer Jeff Hammoud previously indicated that the original R1 design originated from an early R2 concept. The vehicle incorporates signature styling elements, including boxy proportions, flush door handles, chunky bumpers, and pill-shaped headlights, ahead of the planned 2028 arrival of the smaller R3 crossover.

Exterior utility hardware includes standard front recovery hooks, recessed roof rack mounts, and a 5.2-cubic-foot front trunk equipped with a drainage plug for wet gear or use as a cooler. The Performance Launch Model evaluated by Engadget included an optional towing package featuring a concealed hitch and a 7-pin connector. Other exterior features include Matrix LED adaptive headlights, a rear hatch with a retractable glass pane, and a single-touch button that simultaneously lowers all four side windows and the rear windshield. The rear hatch release is positioned directly above the 'V' in the rear Rivian wordmark.

Inside, the 185-inch-long SUV matches the length of the Ford Mustang Mach-E but provides an airy cabin finished with upcycled birch trim. The dashboard integrates a 15.6-inch primary infotainment screen, an 11.5-inch instrument cluster, and two physical push-to-open glove boxes. Steering wheel controls rely on dual 'Haptic Halo Wheels' that scroll and click horizontally for assisted driving and audio adjustments, complemented by traditional steering column stalks for turn signals, wipers, and gear selection.

Cabin amenities include heated and ventilated front seating on Premium and Performance trims, a door-integrated flashlight, and multiple USB-C ports, including connections behind the front headrests. However, the center console provides only a single wireless phone charging pad for the driver. Second-row seats fold in a 60-40 configuration, offering roughly 30 cubic feet of cargo room behind the bench alongside underfloor storage. Child seat installation requires an included pin tool to remove the rear headrests when threading top tether straps.

Rivian continues to forego Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in favor of its native operating system, which includes Google-powered navigation and direct integration for Spotify, Apple Music, and SiriusXM. Connected features, video streaming, and Wi-Fi hotspot capabilities require Rivian's Connect+ subscription, priced at $15 per month or $150 annually. Voice texting and Rivian Assistant integration remain scheduled for an over-the-air update before year-end, while the onboard Gear Guard system functions as an integrated dashcam using the SUV's exterior cameras.

In Performance trim, the R2 produces 656 horsepower and reaches 60 mph in 3.6 seconds, outpacing the dual-motor R1S's 533 horsepower and 4.5-second benchmark. Weighing approximately 5,000 pounds—down from 6,600 to 7,100 pounds on the R1S—the SUV features a firm suspension setup, multi-level regenerative braking for one-pedal driving, and hardware support for V2L and V2H bidirectional charging, pending release of an official adapter.