Revolutionary Rivian SUVs Revealed: Affordable Prices, Jaw-Dropping Features, and Tesla Rivalry!

On Thursday, Rivian unveiled two new SUV models: the highly anticipated R2 SUV and a surprise addition, the smaller R3. These new offerings, following the success of Rivian’s R1T truck and R1S SUV, are aimed at expanding the company’s customer base beyond the premium market.

With a starting price of $45,000, the R2 is priced more competitively, aligning it closely with the average transaction price of new cars. This move comes at a time when demand for higher-priced electric vehicles is waning. Additionally, the smaller size and lower cost of the R2 position Rivian to directly compete with Tesla’s popular Model 3 and Model Y, which have been aggressively priced by CEO Elon Musk to gain market share in the increasingly competitive electric vehicle market.

The launch of the R2, set for early 2026, is pivotal for Rivian’s future success. While pricing and delivery details for the R3 were not disclosed during the announcement, CEO RJ Scaringe emphasized that these new models represent Rivian’s future direction, making the brand more accessible to a broader audience.

Pricing, Reservations, and Market Positioning

Rivian announced on Thursday that the starting price for the R2 is $45,000, with reservations available now for a $100 deposit. While vehicle configurations are not yet accessible on Rivian’s website, it remains uncertain how much additional add-ons or higher trims will cost. Additionally, it’s unclear if the R2 will qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit.

This lower starting price addresses what Rivian CEO Scaringe refers to as a “significant sweet spot” in the EV market that Rivian has yet to tap into. Currently, the R1S SUV is priced around $80,000, while the R1T pickup truck costs approximately $73,000.

In comparison, Tesla’s Model Y starts at approximately $43,000, and the Model 3 starts at $38,990.

Pricing details for the R3 and R3X have not been disclosed at this time.

Driving Range Details

Scaringe mentioned that the R2 offers a driving range of over 300 miles, which is consistent with the standard range of the R1S and R1T models. However, both of these models can achieve a top-end range of around 400 miles with the Max battery pack.

Details regarding the range of the R3 vehicles were not disclosed during Thursday’s announcement.

Compact Design and Unique Features

The R2 looks like a smaller version of the R1S, with the same boxy stance and bright, anime-like grille and headlights. The R2 is about 15 inches shorter than the R1S at about 15.5 feet long.

It also sits about 5.5 inches lower than the R1S at roughly 5.5 feet tall. The R2 boasts some fun new features, like a rear window that rolls all the way down to accommodate longer cargo (Scaringe’s example was, of course, a surfboard. After several R1 owners asked for them, the R2 also features two large glove compartments in the front seat.

Rivian R3 and R3X: Next-Generation Crossovers

The R3 and R3X performance variants bring a different look to the Rivian lineup as its first crossovers, with a more angular rear end. Little was shared Thursday about the R3, but it appears even smaller than the R2 and appears to feature an eye-popping glass roof.