Imagine the bustling streets of Europe, where something new appears among the usual SUVs – the Rivian R2. This 4.7-meter electric SUV from America is coming in 2026 to shake up the old continent. No more hulking R1T or R1S, which were too big for our roads. The R2 is like a little brother, adapted to European tastes: compact, powerful and full of technology. With a slight irony: startups like to promise mountains, but Rivian's technology is already impressing big players like Volkswagen. Will the R2 really be a game-changer, or just another electric fad? Let's see what it brings.
Rivian, founded in 2009 under the leadership of RJ Scaringe, started with delivery vehicles for Amazon, then introduced in 2021 R1T pick-up and R1S SUV – beasts with a range of up to 505 km and acceleration to 100 km/h in under 3 seconds. But Europe demanded something smaller. Rivian R2 is the answer: a 4.7-meter SUV on a new platform that reduces the number of electronic control units (ECUs) by 50 %, while maintaining top-notch software integration. Cynicism? Giants like Volkswagen are already betting on this technology for their future models. Positive: Rivian proves that a small player can push the boundaries in the world of electric cars.
Design and dimensions: Practical yet adventurous
The R2 measures 4.71 m long, 1.91 m wide and 1.7 m high – similar to a BMW X3 or Hyundai Tucson, but with an adventurous spirit. At the front, the distinctive vertical LED headlights dominate, while at the rear, a clean, minimalist design with a loading door on the right side – ideal for European pavements. The boot offers 680 litres of space, and with the rear bench folded down, this increases to 2,000 litres. Optional tent Rivian Treehouse on the roof adds a touch of adventure – perfect for a weekend in the Alps. The interior? Luxurious yet robust: a 15.6-inch central display, two tactile buttons for volume and speed, and materials that can withstand everything from muddy roads to spilled coffee. Ironically: the R2 aims to be both stylish and indestructible. Positively: it’s a car that fits in the city but yearns for the wilderness.
Capacity: Electric power for all tastes
The Rivian R2 offers three powertrain options, all with impressive specs:
- Single engine, rear-wheel drive (RWD): Power 223 kW (300 hp), 400 Nm torque, 0-100 km/h in 6 seconds, top speed 201 km/h (125 mph). Range: 483 km (300 miles) with larger battery. For economical yet dynamic drivers.
- Two engines, four-wheel drive (AWD): 298 kW (400 hp), 550 Nm, 0–100 km/h in 4.5 seconds, same range. Perfect for city and country routes.
- Three engines, Performance AWD: Over 522 kW (700 hp), 800 Nm, acceleration under 3 seconds to 100 km/h, top speed 209 km/h (130 mph). For those who want to overtake everyone on the highway.
Batteries? There are two options: standard (85 kWh, 435 km / 270 miles range) and large (115 kWh, 483+ km / 300+ miles). They use LG 4695 cells – larger, with higher energy density. Charging? Up to 220 kW at DC fast chargers, from 10 % to 80 % in 30 minutes. The R2 will support CCS in Europe, with the option to use Tesla chargers via an adapter. Off-road? 20 cm of ground clearance and a towing capacity of 2700 kg. Positive: The R2 is a true electric adventurer who is not afraid of muddy roads.
Technology: Reliable smarts without over-promises
Rivian's strength is in its software. A platform with fewer ECUs means fewer failures and faster over-the-air (OTA) updates. Infotainment is based on Android Automotive with Google Maps that adapts to your habits. Driver assistance Drive+ includes 11 wide-angle cameras, radars and the option of a lidar upgrade. We expect 5 stars in NCAP tests, with active braking and a 360-degree view. Ironically: while some promise autonomy “next year”, Rivian offers reliable assistance today. That's what impresses – practicality without exaggeration.
R3 and R3X: Rivian's future in Europe
In addition to R2 comes R3, a smaller hatchback (4.2 meters), which will compete with the VW ID.3 and Kia EV3. Same platform, range 400+ km, price around 35,000 euros. And R3X? A rally-raid version with higher ground clearance for off-road enthusiasts. Rivian says: “We won’t just be SUVs, we’ll conquer all segments.”
When and for how much? Arrival in Europe
The R2 will cost $45,000 in the US (around €40,000), and in Europe we expect a price of around €45,000, as it will compete with the Model Y. It is scheduled to arrive in 2026, initially in left-hand drive, with versions for other markets to follow. An exact date has not yet been confirmed, but Rivian promises rapid expansion. Cynicism? The price will probably be a bit higher due to taxes and customizations, but if the R2 lives up to its promises, it will be worth every penny.
Conclusion: An electric SUV with soul and potential
Rivian R2 It's like a traveler bringing a breath of fresh air to European roads. With a range of 300 miles, acceleration that puts athletes to shame, and technology that's already impressing giants like Volkswagen, it has everything it needs to succeed. But startups like to make promises - will Rivian live up to expectations? On the positive side: the R2 combines adventure with urban practicality, which is rare. For €40,000-45,000, it's a car I'd like to test drive - and maybe even buy. If Rivian keeps its word, the R2 may indeed be the one to transform the European electric SUV market.
