Meet the Rivian R2, R3, and R3X.
Rivian surprised everyone today by not just unveiling their promised R2 SUV, a smaller sibling to the R1S, but in a "1.5 more things" moment also unveiled a smaller crossover hatchback called the R3 and its rally-looking performance variant the R3X.
First up is the Rivian R2, a handsome small SUV that is distinctly Rivian, sharing many of the same design cues as its pricier siblings. The R2 came with its own surprises, as leaks reported a starting price of $47,500 but was today revealed to be even less - starting at an estimated $45,000. No word yet on whether this or the R3 models will qualify for the tax credit by the time they reach the market. That's a compelling price, more than a Tesla Model Y but less than a Jeep Wrangler 4XE PHEV. We suspect the rugged R2 will entice a few buyers away from both.
The R2 has plenty of adventure-inspired goodness, from a rear-window that retracts to allow the carry of surfboards or skis, seats that fold flat not just in the second row but also in the first - perfect for camping, and a flashlight in the door that doubles as entry lighting. It also features a large frunk big enough for carry-on luggage, not one but two glove boxes in the front under-dash, and a wide-aperture rear hatch opening.
The R2 is expected to reach the market in the first half of 2026, with reservations opening today. It will be produced in Rivian's current factory in Normal, IL.
The R3 is a smaller crossover that's more reminiscent of a high-riding hatchback, with 4 doors and a nifty feature that raises the rear glass to user-adjustable heights, allowing the carry of oversized kit on the move. While less info was offered on the R3, we know it shares a platform with the R2 and we can presume similar specs. We know that the R3 inherits the same fold-flat seats in front and rear for camping, and will also include the large frunk and flashlights.
The word "rally" wasn't mentioned on stage during the unveil, but the R3X is clearly inspired by it, with images of it speeding down a dirt track with its additional ride height, off-road cladding and tri-motor performance specs. The R3X is said to have beefier tires and custom interior options.
Pricing and availability wasn't announced on the R3 models, but they will come after the R2.
Rivian also teased a bundle of in-house accessories for all 3 models, including roof and rear bike racks, rooftop tents, and a portable camp kitchen that somehow attaches to the rear of the vehicle and uses onboard power.
