Denver Gets a Sneak Peek of the 2026 Rivian R2 - Block Party Draws Crowd to See the Smaller SUV

Denver is one of the first markets where enthusiasts can see the new Rivian R2 in person. Automotive journalists were invited to interview Brian Gase, Rivian’s Vice President of Engineering Quality about the SUV that is expected to go on sale this summer. Rivian also held a block party where potential buyers could see the R2 up close and sit in it. Only people who are on the R2 reservation list were invited. Crowds quickly gathered to see the R2 and its upgrades. 

The 2026 Rivian R2 Performance Model

The R2s we got to see are the Performance Launch Editions. These first R2s will be slightly more expensive than the Standard models that will be on sale in 2027. In all, Rivian anticipates being able to produce 135,000 - 200,000 R2s. You can tell the Performance models by the yellow brake calipers. Rivian isn’t kidding about performance, these Launch editions will have 660 horsepower. The R2 will do 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. 

I find the most interesting thing about the software defined vehicles is that because they can be continually improved with Over-the-Air updates, the vehicle actually gets better the longer you have it. As V.P Gase said, “The vehicle you have after a year is better than the vehicle you purchased.” 

Innovation is Key at Rivian

Gase was the fourth person hired to join the company some 15 years ago and seems particularly proud that Rivian continues to innovate while keeping its sense of humor. He points out the rear window glass can be raised or lowered with an invisible button on the side of the rear panel. Gase demonstrates how the company took great pains to make sure the rear window wiper sits flush to the glass, while still directing water away from the window. 

Gase also says that Rivian is working on ways to use old vehicle batteries to provide power to its different facilities. Rivian is also working on ways to replace parts or sections of vehicle batteries, rather than having to replace entire batteries. 

To illustrate the company’s humor, Gase showed a gasket cover with a picture of a frog and a skunk on it. Together the frog and skunk make a frunk. The R2’s significant frunk is one of the reasons that it has best-in-class cargo room. The R2 has total cargo room of 90.1 cu.-ft. While Gase confirmed that the R2 has easter eggs, he would not divulge where they are. 

The R2 midsize SUV also comes with a spacious backseat with significant legroom. Designed to drive on pavement, the R2 also has great ground clearance for off-roading. The R2 has 9.6" of ground clearance, and specs say it averages 32" overall diameter on all wheel and tire options, so it is outfitted to tackle rough terrain comfortably. The Launch edition also includes the towing package. 

The Performance Launch edition is AWD, with dual motors and has a base price of about $54,000. It is expected to have a range of 330 miles. The Standard model that will go on sale in 2027 will have a smaller battery and be more affordable with a starting price of around $45,000. The Standard model will have 350 horsepower, be rear-wheel-drive and have a single long range motor. 

Tornado Damage at the Production Plant

The plant, in Normal, Illinois, that will be building the new R2s was hit by a tornado this weekend. According to a message that CEO RJ Scaringe sent to employees, the tornado damaged an area where parts for the new R2 are stored. There was no damage to assembly lines or other parts of the plant. 

“While Building 2 has sustained damage and is closed for the time being as we complete our assessments, I am incredibly relieved to share that there were no injuries at our plant,” Scaringe told employees.

The storm damage is not expected to cause significant delays in R2 production. 

It is exciting to see the preproduction models of the 2026 Rivian R2 Performance Launch edition. Now, I can’t wait to drive it. 

Images by Mary Conway and Gwen Hengehold

About the Author

Mary Conway is a professional automotive journalist and has decades of experience specializing in automotive news analysis. She covered the Detroit Three for more than twenty years for the ABC affiliate, in Detroit. Her affection for the Motor City comes naturally. Her father ran a gas station while Mary was growing up, in Wisconsin. Follow Mary at @MaryConwayMedia on X  and on Facebook, and send her car news tips for future stories. Mary Conway is an esteemed automotive and business reporter who was inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame in 2019. Mary is a member of the Automotive Press Association, Rocky Mountain Automotive Press, Society of Professional Journalists, and NATAS.