Rivian is back with something new and exciting. It’s called the Rivian R3 — a small electric SUV that’s easy on your wallet and big on features. Whether you’re a city commuter or a weekend explorer, the R3 promises to fit right into your lifestyle.
Let’s take a detailed look at what makes the Rivian R3 and R3X special.
Quick Specs: Rivian R3 at a Glance
| Feature | Rivian R3 Details |
|---|---|
| Length | ~161.4 inches |
| Height | ~59.5 inches |
| Powertrain Options | Single, Dual, Tri-motor setups |
| 0–60 mph Time | ~3 seconds (Tri-motor) |
| Battery Range | Over 300 miles |
| Charging Time | Under 30 minutes (10–80%) |
| Charging Port | NACS + CCS compatible |
| Starting Price | Estimated around $40,000 |
| Production Start | Late 2026 / Early 2027 |
| Manufactured In | Georgia, USA |
A Smaller, Smarter EV from Rivian
The Rivian R3 was officially revealed in March 2024. It’s designed to be smaller than the R1S SUV and much more affordable. Rivian says the R3 is built for people who want an EV that’s fun, stylish, and ready for anything.
Expected starting price? Around $40,000. That puts it in the same space as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Ford Mustang Mach-E, and Kia EV6.
This is a bold move from Rivian. With this SUV, they are clearly aiming for the mass market.
Also Read 2024 Ford Bronco Raptor
Rugged Yet City-Friendly Design
The Rivian R3 has a compact and sporty look. It’s inspired by classic rally cars like the Audi Quattro and Lancia Delta. You can spot the round LED lights and clean lines from a mile away.
Dimensions-wise:
- Length: Around 161.4 inches
- Height: About 59.5 inches
That’s shorter than most SUVs, making the R3 easy to park and drive in cities. But don’t let the size fool you — it’s built for adventures too.
Power Options: From Efficient to Electric Beast
Rivian plans to offer three powertrain options for the R3:
- Single-motor RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive)
- Dual-motor AWD (All-Wheel Drive)
- Tri-motor AWD (Two motors in the back, one in front)
The tri-motor version will be fast. Rivian says it can go from 0 to 60 mph in just 3 seconds. That’s supercar speed in a compact SUV body.
This means you can pick what fits you best — whether you want daily efficiency or thrilling performance.
Battery Range and Charging Details
The R3 will come with two battery pack options. The bigger one will deliver over 300 miles of driving range on a full charge. That’s perfect for road trips and weekend escapes.
Using a DC fast charger, the battery can go from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes. It also supports both NACS (Tesla’s plug) and CCS charging standards (with an adapter), giving you plenty of charging station options.
Interior: Smart Use of Space
The inside of the Rivian R3 is both functional and futuristic. You get a flat floor, lots of headroom, and clever storage options. There’s also a dual-function tailgate that opens in two ways — helpful for loading gear.
Rivian also teased some cool accessories:
- Pop-up tent
- Portable kitchen
- Extra storage systems
These will be a hit with outdoor lovers and campers.
R3X: The Off-Road Brother
The Rivian R3X is a tougher version of the R3. It’s built for people who love dirt roads, mountains, and going where regular cars can’t.
Here’s what makes it different:
- Higher ground clearance
- Chunkier off-road tires
- Tri-motor power only
- Adventure-ready look
This model shows that Rivian wants to keep its off-road roots strong even in smaller EVs.
Rivian R3 Release Date and Production Plans
The R3 and R3X won’t be hitting roads right away. Rivian says production will start in late 2026 or early 2027. The cars will be made at Rivian’s new factory in Georgia.
This plant is a huge investment for Rivian. It’s expected to create thousands of jobs and speed up their delivery times once it opens.
FAQs about Rivian R3
Q: When is the Rivian R3 coming out?
A: Rivian says production will begin in late 2026 or early 2027.
Q: What will the Rivian R3 cost?
A: The base model is expected to start around $40,000, with more expensive versions like the R3X possibly going up to $50,000 or more.
Q: How far can the R3 go on a single charge?
A: The long-range version is expected to offer over 300 miles on one charge.
Q: Will it support fast charging?
A: Yes. It can charge from 10% to 80% in under 30 minutes using fast chargers.
Q: What’s the difference between R3 and R3X?
A: The R3 is the regular version. The R3X is an off-road-focused model with higher ground clearance, rugged tires, and a tri-motor setup.
Q: Where will the R3 be made?
A: In Rivian’s new factory in Georgia, USA.
Q: Will Rivian R3 qualify for EV tax credits?
A: While it’s not confirmed, Rivian hopes the R3 will qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit once U.S. production starts.
Final Thoughts: A Game-Changer in the EV World
The Rivian R3 might be the most important vehicle the brand has ever made. It brings together affordability, style, performance, and practicality in one compact electric SUV.
Whether you’re new to EVs or looking to downsize from a larger SUV, the R3 could be your next ride. The R3X, meanwhile, is there for the bold drivers who want to mix electric power with true off-road grit.
With its expected release in 2026–2027, the countdown has already begun.
Author- Ayush
