Rivian reveals mid-size MY26 R2 SUV and R3 Crossover range

Rivian has unveiled a new midsize battery electric vehicle platform that underpins its new R2, R3, and R3X models, which have the brand’s distinct silhouette and face, with initial customer deliveries expected from mid-2026.

The R2 is an all-new SUV for five occupants. The powered rear glass drops into the liftgate to carry gear and enable an open-air driving experience. It also features first and second-row seating that folds completely flat for vehicle gear, cargo, and camping.

The R3 is a crossover-style vehicle for five occupants that delivers performance, off-road capability, passenger comfort, and storage, according to Rivian. According to the manufacturer, the R3X is a performance variant of the R3, offering even more dynamic abilities on and off the road. 

The R2 and R3 will feature two battery sizes. The larger pack will achieve over 300 miles of range (480km) on a single charge and offer 0-60 mph (0-96km/h) acceleration in under 3 seconds for the quickest powertrain configuration.

Pricing for the R2 is expected to start around U.S. $45,000, and the R3 will be priced below R2, making Rivian vehicles more accessible to more people says the manufacturer. 

The R2 is available to reserve in the U.S. for $100, with deliveries expected to begin in the first half of 2026. 

Deliveries of the R3 and R3X will start after the R2 to ensure a smooth ramp-up. Rivian says this is learning from its simultaneous R1T, R1S and EDV launch. The R2, R3, and R3X will be available internationally following their North American launch.

“I have never been more excited to launch new products – the R2 and R3 are distinctly Rivian in terms of performance, capability, and usability, yet with pricing that makes them accessible to many people,” Rivian founder and chief executive RJ Scaringe says. 

“Our design and engineering teams are extremely focused on driving innovation into not only the product features but also our approach to manufacturing to achieve dramatically lower costs. R2 provides buyers starting in the (U.S.) $45,000 price range with a much-needed choice with a thoroughly developed technology platform bursting with personality. I can’t wait to get these to customers,” he says.

All-new platform

Rivian says the R2 and R3 were built on an all-new midsize vehicle platform that consolidates and eliminates parts, including high-pressure die castings, a structural battery unit where the top of the pack also serves as the floor, and closure systems that dramatically reduce complexity. 

Rivian says it has developed its network architecture, topology of computers and associated complete software platform to facilitate frequent software updates for the R2 and R3.

Leveraging Rivian’s in-house drive unit platform and technology, there will be Single-Motor (RWD), Dual-Motor (AWD), and Tri-Motor (two motors in rear and one in front) configurations.

The structural battery utilises an all-new 4695 cell with significant energy density and output improvements. DC fast charging is compatible with NACS (native) and CCS (with adapter), charging from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes.

Intentional design

According to the Rivian, the R2 and R3 demonstrate how their design language adapts to different vehicle sizes and form factors.

“Our R1 flagship vehicles served as our handshake with the world – with the R2 and R3, our obsessive goal is to stay true to Rivian’s product attributes while making our products accessible to many more people,” Rivian chief design officer Jeff Hammoud says. 

“Through a tight integration of hardware, software and human-centred design, we designed the R2 by balancing form with function while building on our inviting and iconic design language.”