2027 Rivian R2 Performance First Drive- When Smaller is a Big Deal.
About this episode
Rivian R2 arrives with a hands-on first drive at a Bellevue showroom—more “test drive observations” than a press event. The dual-motor Performance trim delivers 656 hp and 609 lb-ft, with 330-mile EPA range and an 87.9 kWh battery. Key takeaways: excellent visibility, comfortable ride, responsive screens, and strong measured acceleration with regen that can slow aggressively (no regen blend—braking uses physical discs). Practicality stands out with a front trunk, power ports, a power-opening rear window, and flexible cargo space. Pricing starts in the mid-$40k for RWD, with Performance around the high-$50k and NACS fast charging slated for 2027.
The wait is finally over. The all-new 2027 Rivian R2 is one of the most anticipated electric vehicles on the market, and I got behind the wheel of the flagship Dual Motor Performance model during a test drive in Bellevue, Washington.
This is not my normal video review. It's a consumer test drive much like you would take, only a lot more cameras stuck all around the vehicle.
In this first-drive review, Rivian's Dan Lake walks us through the new R2 before I hit the road for a real-world drive and share my impressions. I'll also cover pricing, range, charging, cargo space, interior features, off-road capability, and what separates R2 from its larger sibling, the R1S.
The R2 Performance packs 656 horsepower and 609 lb-ft of torque, offers an EPA-estimated 330 miles of range, and starts in the high-$50,000 range. Rivian hopes this smaller, more affordable SUV will bring the brand to a much larger audience.
Rivian R2
"The Rivian R2 is finally here and you can bop down to a Rivian showroom and test drive one yourself... Yeah, we have our 2027 Rivian R2 here in Glacier White."
The Rivian R2 is Rivian’s electric SUV. In this part of the episode, they talk about the performance version, how much range it’s rated for, and the battery size—so you get a sense of what it’s like to live with and drive.
The Rivian R2 is an all-electric compact SUV from Rivian, and this segment focuses on its real-world first-drive details. The host highlights the R2’s dual-motor performance version, its EPA-rated range, and the shared battery pack across trims—key specs that define how it drives and how it fits into daily life.
dual-motor performance setup
"The dual-motor performance setup that I'm driving makes 656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque."
“Dual-motor” means the car has two electric motors working together. That usually helps the car launch hard and grip the road better, and here it’s the version producing the big power numbers.
A dual-motor setup uses two electric motors—typically one driving each axle—to improve acceleration and traction. In this case, the host ties it directly to the R2’s performance output numbers (656 horsepower and 609 pound-feet of torque).
EPA rated
"It and the less powerful premium trim are both EPA rated at 330 miles and all R2s get the same battery pack..."
“EPA rated” is the official U.S. test used to estimate how far an EV can go on a full charge. Your real range may be different, but it’s the same kind of test for comparing cars.
“EPA rated” refers to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s standardized testing method for estimating electric vehicle range. It’s a consistent way to compare range claims across different EVs, even though real-world mileage can vary with speed, weather, and driving style.
battery pack
"...and all R2s get the same battery pack, sized at 87.9 kilowatt-hours."
The battery pack is the big rechargeable battery inside the EV. Here, Rivian says every R2 uses the same battery size (87.9 kWh), which helps explain why the range ratings are similar across trims.
A battery pack is the EV’s main energy storage module, made up of many individual cells grouped together. The host notes that all Rivian R2s share the same battery pack size—87.9 kilowatt-hours—so range differences come more from motors/efficiency than from battery capacity.
87.9 kilowatt-hours
"...all R2s get the same battery pack, sized at 87.9 kilowatt-hours."
“Kilowatt-hours” (kWh) is a way to measure how much energy the battery can store. More kWh usually means you can go farther, but how you drive and the car’s efficiency still matter.
Kilowatt-hours (kWh) measure the amount of electrical energy stored in the battery pack. A larger kWh number generally means more potential range, though real-world results also depend on efficiency, weight, tires, and driving conditions.
front trunk
"As we do a walk around here, I'll show you a little bit of how the front trunk opens up."
A front trunk is extra storage up front. Since EVs don’t have a conventional engine sitting there, manufacturers can use that space for luggage or groceries.
An EV “front trunk” (often called a frunk) is storage space in the front of the vehicle. Because electric cars don’t need a traditional engine bay, the front area can be packaged as usable cargo space.
soft close
"It's just a touch of the button right there up and then a manual close with a soft close at the end."
“Soft close” means the hatch or door doesn’t slam shut. Instead, it guides itself closed smoothly and gently at the end.
A “soft close” mechanism uses dampers or controlled latching to pull a door or hatch gently into its fully closed position. It reduces slam force and can improve perceived build quality and ease of use.
compact spare
"just a sensor, giving way to quite a bit of space in the back room for an awesome compact spare back here or some more storage."
A compact spare is a smaller temporary spare tire. It’s meant to help you drive a limited distance after a flat until you can get the main tire repaired or replaced.
A compact spare is a smaller, lighter temporary spare tire intended for short-distance use after a puncture. It’s usually not meant for the same speed or distance limits as a full-size tire, so it’s a “get you home” solution.
1500 watt capable
"And obviously a power source, 12-volt, 120, 1500 watt capable auto down as well."
“1500 watts capable” tells you how much power the car’s outlet can supply. That helps you judge what kinds of devices you can run from it safely.
“1500 watt capable” describes the maximum power output the vehicle’s power outlet can provide to connected devices. Higher wattage generally means you can run more demanding accessories (within the outlet’s limits) without overloading it.
12-volt
"And obviously a power source, 12-volt, 120, 1500 watt capable auto down as well."
Even though the car is electric, it still has a 12-volt electrical system for everyday electronics like lights and screens. Here they’re pointing out a 12-volt power source for accessories.
A 12-volt system in an EV powers accessories like lights, infotainment, and control modules, similar to a conventional car’s electrical system. The host mentions it as part of the vehicle’s power outlets, which are useful for small electronics and accessories.
one touch raise
"[142.8s] And then a new feature for the Rivian line is the ability to bring down the back window. [150.3s] Super fun on a hot day like today, get some airflow in there and then a one touch raise as well. [156.3s] Everybody likes that."
One-touch raise means you can open or close a window with just one tap, without holding the button. It’s a convenience feature that helps you quickly adjust airflow.
A one-touch window function lets you fully open or close a window with a single press, rather than holding the switch. Here, it’s described as part of the R2’s new feature for lowering the back window, making it easier to quickly get airflow.
gauge cluster
"[157.5s] Yeah. At this point, my mic shorted out, so to paraphrase Dan, there are two screens. [164.5s] Thanks for the gauge cluster, Rivian. [167.3s] R2 has a limited number of hard controls."
The gauge cluster is the screen or panel behind the steering wheel that shows your key driving info like speed and battery status. The host is saying Rivian’s version is good.
The gauge cluster is the driver’s instrument display behind the steering wheel, typically showing speed, battery state, and other vehicle information. The host thanks Rivian for the gauge cluster, suggesting it’s clear or well-designed in the R2.
hard controls
"[164.5s] Thanks for the gauge cluster, Rivian. [167.3s] R2 has a limited number of hard controls. [170.8s] Stuff like the steering wheel position and mirrors are done by selecting them on the [175.5s] interface screen and then making adjustments using the steering wheel controls."
Hard controls are the physical buttons and knobs in a car. The host is saying the R2 uses fewer physical controls and relies more on the screen to adjust settings.
Hard controls are physical buttons and knobs you can use without going through menus on a screen. The host says the R2 has a limited number of hard controls, meaning more functions (like mirror and steering-wheel position) are adjusted through the interface.
flat floors
"[180.3s] There's a good amount of storage space, even though this is smaller than R1. [185.1s] Flat floors are good for storing purses and backpacks. [189.1s] The tray keeps them from sliding around."
Flat floors mean the area where your feet and storage sit is mostly level, not bumpy. The host likes it because it makes it easier to store bags and keep them from moving around.
Flat floors refer to a cabin floor design with minimal hump or raised sections, which makes it easier to place items and move around inside. The host ties it to storage practicality in the R2, saying it’s good for carrying bags without them sliding.
Apple CarPlay
"[189.1s] The tray keeps them from sliding around. [191.4s] Plus, there's an extra little cubby and two bins on the dashboard where most cars have one, right? [198.5s] Android Auto and Apple CarPlay do not happen in Rivians, but it is possible to make calls, [204.9s] send texts, and access music through your Spotify account natively using the interface."
Apple CarPlay lets you connect an iPhone to your car so you can use certain apps on the car’s screen. The host is saying Rivian doesn’t support CarPlay in this setup.
Apple CarPlay is a smartphone-to-car system that brings compatible iPhone apps (like Maps and music) onto the vehicle’s infotainment display. The host notes it isn’t available in Rivian vehicles here, implying the R2 uses its own interface approach instead of CarPlay.
Android Auto
"[189.1s] The tray keeps them from sliding around. [191.4s] Plus, there's an extra little cubby and two bins on the dashboard where most cars have one, right? [198.5s] Android Auto and Apple CarPlay do not happen in Rivians, but it is possible to make calls, [204.9s] send texts, and access music through your Spotify account natively using the interface."
Android Auto is a way to connect your Android phone to a car so you can use certain apps on the car’s screen. The host is saying Rivian doesn’t support that feature in this car.
Android Auto is a smartphone-to-car system that mirrors selected apps and navigation onto the vehicle’s infotainment screen. In this segment, the host says it doesn’t happen in Rivians, meaning the R2’s interface doesn’t support that specific integration.
ride quality
"[254.7s] All right. First impressions. [258.5s] Visibility is excellent. Large windows. The ride quality is comfortable. [266.5s] And the steering is a little on the light side and feels, I don't know, a little bit [276.3s] trucky."
Ride quality is how comfortable the car feels when the road is rough. The host is saying the R2 feels smooth and not too bouncy.
Ride quality is how smooth or controlled the car feels over bumps and uneven roads, influenced by suspension tuning and tire behavior. The host says the R2’s ride quality is comfortable, indicating the suspension doesn’t feel harsh in everyday driving.
steering is a little on the light side
"[258.5s] Visibility is excellent. Large windows. The ride quality is comfortable. [266.5s] And the steering is a little on the light side and feels, I don't know, a little bit [276.3s] trucky. I was playing with the screen here."
“Light” steering feel means the steering effort is low, so the wheel doesn’t require much force to turn. The host also compares it to a “trucky” feel, suggesting the R2’s steering weight and response are tuned more for easy maneuvering than for heavy, sporty feedback.
regen
"there's always regen on this. So if you like one pedal driving, then that's great... when I take my foot off the throttle, it slows down fairly aggressively."
Regen is the way an electric car slows down and recharges its battery when you lift off the gas. It can make the car feel like it brakes more by itself.
Regen (regenerative braking) is how an EV slows down and recovers energy when you lift off the accelerator or brake. The host says the R2 has “always regen,” which affects how strongly the car slows when you take your foot off the throttle.
one pedal driving
"there's always regen on this. So if you like one pedal driving, then that's great. If you don't like one pedal driving, well, then that might be an issue."
One pedal driving is an EV driving style where lifting off the accelerator provides enough deceleration that you can do most slowing without using the brake pedal. The host notes the R2’s regen behavior makes it work well if you like that style, but could be an issue if you prefer coasting or lighter lift-off deceleration.
physical disc brakes
"If you're using the brake pedal, you're using the physical disc brakes. Oh, you know, one thing that's really good about this..."
Physical disc brakes are the conventional brake system that uses brake pads clamping onto rotors to create friction and slow the vehicle. The host contrasts them with regen to explain what happens when you press the brake pedal on the Rivian R2.
Ford Expedition
"Oh, one thing that's really good about this, it's not huge... I just came out of a Ford expedition, which was ginormous. This is big enough so that you could put five people in it..."
The Ford Expedition is a big SUV. The host compares it to the Rivian R2 to show that the R2 is easier to live with in the city while still fitting five people.
The Ford Expedition is a large, full-size SUV. The host uses it as a size comparison to explain that the Rivian R2 feels “just right” for city driving—big enough for five people, but not as bulky as the Expedition.
charge speed
"I don't know that you really need any more range than that... And the charge speed is pretty decent. Also, Nax."
Charge speed is how fast the car can recharge at a charging station. Faster charge speed usually means less time waiting during road trips.
Charge speed describes how quickly an EV can add energy at a charger, typically influenced by the battery’s charging limits and the charger’s power output. The host says the R2’s charge speed is “pretty decent,” implying practical convenience for longer trips.
CCS
"Also, Nax. It's not CCS, it's Nax. Yep, got to get back."
CCS is a common type of fast-charging plug for many electric cars. The host is saying this car isn’t using the CCS standard.
CCS (Combined Charging System) is a common fast-charging standard for many EVs in North America and Europe. The host says “It’s not CCS,” indicating the Rivian R2 uses a different charging connector/standard in this context.
Nax
"Also, Nax. It's not CCS, it's Nax. Yep, got to get back."
Nax is the charging setup the host says the car uses instead of CCS. The exact meaning (what plug/network it is) isn’t fully explained in this snippet.
Nax is referenced as the charging standard/connector the host says the car uses instead of CCS. Because the transcript doesn’t spell out what Nax stands for, listeners may need clarification on what charging network or plug type it corresponds to.
level one charging
"But if you're only driving 30, 40 miles in a day, level one, if you charge up every night, we'll get you back up to a full battery by morning."
Level 1 charging is the slow way to charge an EV at home using a normal outlet. It’s fine if you don’t drive far each day and can plug it in overnight.
Level 1 charging is the slowest common home charging method, typically using a standard household outlet. It’s measured in hours to refill the battery, so it works best for drivers with short daily mileage who can charge overnight.
level two charging
"And you don't really need to have level two charging. Yes, it's a lot more convenient."
Level 2 charging is the faster home charging option that usually needs a special charger installed. It helps if you need to recharge more quickly than overnight outlet charging.
Level 2 charging is a faster home charging setup that uses dedicated EV charging equipment and higher voltage than a standard outlet. It’s typically used when you need quicker turnaround times or drive longer daily distances.
Cadillac Lyric
"... measured acceleration, sort of like the Cadillac Lyric pricing. Well, the only version available right n..."
The Cadillac Lyriq is an electric SUV, so it uses a battery and an electric motor instead of a gas engine. The podcast mentions how it accelerates and that only some versions are available at the time of the discussion. That’s important because it affects what you can buy and what kind of driving performance you’ll get.
The Cadillac Lyriq is an all-electric SUV from Cadillac, and it’s often discussed in terms of performance and how it fits into the brand’s pricing and trim lineup. In the podcast context, the conversation references acceleration testing and mentions that only certain versions are available right now, which matters because availability can affect what buyers can actually purchase. It’s a common review subject because electric SUVs are evaluated heavily on driving feel, speed, and the practicality of the available configurations.
dual motor all wheel drive
"Well, the only version available right now is the dual motor all wheel drive performance trim starting in the high 50 grand range"
Dual motor all-wheel drive means the car has two electric motors and can send power to all four wheels. That can make it grip better and feel quicker, especially when accelerating.
Dual motor all wheel drive means the EV uses two electric motors—typically one for the front axle and one for the rear—so power can be sent to all wheels. This usually improves traction and can help performance by delivering torque more precisely.
DC fast charging
"Look for that in the summer of 2027 with its Naxport DC fast charging is rated at 29 minutes from 10 to 80%."
DC fast charging is the quick-charging method for EVs. It can refill the battery much faster than home charging, especially on road trips.
DC fast charging is a high-power method that charges an EV using direct current, allowing much faster refills than typical home charging. The host cites a time estimate from 10% to 80%, which is a common way to describe real-world fast-charging performance.
ground clearance
"This flagship R2 performance has 9.6 inches of ground clearance. So off-roading."
Ground clearance is how much space the car has between the ground and the bottom of the vehicle. More clearance helps when roads are bumpy or uneven.
Ground clearance is the distance between the road surface and the lowest part of the vehicle’s underbody. More clearance helps reduce the chance of scraping on rough roads and makes it easier to handle mild off-road or uneven terrain.
semi-active suspension
"It comes standard with a semi-active suspension and model specific drive modes."
Semi-active suspension is a suspension system that can adjust how stiff or soft the ride feels. The goal is to be comfortable normally but more controlled when you drive more aggressively.
Semi-active suspension can adjust damping characteristics to change ride and handling behavior without fully replacing the suspension system. It’s meant to balance comfort and control by adapting to driving conditions and selected modes.
drive modes
"It comes standard with a semi-active suspension and model specific drive modes."
Drive modes are presets that change how the car behaves. For example, one mode might feel smoother and efficient, while another feels more responsive.
Drive modes are selectable settings that change how the vehicle responds—often including throttle mapping, steering feel, traction control behavior, and sometimes suspension and regen characteristics. They let the driver tailor the car for comfort, efficiency, or sportier response.
heated and vented seats
"These are functional heated and vented seats are standard."
Heated seats warm you up, and vented seats blow air to keep you cooler. It’s a comfort feature that helps in both winter and summer.
Heated seats warm the cabin quickly in cold weather, while vented seats use fans to pull air through the seat to cool you in hot conditions. Together, they improve comfort across a wide range of climates.
semi-autonomous driving package
"The first run of R2 performances get a launch package with green paint, a 4,400 pound tow package, and a lifetime subscription to Rivian semi-autonomous driving package."
This is a set of driver-assist features that can help with parts of driving, like staying in the lane or maintaining distance. You still have to pay attention and be ready to take control.
A semi-autonomous driving package refers to driver-assistance features that can handle certain tasks (like lane keeping or adaptive cruise) while still requiring the driver to supervise and be ready to take over. The “package” wording implies a bundled set of hardware and software capabilities.
tow package
"The first run of R2 performances get a launch package with green paint, a 4,400 pound tow package, and a lifetime subscription to Rivian semi-autonomous driving package."
A tow package is the set of parts that lets the vehicle tow a trailer. It usually includes the hitch and the wiring so the trailer lights and systems work properly.
A tow package is an option or included equipment bundle that enables towing safely and legally. It commonly includes a hitch and wiring for a trailer, and may also involve cooling and control calibration to handle the extra load.
launch package
"The first run of R2 performances get a launch package with green paint, a 4,400 pound tow package, and a lifetime subscription"
A launch package is an early-batch bundle of extras included with the first cars. Here, it includes special paint and towing-related equipment.
A launch package is a limited early-production bundle that combines specific appearance and equipment items. In this segment, it’s tied to the first run of R2 Performance and includes items like paint and towing equipment.
nine speaker audio system
"and a lifetime subscription to Rivian semi-autonomous driving package. I did not test that or the nine speaker audio system."
A nine-speaker sound system means there are nine speakers in the car. That can help the audio sound fuller and more spread out.
A nine speaker audio system indicates the number of individual speaker drivers in the cabin. More speakers can allow better sound staging and coverage, especially if the system includes separate channels for bass and mid/high frequencies.
Rivian R1
"Next time. R2 clearly has the same parents as R1. In fact, I watched a few customers that were briefly confused as to which was which..."
Rivian R1 is Rivian’s bigger electric-vehicle line. The host is using it as a reference point to explain that the R2 shares a similar look and vibe, just in a smaller package.
Rivian R1 refers to the brand’s larger electric vehicle family that the R2 is being compared against. The host says the R2 has the “same parents” as the R1, meaning the design language and overall feel are closely related even though the R2 is smaller.
electrochromic glass
"The big glass roof does not have a built-in shade or electrochromic glass. Back seats are stationary."
Electrochromic glass is glass that can automatically darken or lighten at the touch of a button. The host is saying the R2’s roof doesn’t have that kind of built-in tinting or shade.
Electrochromic glass is smart glass that can change tint on demand using an electrical signal. The host notes the R2’s big glass roof does not use this technology, and instead lacks a built-in shade.
40-20-40 split
"However, we do have the ability to fold all the way down to get that flat feature. A very easy way to bring it back up as well. And we do have the ability for a 40-20-40 split."
A 40-20-40 split means the back seat is divided into three parts that fold in a specific pattern. It helps you move cargo while still keeping someone seated in the middle section.
A 40-20-40 split describes how a rear bench seat folds: the left and right sections fold (40% each) while the middle section (20%) stays up. This lets you carry a mix of passengers and cargo without fully flattening the entire seat.
cargo hold
"With butts in all seats, the cargo hold measures out at 29 cubic feet. Pretty good."
Cargo hold just means the trunk/storage space behind the back seats. The host is measuring how much stuff it can fit, first with the seats up and then with them folded down.
Cargo hold is the vehicle’s enclosed storage area behind the seats, measured in volume (like cubic feet) to compare practicality. Here, the host gives cargo volume with the rear seats up and then again after folding them down.
retractable door handles
"Closing with some sniggly things, not everyone likes retractable door handles. And shutting the door sounds a little tinny."
Retractable door handles are the kind that hide in the door and pop out when you’re near the car. The host is saying some people don’t like them, including how the door sounds when you shut it.
Retractable door handles are flush, motorized handles that pop out when you approach and retract when you leave. The host says not everyone likes them, and also comments on the sound when the door closes.
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