2026 Rivian R2S: Everything We Know So Far

Rivian has molded its place in the electric vehicle world as an innovative and exciting contributor to the rapidly expanding technology. Rivian’s previous models, R1S and R1S, were a hit with customers as they offer reliable performance, excellent design, and an extensive (up to 352 miles) driving range. But with a high price of $78,000, it is not accessible to every consumer.  

So, where does the new 2026 Rivian R2S come in?

Rivian’s new offering is more of an entry-level, affordable model for the everyday consumer. It is a compact version with an excellent driving range and impressive engineering. Let’s take a closer look at everything that the 2026 Rivian R2S offers from the speculation rapidly accumulating about this new model.  

Under the Hood of the 2026 Rivian R2S

While this may be a more compact version than previous models, the performance of this car will be second to none. The more intricate details are being kept close to Rivian’s chest but they have confirmed that it will take the shape of a compact SUV.

When it comes to its electric motor setup, there are three potential different configurations. The first one is that it will be equipped with a dual electric motor with one placed on each axle. This setup will emit up to 600 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque.  

Another rumored setup for the R2S is that it could follow the same design as the R1S. It will contain a four-motor drivetrain overall that could house over 800 horsepower and 900 pound-feet of torque. 

Some experts believe it may only have three motors, two in the rear and one up front. 

Any of these set-ups will result in high acceleration, and this car could complete 60 mph in up to 3.2 seconds. Also, as the R1S can tow up to 7,000 pounds, the R2S is expected to have this capability but for a much smaller weight that has yet to be confirmed. 

Image source: 2026-Rivian-R2S-R2T-4-Carscoops-1.jpg 

The Battery within the 2026 Rivian R2S

From a financial point of view, there would be no reason for Rivian to go through the cost of developing a new battery, especially for the R2S. So, from this reasoning, it is heavily speculated that they will use the battery found within the R1S and R1T, which is a 105-kWh. 

Implementing a 105-kWh battery pack should give this vehicle a driving range of up to 300 miles, which is impressive even for a Tesla. 

Higher trims may have a larger battery pack of 135-kWh, installed in the premium versions of the R1S and R1T, but that could be an issue in a more compact vehicle.  The 180-kWh battery pack will be incompatible with this car due to its size and overall weight. 

The Off-Roading Features of the 2026 Rivian R2S

The previous models Rivian has released have excellent off-roading capabilities, so the R2S should have these features, too. So, expect multiple off-road modes to tackle different terrains in different weather conditions. It may even feature custom software that makes it even easier to transfer to off-roading conditions.  

Along with off-roading features, it will have exterior off-road equipment such as off-road wheels and tires, metal skid plates, and even a three-person tent to enjoy any terrain you want to explore using the R2S. 

Image source: 2026-Rivian-R2S-R2T-4-Carscoops-7-1024×1024.jpg 

The Price of the 2026 Rivian R2S

Even though it will be another twelve months before this car goes into production at Rivian’s new production plant in Georgia, a complete prototype is making a debut sometime in 2024. The orders for the R2S will open in 2025 and will be in stores for consumers to buy in 2026 (the ones who haven’t preordered, of course.) 

The price of the R2S remains a mystery, however many rumors are circulating that it could be in the range of $40,000, making it considerably more affordable than the R1S. With this price range, the Rivian R2S would be a direct competitor for the Tesla Model 3, which pushes this new brand into competition with major automotive manufacturers.  

Rivian has made incredible waves with the R1S and R1T, with happy customers up and down the country. It will be exciting for them to release a more affordable SUV, opening up a new customer bracket they did not have previously. Also, it gives power players like Tesla more competition and increases the quality of EV technology overall. 

Article Image Source: https://burlappcar.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/burlappcar-rivian-2-1024×752.jpg