Rivian R2 VS Rivian R1S

▸ WHICH ONE HOLDS UP BETTER

Both land in the same place on our verdict scale, with no clear scorecard edge either way. The difference is in the specifics — read each PixProof's full evidence below for what actually separates them for your use case.

Rivian R2 Rivian R1S

Verdict🟡 QUESTION IT🟡 QUESTION IT

The RealityWhile the stated specs and pricing appeal to EV shoppers, potential buyers note the vehicle lacks Apple CarPlay and physical interior buttons. Furthermore, feedback indicates the vehicle is smaller in length and width than a Tesla Model Y despite being branded as a mid-size SUV.An official safety recall affects 98,828 vehicles because notifications can block the rearview camera display when reversing. Furthermore, driver reports note severe operational glitches, such as the vehicle unexpectedly entering limp mode at 4 mph in a busy intersection.

SHORT ANSWER

Rivian R2: The Rivian R2 is an upcoming electric SUV starting at $45,000 with deliveries targeted for early 2026. It advertises strong specifications, including over 300 miles of range and acceleration under 3 seconds. However, potential buyers should be aware that it does not offer Apple CarPlay, relies on haptic controls instead of physical buttons, and is physically smaller in footprint than a Tesla Model Y.

Rivian R1S: The Rivian R1S meets its core mechanical promises as a full-size, seven-passenger electric SUV with multiple motor options, but buyers should take note of critical safety concerns. A major official NHTSA recall affects nearly 99,000 vehicles due to software notifications obscuring the backup camera, alongside documented user experiences where the vehicle reduced speed to 4 mph in traffic due to sudden limp mode.

New to these terms?What are specs?What is a safety recall?