Customer deliveries for the new Rivian R2 officially began in mid-2026. This compact SUV plays a crucial role for the automaker as it aims to capture the mass market. To evaluate the model's real-world performance, Tom Moloughney from the YouTube channel State of Charge conducted a test of a production unit on public highways. The test analyzed the vehicle's efficiency at a constant speed of 70 mph from a full battery down to empty.
The tested vehicle was the Rivian R2 Performance Launch Edition, sporting a striking Catalina Cove paint color and 20-inch wheels outfitted with BFGoodrich 255/60 R20 all-terrain tires. These tires feature a robust tread designed for off-road conditions, which affects the vehicle's highway efficiency. Consequently, the EPA rates this all-terrain version lower than those with standard street tires. The official figures indicate a combined range of 307 miles, a city range of 338 miles, and a highway range of 276 miles.
Prospective R2 buyers have other configurations to explore as production intensifies through late 2026 and into 2027. Those opting for the optional 21-inch wheels with standard all-season tires will see the EPA combined rating rise to 330 miles and the highway rating to 301 miles. Additionally, Rivian plans to introduce single-motor, rear-wheel-drive versions by early 2027, boasting an estimated range of up to 345 miles. A budget-friendly standard range model is expected by mid-2027, featuring a smaller battery pack aimed at achieving at least 275 miles of driving distance.
The Rivian R2 is equipped with a usable battery capacity of 87.9 kWh, although the manufacturer has not disclosed the total gross capacity. In a bid to keep costs manageable for global consumers, engineers selected a traditional 400V electrical system over a pricier 800V alternative. This decision impacts the vehicle's fast charging capabilities, requiring significant electrical currents to achieve rapid charge times. The R2 can handle peak charging power of up to 230 kW, which translates to over 600 amperes at compatible fast chargers.
Instead of a flat, predictable highway, Tom conducted this particular test on Interstate 25 in Colorado, introducing real-world conditions not replicable in laboratory settings. The test began in Colorado Springs at an elevation of 6,499 ft and involved a drive south toward Trinidad, descending to 4,600 ft before returning to the starting point, requiring the R2 to tackle a total vertical elevation change of more than 2,198 ft twice during the run.
The journey was further influenced by changing weather conditions. Initially, wind levels were minimal at just 3 mph, but a sudden cross-headwind surged to 18 mph during the uphill segment. Temperatures dropped to {{12ºC}}, prompting the driver to activate the cabin heater, set to {{21ºC}} on the lowest fan speed to minimize climate-related energy usage.
The trip provided valuable insights into how altitude and terrain influence modern EVs. During the battery's first quarter, the vehicle covered 72.1 miles downhill, achieving excellent efficiency at 3 miles per kWh. However, in the second quarter, the drive uphill against strong winds led to a sharp decline in distance covered, dropping to just 58.1 miles with efficiency worsening to 2.8 miles per kWh. The third quarter saw some energy recovery, covering 70.8 miles as the route flattened.
The SUV ultimately returned to the charging station with exactly 1% of battery charge remaining. The digital instrument panel indicated a remaining driving range of 4 miles, with the trip odometer recording a total distance of 259.4 miles. Had the driver fully depleted the battery, the projected highway range under the test conditions would be approximately 264 miles.
While some critics may be disappointed that the R2 did not meet its official highway range estimate, many drivers will view these results as a success. Conquering steep mountain passes and battling headwinds on all-terrain tires will naturally affect efficiency. Under optimal conditions on a flat highway, the Rivian R2 is likely to match or exceed its official government highway range figures.
You can watch the full test here:
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