Rivian released important details on its upcoming R2 SUV. The R2 electric vehicle could be a game changer for the company as the most affordable model.
Tesla has sold millions of Model Y electric SUV units since the nameplate’s debut. Rivian has an opportunity with the R2 to create a true Tesla Model Y rival the likes of which the industry has not yet seen. Several Model Y challengers have stepped forward, but all-electric SUVs have lagged behind in terms of sales and overall value.
Is the Rivian R2 the Model Y rival that the industry and electric vehicle fans have been waiting for? Here’s how the two compare.
Rivian R2 has a lot of expectations based on the released specifications
Rivian kept its promise to make a more affordable electric SUV. Pricing for the R2 starts at around $45,000 (but the Launch Edition is more expensive at $57,990).
The R2 produces 350 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque. It can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds. The standard driving range of the EV is more than 275 miles.
Exact charging times haven’t been announced, but Rivian estimates the EV can charge from 10% to 80% in 29 minutes, which is quick for its segment.
The affordable base model of the R2 may not be available as quickly as the upper trims, but it offers solid value for money (on paper).
Tesla Model Y remains undefeated in electric SUV sales
According to Cox Automotive, Tesla’s electric SUV is the undisputed sales champion with 357,528 units sold in the US in 2025.
The Tesla Model Y starts at $39,990 before taxes, fees, and incentives. It produces 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The electric SUV accelerates from 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds.
The base model rear-wheel drive trim has an estimated drive of 321 miles, which is great for its segment and price. Using a Tesla Supercharger it charges from 10%-80% in about 24-26 minutes.
Rivian R2 vs Tesla Model Y: Specifications
The Model Y is slightly more affordable than the upcoming Rivian R2 electric SUV. When it comes to power and acceleration, the R2 is the better EV.
It produces 55 more horsepower and 45 pound-feet more torque than the Model Y. The R2 is even faster from 0-60 mph than the Model Y, making it more enjoyable to drive.
Tesla’s electric SUV has a range of more than 46 miles in the most affordable trim, which is a big deal for electric car buyers. In a world where charging infrastructure still has a long way to go, this puts the Model Y in a significant position over the Rivian R2.
Both vehicles charge fast by today’s standards, but Tesla’s Supercharger is specifically designed with Tesla charging ports in mind, making the session extremely convenient for Model Y owners.
Rivian R2 vs Tesla Model Y: Design
The R2 takes many design cues from its older brother, the R1 electric SUV. One significant design difference between the Rivian R2 and the Tesla Model Y is ground clearance.
Electric vehicle news site InsideEVs says Rivian’s R2 electric SUV has an incredible 9.6 inches of ground clearance without air suspension. This is almost three inches more ground clearance than the Model Y, indicating a distinct difference in body style.
Rivian says its EV is “designed for adventure” on its website. In other words, the Rivian is one of the few EVs built with off-roading and trails in mind. The R2 embodies this ethos and is best suited for drivers who want a performance electric vehicle that is capable of taking the road less traveled by.
If you’re an average driver and looking for one of the most affordable electric SUV options, the Tesla Model Y is a wise and practical choice. If you want to experience the software, capability and driving experience that is exclusive to Rivian vehicles, the R2 is worth the wait.
Rivian’s R2 is a true Tesla Model Y rival, but in the eyes of the average American driver it may not be a better choice. If you want an EV that’s capable of performing incredible feats and zooming up to 60 mph, the R2 is a better buy.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y: Which electric SUV offers more for the money?
Reporting by Charles Singh, USA TODAY/USA TODAY
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect