The 2027 Rivian R2 represents a pivotal "make or break" moment for Rivian, aiming to deliver premium EV capability at more accessible prices while scaling production. In this first-drive review, content creator Gjeebs (owner of an R1S and Tesla Model Y) provides a balanced, hands-on assessment of the Launch Edition, tested on-road and off-road at high elevation.
Pricing and Positioning:
The R2 targets mainstream buyers with aggressive pricing. The Launch Edition starts at $57,990, the Premium trim at $53,990 (late 2026), and the Standard at $48,490 or as low as $44,990 (early 2027). These figures compete directly with higher-trim Toyota RAV4s or Tesla Model Ys, offering superior features like an 88 kWh battery, up to 330 miles of range (with 21-inch wheels), and 230 kW charging. The reviewer views the value as exceptional, favoring the R2 over gas competitors.
Design and Practicality:
The R2 retains Rivian's signature stadium lighting and adventure aesthetic but appears slightly wider and more squat. Exterior highlights include pop-out handles, panoramic roof, illuminated "RIVIAN" badging with turn signals, and substantial storage: a frunk (fits golf clubs), rear trunk with 120V/12V outlets, and a versatile sub-trunk. A standout "5X" button drops all windows and the rear glass for open-air feel (fixed glass on base models). Interior materials feel premium at touch points (leather-like wraps, quality steering wheel) despite cost-saving hard plastics below the waistline. Rear seating is remarkably spacious—even for a 6'3" passenger—with heated seats, USB-C, and ample headroom.
Performance and Driving Dynamics:
Powered by dual motors in higher trims (450 hp, 4.6s 0-60; base ~350 hp, 5.9s), the R2 delivers strong acceleration, especially mid-range (50-70 mph). It uses an adaptive valved suspension (McPherson strut front, no air suspension) that excels at body control, with drive modes tuning damping, steering, and regen. On-road, it feels composed but less planted than a Model Y; off-road, with 9.6 inches of clearance, all-terrain tires (air-down to 25 psi), and dedicated modes, it handles rock crawling impressively for its class. Brakes (hydraulic brake-by-wire) offer tunable response. The cabin is quiet, seats are supportive and cooled/heated, and the flat-bottom steering wheel with haptic scroll wheels and high-res displays enhances the driver experience.
Technology and Future-Proofing:
The R2 includes advanced camera systems (65 MP total) and Autonomy Plus (hands-free driving, upcoming point-to-point by late 2026, traffic light/stop sign control, automated parking). Early models lack LiDAR, but software updates will enhance capabilities. Vertical integration allows rapid improvements based on real-world data.
Comparisons and Verdict:
Compared to the R1S, the R2 feels more refined in key areas (steering wheel, seats, solidity) at roughly half the price. Versus the Model Y, it offers better off-road prowess, visibility, storage, and adventure versatility, though the Y feels more road-focused. Gjeebs calls it a "remarkable package" that doesn't feel cheap, praising Rivian's execution on timeline and quality. Minor notes include a quirky horn and louder cooled seats. Overall, the R2 is positioned as a compelling, fun, family-friendly EV that could broaden Rivian's appeal significantly. Long-term testing (efficiency, road trips) is pending, but initial impressions are highly positive.
What is YOUR opinion and does this FINE YOUNG CANNIBAL hurt sales of the OTHER Rivian models for the most part?
We say 90% of ALL people interested in buying a Rivian will buy this. And that's NOT great for their margins and future.