Rivian R3 and R3X: A pleasant surprise nobody expected

The event held by Rivian this past Thursday in California delivered far more than expected. Alongside the presentation of the new R2, which we have already discussed recently in another post, there was also a completely unexpected surprise. The launch of this new electric SUV in 2026 will be followed shortly afterwards by yet another SUV, even more compact and with an even more affordable price.

The head of Rivian, R.J. Scaringe, has defined the new R3 as the result of taking everything good about the R2, the same platform, and compressing it into a compact vehicle. A rather simplistic definition, but one that perfectly explains what this new model represents within the company’s range. And the truth is that they have pulled it off so well that it has generated even more anticipation than the R2 SUV, which was supposed to be the star of the day.

According to Scaringe himself, the R3 is about five inches -13 cm- shorter, with a slightly shorter wheelbase, but just as fun and with the same propulsion system. Like the R2, the R3 will be available in versions with one, two or three electric motors, as well as with two battery packs to choose from: standard and long range. In this way, the R3 is expected to be able to cover, just like the R2, nearly 500 km with the largest-capacity battery pack.

The R3 will also place emphasis on Rivian’s adventurous spirit. The second row of seats can be folded down to turn the interior into a campsite; and for those who enjoy surfing, it will be possible to open the rear glass independently of the tailgate. Nor will the rechargeable flashlight integrated into the driver’s door be missing, as in all of the brand’s vehicles.

If you liked the Rivian R3, wait to see the R3X

For those less interested in camping and more in enjoying a more radical off-road performance, Rivian will also offer a high-performance version with a triple electric motor setup which it has named the R3X. With greater ground clearance and larger wheels, the R3X will sit in a segment of the market where it will likely find few rivals, which could be the secret to its success.

Just like the R2, the R3 and R3X are expected to reach the European market as well, although when this will happen is unknown. The first deliveries of the R2 are planned for the North American market in early 2026 and somewhat later in Europe. Considering that the R3 will arrive later in both markets, we should not expect it, therefore, until 2027 or perhaps 2028.

How much will the R3 cost?

As for its price, it will be somewhat more affordable than the R2, which in the United States will be sold starting at 45 thousand dollars. So the price of the R3 will probably be between 35 and 40 thousand dollars, or euros in the case of the European market.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ISU9lmyoJM8