Rivian R3 Reminds Us Of Hyundai Ioniq 5, R2 Also Spotted Testing

The upcoming electric SUVs from Rivian have been out and about, creating a frenzy among the onlookers.

Rivian unveiled the R2, R3 and R3X SUVs and they were seen testing on the streets soon after. The R2 and R3 will be underpinned by a new mid-size platform. While the R2 is a mid-size electric SUV, the R3 leans more toward the electric crossover demeanour. As an extension, the R3X will be the performance version of the regular R3 for on- and off-road scenarios.

As per the latest sightings by netizens, the R2 could remind you slightly of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 in terms of the silhouette. The R2 is planned to go into production in the first half of 2026 at Rivian’s Normal, Illinois plant. The R3 will follow a few months thereafter. The price of the R2 will be around $45,000. Rivian is taking bookings for the R2 with a deposit of $100.

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Rivian R3 & R2 Spotted Testing

There are many online forums and Instagram and X users who posted the upcoming Rivian electric vehicles being tested out on the road in the flesh. Even though the release is quite far away, the fact that Rivian is testing them sans camo on the roads hints at a timely production. The sharp cuts on the side and rear profiles of the R3 resemble those on the Hyundai Ioniq 5. In fact, the rear third quarter bears a familiar silhouette of the famed Korean EV too. That is not to say that the R3 doesn’t look Rivian. In fact, the overall design is unmistakably Rivian.

Rivian R3 & R2 – Specifications

Rivian has announced a few key details regarding the specifications of the upcoming R2, R3 and R3X. There will be three motor variants on offer – Single-Motor (RWD), Dual-Motor (AWD), and Tri-Motor (two motors in the rear and one in front). The most powerful configuration will propel the EV from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in under 3 seconds.

Furthermore, the battery will comprise an all-new 4695 cell which will deliver over 300 miles (483 km) of range on a single charge for both R2 and R3. In terms of charging, the R2 and R3 will be capable of DC fast charging using both NACS and CCS (with adapter) sockets. The time to charge from 10% to 80% will be less than 30 minutes.

Specs	Rivian R2 and R3
Variants	Single-Motor (RWD), Dual-Motor (AWD), and Tri-Motor (AWD)
Cell Specification	All-new 4695
Range	> 300 miles (483 km)
Acc. (0-60 mph / 97 km/h)	< 3 seconds
DC Fast Charging	10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes
Charger	NACS and CCS (with adapter)

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Interior And Key Features

The cabin will utilize sustainable materials for upholstery, seating and other areas. R2 will even come with the option of folding the first and second rows completely flat for gear, cargo or camping. Additionally, there will be the latest connectivity and storage facilities inside the cabin. To aid the active safety prowess of the EV, the R2 and R3 will possess 11 cameras, 5 radars, and a more powerful computing platform for enhanced autonomous capabilities. Over-the-air software updates will be available too. More details will emerge closer to the launch.

Founder’s Note

On the occasion of unveiling R2 and R3, Rivian Founder and CEO, RJ Scaringe commented, “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. 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. 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.”

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Learn Electric Cars Says

With Rivian R1 already on sale, a need for a more affordable product was there in order to cater to the masses. The R2, with a $45,000 price tag, will be the perfect candidate to tap into that market segment. Mid-size SUVs will be the way forward to increase revenues and profits for the American EV giant. We shall keep an eye out for more details about these two new products as they emerge.