Rivian R2.Credit: Brooke CrothersThe Rivian R2 is here. I got a small taste.A disclaimer: I had the R2 for only about 45 minutes. I focused on testing the Rivian Universal Hands-Free autonomy technology and the ride/performance. (Later, I'm slated to do a more complete review of the R2.)TL;DR: If you want to get into a Rivian, the R2 is a good entry point. One of its best features is its size. Smaller, more nimble, and less expensive than the large three-row R1S. The vehicle autonomy is pretty much the same as the 2nd gen 2026 R1S. The R2 Performance that I test drove – available now – starts at $57,990 and has an EPA rated range of 330 miles.AdvertisementAdvertisement(Note that the R2 that Rivian highlights on its website is $44,990 but not available until late 2027. That has a rated range of 275 miles.)Size and AutonomyI will keep this short because 45 minutes with a car isn't long. The R1S – Rivian's first electric SUV introduced in 2021 – was a good starting point. But the R1S was big. Anything smaller is a good thing. The cheaper, more compact R2 puts Rivian on better competitive footing with the Tesla Model Y. And note that the R2's frunk (front trunk) is bigger than the Model Y's.During my test drive, I focused mostly on the Universal Hands-Free autonomy technology. The Launch package includes a lifetime subscription to Rivian's Autonomy technology. At this stage, I would categorize it as decidedly Level 2. That means the R2 drove itself, more or less, on Interstate 5 in Los Angeles and local roads in Burbank. The self-driving is limited to steering, braking, acceleration, and, on the highway, lane changes. The driver has to stay fully engaged.Rivian's goal is Level 4 (think: robotaxi). The next step is Level 3 – hands-off, eyes-off in certain conditions. Then ultimately Level 4 — full autonomy within geofenced zones, no driver required. That dovetails with Rivian's Uber partnership for R2 robotaxis.The R2 on the right, next to the R1S.R2 (on right) and R1S.Rivian R2 Vs. R1S.RideThe ride was similar to the 2026 R1S (which I tested for a week in April). Rivians have a unique feel, surprisingly refined for an off-road capable vehicle. Acceleration is quick, as expected for a Performance trim. But it didn't feel as nimble and quick as the 2026 Subaru Uncharted – also off-road capable – that I recently tested.Rivian Goes HapticThe Haptic Halo Wheels are a nice addition. The wheels control audio, climate, and drive mode, among other things. With the limited time I had, I would say I prefer physical controls to a touch screen (think: Tesla). Touch screens are fine – up to a point. And the fact that the controls are built into the steering wheel makes them more accessible than a touch screen and allows you to keep your eyes on the road.Conclusion:Again, I go back to size. It's smaller and it's Rivian's future. A mid-size electric SUV that could take Rivian into the (volume) big leagues.Rivian R2 Performance trim vs Tesla Model Y Performance trim.AdvertisementAdvertisementRivian R2.Rivian R2.Rivian R2.Rivian R2.AdvertisementAdvertisementRivian R2.This article was originally published on Forbes.com
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