Rivian Surprises Crowd with Rivian R3 and R3X

[Drew Dowdell]

In a surprise move at the 2026 Rivian R2 reveal today, Rivian also unveiled another smaller crossover, the Rivian R3 and R3X. 

Based on the same platform as the Rivian R2, the smaller R3 will be even less expensive than the $45,000 R2, but we don't have an exact price yet. Like the R2, it will have two battery sizes and be capable of ranges over 300 miles with acceleration to 60 under three seconds.  The R3 will be available in single-, dual-, and tri-motor configurations.

The R3 has a 5-inch shorter wheelbase than the R2 and strays away from the boxy SUV character of other Rivians, reminding this author more of a lifted 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit in the side profile.  Despite its smaller size, the R3 keeps many of the features of the R2, including a large frunk, front and rear seats that fold flat, and a rear glass that opens independently of the hatch to allow carrying larger items.

Aiming for a more performance-oriented image, Rivian also introduced the R3X, a tri-motor variant that features wider tires and more ground clearance.

The Rivian R3 will be built at Rivian's new factory in Georgia, which is not yet online. We will have to wait until closer to launch to find out when you can buy one or how much it will cost.

 

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[David]

🤔 Is it me or does this thing look like the Hyundai Pony?

[Drew Dowdell]

This is what I see

[David]

1 hour ago, Drew Dowdell said:

This is what I see

Yup, I can see that too.

[surreal1272]

Those and the Hyundai Ioniq5 all share a resemblance.

Edited March 8 by surreal1272

[surreal1272]

I honestly dig the look and this will be a far more important car for Rivian than the R2 just because of the potential price point alone (assuming, again, a reasonable price point can be had here). Like a few others have said though, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto would be a deal killer for me. 

[ccap41]

I don't care what it may resemble. It looks cool as hell. 

[David]

10 hours ago, surreal1272 said:

Those and the Hyundai Ioniq5 all share a resemblance.

Ioniq 5 was based on their original Pony car. A awesome modern take of the 1970's Pony. I am excited for the 2025 model year with all the enhancements they are offering including a larger battery pack.

[Drew Dowdell]

On 3/8/2024 at 10:55 AM, ccap41 said:

I don't care what it may resemble. It looks cool as hell. 

Absolutely!  I think this is going to be a hit the way the Neo-Beetle and Neo-Mini Cooper were.  But with real practicality, this might have more longevity as a model.