Rivian R2 Canada Launch: New 555km Electric SUV Won’t Arrive Until 2027

Electric automaker Rivian has officially shared the details for the Canadian launch of the R2, its more compact and affordable mid-size electric SUV. Designed to sit below the R1S, the R2 is built for adventure while offering a more accessible entry point into the Rivian ecosystem. The company confirmed that the R2 is scheduled to begin deliveries in Canada in 2027.

In the U.S., however, the Premium and Performance R2 trims will launch in 2026.

The R2 is built on a brand-new platform designed to maximize interior space and storage. One of its key features is the fold-flat interior, where every seat (including the front row) can fold completely flat to accommodate car camping or large gear. The SUV also features a unique rear drop glass that allows the entire back window to lower (you know, so you can load your surfboard).

The R2 Canadian Lineup: Trims and Performance

Rivian is offering three distinct versions of the R2 for the Canadian market. While official Canadian pricing has not yet been finalized, here are the basic specs below for range, 0 to 100km/h acceleration, horsepower and key features:

What About Rivian R2 Canadian Pricing?

If we take Rivan R2 U.S. pricing and apply the latest exchange rates, we are seeing prices start from about $66,000 CAD for the Standard trim. The base Standard trim wasn’t mentioned on the Canadian website, and that offering would be about $61,200 CAD. Can Rivian ramp up R2 production to meet demand? The American timelines below that mention “late 2026” is like PR speak to eventually say they might delay into early 2027 and beyond:

• Performance (Launch Package): $57,990 USD (~$78,866 CAD) — Available Spring 2026
• Premium: $53,990 USD (~$73,426 CAD) — Available Late 2026
• Standard (Long Range): $48,490 USD (~$65,946 CAD) — Available First Half 2027
• Standard (Base): $45,000 USD (~$61,200 CAD) — Available Late 2027

An entry Tesla Model Y RWD starts from $49,990 CAD right now, while the Premium is at $64,990 CAD and Performance at $74,990 CAD. With the federal government’s new $5,000 EV rebates, this Rivian R2 pricing does not qualify.

Adventure Ready and Technology Features

The R2 maintains Rivian’s reputation for off-road capability with 245 mm (9.6 inches) of ground clearance and an approach angle of 25 degrees. It comes equipped with a native Tesla NACS charging port, meaning owners can access over 21,000 Tesla Superchargers across North America. Rivian claims the battery can charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes using a DC fast charger.

On the technology front, the R2 introduces Haptic Halo steering wheel controls, which use tactile feedback to allow drivers to adjust climate and media without taking their eyes off the road. Every R2 also includes the hardware for Autonomy+, Rivian’s hands-free driving system that works on over 5.5 million kilometres of highways across Canada and the U.S.

The vehicle is also highly practical, offering a best-in-class front trunk (frunk) and a total storage capacity of 2,550 litres, says Rivian.

You can reserve a Rivian R2 for $150 today, but again, who knows how long you’ll have to wait for the SUV in Canada.

Rivian is still struggling to turn a real profit, reporting a massive $3.6 billion U.S. net loss for 2025. While the company did manage its first-ever gross profit of $144 million, that small win was mostly thanks to software deals with Volkswagen rather than selling its own electric trucks. With $6.1 billion in the bank and another $2 billion coming from the Volkswagen partnership this year, Rivian has some breathing room, but all eyes are on whether the R2 can actually save the company when it finally hits the road.