AUSTIN, Texas — Just hours before its official global reveal at the SXSW festival, Rivian’s highly anticipated mass-market SUV has been caught in a major digital slip-up. A technical glitch on Wednesday briefly exposed the full production specifications and pricing for the Rivian R2, confirming that the electric vehicle startup is ready to take a direct swing at the Tesla Model Y.
According to the leaked data, which was first spotted on the company’s own website before being scrubbed, the Rivian R2 will arrive in three primary configurations. While the company previously targeted a $45,000 entry point, the initial “Performance Launch Edition” will carry a sticker price of $57,990.
Performance and Range Details
The leaked documents reveal that the top-tier Performance trim will be a powerhouse, boasting 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque from a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system. This variant is equipped with an 87.9 kWh battery pack, delivering an estimated 330 miles of range. For drivers in a hurry, the R2 will support fast-charging capabilities that can juice the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 29 minutes.
Lower down the ladder, a “Premium” trim is expected to follow in late 2026 with the same battery but a dialed-back 450 horsepower, priced at $53,990. The most affordable version, a Single Motor RWD model with a smaller battery and 265 miles of range, is still slated for the $45,000 price bracket but isn’t expected to hit American driveways until late 2027.
Built for the American Outdoors
True to Rivian’s adventurous DNA, the Rivian R2 includes several “Easter eggs” designed for US campers and weekend warriors. The leaks confirm the return of the popular “pet mode” and a signature rear window that fully retracts into the tailgate—a feature intended to make hauling long gear like surfboards or lumber much easier.
The vehicle measures 185.9 inches in length, making it significantly more maneuverable in urban environments than its larger sibling, the R1S, while still offering 9.6 inches of ground clearance for off-road excursions.
The Road to Profitability
This launch is widely viewed by Wall Street analysts as a “make-or-break” moment for the Illinois-based automaker. Rivian has already begun assembling validation builds at its Normal, Illinois factory, with full-scale customer deliveries expected to begin in early 2026.
By streamlining its electronics and using a single high-compute “brain” for the vehicle’s Autonomy+ system, Rivian aims to slash production costs and finally turn a profit.
The official unveiling is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. ET today in downtown Austin, where CEO RJ Scaringe is expected to address the leaked figures and open the reservation books to the public.
Rivian R2 Launch Details
- Performance Launch Edition: $57,990 (330-mile range)
- Premium Trim: $53,990 (Late 2026)
- Standard Entry Model: $45,000 (Late 2027)
- Key Feature: Retractable rear glass and fold-flat interior seating.
