2027 Rivian R2 First Drive: The Electric SUV That Delivers

Wouter Smit · 2026-06-09

Rivian has finally unveiled its mid-size electric SUV, the 2027 R2, and it’s a game-changer. This isn’t just another EV—it’s a smooth, comfortable, and capable ride that brings impressive range and power to the table. If you’ve been waiting for an electric SUV that feels practical yet thrilling, the R2 might be your answer. ### First Impressions: Smooth and Confident From the moment you get behind the wheel, the R2 feels different. The suspension absorbs bumps like a luxury sedan, but it doesn’t sacrifice the ruggedness Rivian is known for. Acceleration is instant, thanks to the dual-motor setup, and the steering is precise without being twitchy. You can take it on a winding mountain road or a bumpy trail, and it handles both with ease. ### Range and Charging: Real-World Usability Rivian claims the R2 can travel up to 330 miles on a full charge, and in our testing, we saw around 300 miles in mixed driving. That’s solid for a mid-size SUV. Charging is equally impressive: with a 350 kW DC fast charger, you can go from 10% to 80% in about 30 minutes. For daily use, a Level 2 home charger will fill it overnight. ### Interior: Comfort Meets Practicality The cabin is spacious, with room for five adults and their gear. The seats are supportive and heated, and the infotainment system is intuitive. One standout feature is the panoramic glass roof, which makes the interior feel even larger. Storage is clever too—there’s a front trunk (frunk) and under-floor compartments in the back. ### Driving Dynamics: A True All-Rounder - **Acceleration**: 0-60 mph in about 4.5 seconds—quick for an SUV. - **Handling**: Low center of gravity thanks to the battery pack, so it corners flat. - **Off-road capability**: Standard all-wheel drive and up to 9.8 inches of ground clearance. - **Towing**: Can pull up to 7,700 pounds, enough for a small boat or camper. ### How It Compares to Rivals Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the R2 feels more refined and off-road ready. The Ford Mustang Mach-E is sportier but less practical for family trips. And the Hyundai Ioniq 5 offers more tech but lacks the R2’s rugged charm. For the price—starting at $47,000—the R2 strikes a great balance. ### Final Thoughts: Is It Worth the Hype? Yes. The 2027 Rivian R2 delivers on its promises. It’s comfortable enough for daily commutes, capable enough for weekend adventures, and efficient enough to ease range anxiety. If you’re in the market for an electric SUV that doesn’t compromise, this is one to test drive.