Rivian’s decision to introduce a smaller, more affordable electric SUV is already paying off. The new R2 has become the company’s best-selling vehicle, outselling the larger R1S SUV and R1T pickup combined during the third quarter of 2026.
That’s an impressive achievement for a vehicle that’s only recently entered production, even more so considering Rivian is currently selling the R2 exclusively in its most expensive configuration.
The strong demand helped Rivian deliver a record 19,248 vehicles between July and September, representing a 46 percent increase compared with the same period last year. The R2 even outsold the company’s electric delivery vans.
Rivian has spent years trying to turn its distinctive electric vehicles into a sustainable business, so these results are encouraging. There’s still plenty of work ahead, but the R2 appears to be finding its audience.
The $59,485 R2 Is Already A Hit
Currently, buyers can only get the R2 in Performance trim with the Launch Package, starting at $59,485. That’s hardly cheap, although it’s much less expensive than Rivian’s larger models.
The Performance version certainly doesn’t lack excitement. Its dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup produces 656 horsepower, enough to launch the electric SUV from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 3.6 seconds.
It also offers an estimated 330 miles of range, making it a practical proposition for everyday driving. The combination of strong performance, useful range, and Rivian’s distinctive styling appears to be resonating with buyers.
Rivian hasn’t disclosed exactly how many R2s it delivered during the quarter. However, the fact that it outsold the R1S and R1T combined suggests the smaller SUV is already playing a major role in the company’s growth.
More Affordable Versions Are Coming
The R2’s sales performance could become even more interesting once cheaper variants arrive. Rivian plans to introduce a Premium trim starting at $55,485, followed by a Standard model priced from $46,485, including destination charges.
The Premium is expected in late 2026, while the Standard is scheduled for 2027. That entry-level version should bring the R2 within reach of buyers who find the current Performance model too expensive.
Rivian is also increasing production at its Normal, Illinois, factory, where a second shift is being ramped up to support R2 manufacturing. The company expects production volumes to continue climbing.
Rivian Raises Its Sales Forecast
Following the strong third quarter, Rivian increased its 2026 delivery forecast to between 67,000 and 70,000 vehicles. Previously, the company expected to deliver between 65,000 and 70,000.
Revenue also climbed 38 percent year-over-year to $2.155 billion, although Rivian still faces substantial financial challenges. The company reported a net loss of approximately $913 million for the quarter.
Still, the R2’s early success gives Rivian a reason to be optimistic. If a nearly $60,000 version can already outsell the company’s established models, it’ll be interesting to see what happens when the cheaper versions finally arrive.