First Drive: The 2027 Rivian R2 entirely changes the EV game
Summary
The Rivian R2 is a new midsize EV aimed at mainstream buyers, featuring cost-saving design choices, a 4,998 lb weight, and a sub-$60,000 Launch Edition with up to 345 miles of range (Long Range variant) and 656 hp. Rivian downsizes wiring, sticks with a 400 V architecture, adds a brake-by-wire system, and introduces a software-defined, AI-defined vehicle with a high-performance infotainment stack and Halo physical controls. The vehicle prioritizes on-road comfort and efficiency at the expense of some off-road capability, while delivering a compelling price-to-performance proposition and new cockpit/interface features.