Rivian R2 70-MPH Highway Range Test: Does It Live Up To The Hype?

Rivian R2 70-MPH highway range test examines whether the company’s make-or-break EV can sustain real-world distance on fast, hilly roads. InsideEVs contributor Tom Moloughney drove a customer-spec R2 Performance Launch Edition at a constant 70 mph in Colorado, using Rivian’s claimed battery capacity of 87.9 kWh to benchmark expected range. Rivian rates the car at up to 330 miles on combined cycle with all-season tires, down to 307 miles with all-terrain tires, and to 276 miles under highway-only driving with AT tires. After charging at a Walmart DC fast charger, the tester covered 130 miles at 50% state of charge and finished with 259.4 miles, using 88 kWh and leaving about 4 miles on the estimate. The result was about 6% below the EPA highway figure for the same setup, while elevation changes likely affected performance. Power comes from dual electric motors producing 656 hp and 609 lb-ft, with 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds. The R2 Performance is priced at $59,485, while the R2 Standard Rear-Wheel Drive is set for late 2027 with a starting price of $46,495 and over 275 miles.