Rivian’s new R2 electric SUV is off to a stronger-than-expected start, with demand for its launch edition exceeding expectations and the automaker raising its 2026 delivery guidance. The midsize electric crossover has quickly become Rivian’s best-selling model, while more affordable versions are scheduled to arrive in the coming months.
Rivian R2 Gets a Strong Start
Deliveries of the Rivian R2 began in June, with the company initially launching its highest-priced Performance trim before introducing the rest of the lineup.
The strategy appears to be paying off. Rivian CEO RJ Scaringe discussed the SUV’s early performance during the company’s third-quarter earnings call, highlighting stronger-than-expected customer demand.
“Reservation conversion rates for the launch edition R2 remained higher in the quarter than our expectations,” Scaringe said. “R2 continues to generate rave reviews and awards from media.”
Following the positive response, Rivian raised its overall delivery guidance for 2026 to 67,000–70,000 vehicles.
The R2 was Rivian’s best-selling model in the third quarter, outperforming both the R1T pickup and the R1S full-size SUV.
Rivian R2 Performance Starts at $59,485
The R2 Performance with the Launch Package carries a starting price of $59,485, including delivery.
Rivian’s decision to introduce the more expensive version first is intended to support profitability as production increases and additional trims join the lineup.
“We’ve been able to very intentionally sequence the nature of launching with a high price variant and then bringing in these other trims as our volume grows, such that in the end it supports a healthy, positive gross margin for the R2 business,” Scaringe said.
When Will Rivian Launch the Other R2 Trims?
Rivian plans to expand the R2 lineup with two additional versions: the mid-tier Premium trim and the entry-level Standard model.
The R2 Premium is expected to arrive later this year, with a starting MSRP of $55,485. Rivian has not confirmed a specific launch date.
The base R2 Standard is scheduled to debut next summer with a starting price of $46,485.
The staggered launch will allow Rivian to introduce lower-priced versions as production grows, while extending the rollout of its new electric SUV.
Rivian R2 Momentum Builds Ahead of Wider Launch
The R2’s early sales performance has given Rivian a stronger-than-expected start for its new midsize electric SUV. With the Premium and Standard trims still to come, the company is preparing to expand the lineup beyond its initial high-performance model.
Rivian’s revised 2026 delivery guidance and strong launch-edition demand highlight the R2’s early momentum as the automaker prepares for its next production and sales phase.
