Rivian to debut new SUV models from 2026

MAKING good on a promise to build more affordable models than the R1T pick-up, Amazon and Ford backed specialist BEV manufacturer Rivian has announced the early 2026 production of three new SUVs called the R2, R3 and R3X that start in price from US$45,000 (A$68,000) for the R2 with the R3 expected to be priced lower.

 

All share Rivian styling cues including the cartoonish face and boxy body.

 

And all three five seat, mid-size SUVs share the same new platform that consolidates and eliminates parts thanks to “intelligent design” including the use of high pressure die castings, a structural battery unit where the top of the pack also serves as the floor, and closure systems that dramatically reduce complexity (and cost).

 

The new models also utilise Rivian’s drive unit platform and internally developed network architecture, computer topology and software stack.

 

The first new model to roll off Rivian’s Normal, Illinois production line will be the R2 for which Rivian claims it is holding 68,000 reservations of $100.

 

Rivian says the R2 delivers a combination of performance, capability and utility in a five-seat package optimized for big adventures and everyday use.

 

“The silhouette and face of R2 are distinctly Rivian and the powered rear glass fully drops into the ‘liftgate’ for carrying all types of gear enabling a unique open air driving experience,” the US manufacturer said in a statement.

 

According to Rivian literature on the new models, the R2’s interior is designed for ease-of-use, while being uniquely Rivian through a combination of inviting design and premium, sustainable materials that are easy to clean.

 

The R2’s first and second row seats fold completely flat, for gear, cargo, and (even) car camping.

 

The R3 is a (smaller, sportier) mid-size crossover that is “tidy on dimensions but delivers big in terms of performance, off-road capability, passenger comfort, and storage” while the R3X is a performance variant of R3 offering even more dynamic abilities both on- and off road.

 

Two battery sizes will be available with the larger pack claimed to be capable of a 480km range on a single charge and facilitate a 0-100km/h acceleration time circa three seconds or better for the quickest powertrain configuration.

 

Three motor variants will be available leveraging Rivian’s existing powertrains: a single-motor (RWD), dual-motor (AWD), and tri-motor (two motors in rear and one in front) AWD, with the quickest configuration delivering that rapid 0-100km/h time.

 

The structural battery utilises a new 4695-cell offering that delivers significant improvements in energy density and output, estimated to deliver over 480km for both R2 and R3.

 

DC fast charging is compatible with both NACS (native) and CCS (with adapter), charging from 10- to 80 per cent in less than 30 minutes (claimed).

 

Other technologies aboard the new Rivians include self-driving capability using Rivian’s new perception stack featuring 11 cameras, five radars and a more powerful computer platform that may allow the R2 and R3 to provide dramatically enhanced autonomous capabilities.

 

Additional to that are improving and expanding features accessed through Rivian’s network architecture, the topology of computers and associated full software platform to facilitate frequent software updates and provide the “headroom” for feature growth over time.

 

Rivian’s cheaper pricing is designed to make its vehicles more accessible to more people unerringly targeting Tesla models and other BEV makers.

 

In the new model announcement last week, Rivian said its development teams have been intensely focused on cost through manufacturing, design innovation, and robust supply chain development while at the same time working to ensure a smooth launch and rapid ramp of R2 and supplementary models.

 

It is intended the R2, R3, R3X will be available internationally following their North American launch says Rivian. No clarity as to their availability Down Under has been proffered.

 

“I have never been more excited to launch new products – R2 and R3 are distinctly Rivian in terms of performance, capability, and usability, yet with pricing that makes them accessible to a lot of people,” said Rivian founder and CEO R J Scaringe.

 

“Our design and engineering teams are extremely focused on driving innovation into not only the product features but also our approach to manufacturing to achieve dramatically lower costs.

 

“The R2 provides buyers starting in the $45,000 price range with a much-needed choice with a thoroughly developed technology platform that is bursting with personality. I can’t wait to get these to customers.”