Rivian R2 First Drive Review: 656 HP, Off-Road Ready, and Half the Price?

Automobile Identity
Automobile Identity
Sep 7, 2026

MotorTrend Channel tagged products below. Learn more

Bfgoodrich Trail-Terrain T/A All-Season 235/60r18/xl 107h Tire Fits: 2017-19 Honda Cr-v Ex-l, 2018-22 Honda Odyssey Ex-l, Black
Limited delivery areas
walmart.com/ip/BFGoodrich-Trail-Terrain-T-A-All-Terrain-235-60R18-107H-XL-Passenger-Tire/309806135?wmlspartner=wlpa&selectedSellerId=101652915&selectedOfferId=1DA4F6C47C0439BFB81FB946AF15145A&conditionGroupCode=1&veh=seo_fpl&cn=google
Rivian’s newest SUV is smaller, lighter, and far more affordable — but does it still feel like a Rivian? We take an early first drive of the Rivian R2 prototype, putting it through its paces on California highways and rough off-road terrain near Rivian’s headquarters in Irvine.

With 656 horsepower, a new AWD setup, and a unibody construction, the R2 promises the same adventure-ready DNA as the R1 in a more accessible package. We dig into how Rivian cut weight and cost, how the suspension and drive modes behave on road, and whether the R2 still delivers the off-road capability Rivian is known for.

Check out the full story here: https://www.motortrend.com/preview/re...

0:00 First Drive Intro – Rivian R2 Prototype
0:23 Hitting the Road: Highway Driving First Impressions
0:53 Power & Handling in Corners
1:29 How Rivian Cut the Price in Half vs R1
2:18 R2 Launch Model Power, Torque & AWD Setup
3:06 On-Road Handling, Tires & Steering Feel
3:51 Drive Modes Explained: All-Purpose vs Sport
4:49 Switching to Off-Road Mode
5:43 Off-Road Suspension, Clearance & Angles
6:35 Traction Control, Cameras & Trail Tech
7:18 Trail Maneuverability & Wheelbase Advantages
7:51 Rivian Adventure Gear & Camping Accessories
8:55 Final Verdict: Is the Rivian R2 Worth It?


MotorTrend is the ultimate destination for gearheads looking for the latest automotive research and news.

Find the right car, truck or suv for you.
➡️: https://www.motortrend.com/car-finder


Follow MotorTrend for the latest!

MotorTrend News: https://www.motortrend.com
Facebook: / motortrend
Instagram: / motortrend
Twitter(X): / motortrend
TikTok: / motortrend

MotorTrend preferred music partner: Universal Production Music

MotorTrend is a fully owned subsidiary of Hearst Communications Inc.