GoKawiilRivian R2 SUV undergoes hands-on review ahead of 2027 launch
Engadget tested a pre-production Rivian R2, the smaller electric SUV sharing design DNA with the larger R1S, including a boxy body, flush door handles and pill-shaped headlights. The tested unit included off-road touches like built-in tow hooks, a roof rack mount, an optional tow package with a 7-pin connector, a 5.2-cubic-foot front trunk with a drain, and support for bi-directional V2L/V2H charging, though the charging adapter has not yet shipped.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
Rivian is positioning the R2 as a more affordable, smaller counterpart to the R1S, which could broaden its customer base ahead of the vehicle's 2027 release. The inclusion of practical off-road and utility features suggests Rivian is aiming to compete directly with rugged gas-powered SUVs like the Bronco and Wrangler rather than only other EVs.
- The R2 shares styling and engineering roots with the larger R1S despite being about 75% its size.
- It includes off-road and utility features such as tow hooks, roof rack mounts, a frunk with a drain, and bi-directional charging support.
- The bi-directional charging adapter needed to use V2L/V2H features has not yet been released.
Rivian R2 Roof Rack Crossbars — Since the R2 comes with recessed mounts built right into the roof, adding a compatible crossbar rack is a natural way to maximize its off-road and cargo-hauling potential. It's perfect for gear like kayaks, bike racks, or rooftop tents, letting you take full advantage of this SUV's rugged, adventure-ready design.
See Rivian R2 Roof Rack Crossbars on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Sam Rutherford, 2026-10-12
Published there as: “2027 Rivian R2 review: The Goldilocks electric SUV”
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