Are you ready for the ultimate electric SUV showdown? We test the highly anticipated 2027 Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y to see which reigns supreme in range, tech and performance!
Rivian R2 Edmunds Review –
Tesla Model Y Edmunds Review –
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00:00 Intro
00:31 R2 Pricing
01:05 R2 Interior, Tech, & Storage
06:34 R2 Driving Impressions
09:03 Model Y Pricing
09:37 Model Y Interior, Tech, & Storage
13:40 Model Y Driving Impressions
15:54 Edmunds EV Range & Charging Tests
18:05 Value
19:56 Edmunds’ Take
The battle between the brand-new 2027 Rivian R2 and the undisputed electric best-seller, the 2026 Tesla Model Y, is closer than you might think. Both of these electric SUVs bring something unique to the table, but which one is truly the better buy? Let’s dive into our full review and comparison.
Starting with the interior and technology, the Rivian R2 impresses with a cabin inspired by the R1S, offering real wood, premium fabric, and clever storage solutions like a slide-out drawer. The tech is snappy, although Rivian’s choice to skip Apple CarPlay — and charge a subscription for things like satellite maps — might frustrate some. You do get plenty of cargo space, with a front trunk and seats that fold nearly flat. Meanwhile, the Tesla Model Y continues its minimalist approach. It boasts excellent build quality and a fantastic native navigation system, but the lack of a gauge cluster remains a point of contention. The Model Y’s ace in the hole, however, is its full self-driving tech, which is arguably the best reason to buy the car.
When it comes to acceleration and driving comfort, both are seriously quick. The 2027 Rivian R2 Performance delivers a staggering 656 horsepower, trapping in the quarter mile at 128 mph. It’s smooth, stable and highly capable off-road. The Tesla Model Y Long Range might not match that pure power, but it counters with agile handling, a comfortable ride, and superior efficiency. In our real-world Edmunds EV Range Test, the Rivian R2 range fell slightly short at 304 miles, whereas the Tesla Model Y range easily met its 327-mile EPA estimate. For those tracking efficiency, the R2 manages around 32 kWh per 100 miles, while the Tesla is more frugal at 27 kWh per 100 miles.
Ultimately, this Rivian R2 vs. Tesla Model Y showdown ends in a tie! The Rivian R2 is practical, rugged, and brimming with character, earning our top X factor score. The Tesla Model Y, however, remains the practical choice for those prioritizing range, efficiency and self-driving capability. The R2 vs. Model Y debate will rage on, especially once the Rivian R2 Launch Package hits the streets.
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Disclaimer: This video’s description was generated with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy by the Edmunds editorial team. The video itself was created entirely without the use of generative AI.
#RivianR2 #TeslaModelY #Edmunds
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We’ve been eagerly awaiting the new R2 SUV from Rivian, and it does not disappoint. But, how well does it stack up against the best-selling Tesla Model Y? We definitely have some opinions about these two EVs — what do YOU think?
R2 off Road pretty please, lets see her behind the wheel also! Awesome video !
How irritating to listen too
Not the exact comparison presented here by Edmunds, but I just cancelled my R2 order invite and bought the Model Y L Launch. For a point of reference, I am coming from a MB EQE500 SUV, this is not my first EV. Putting the Tesla FSD aside (hands down amazing), the Telsa is just a better driving experience than the R2. They are two VERY different cars. I found the reviewers comparison of the drive of the R2 (I've driven the R2 4 times) similar to my experience. Imprecise steering feel, small bumps were noticeable even in the softest suspension setting in All-Purpose. The Tesla was much quieter, more comfortable seats, and the visibility was better. The tech in the Tesla is MILES ahead of the Rivian today. The sound system is fantastic in the Tesla. I prefer the looks of the R2, and I didn't want to like the Tesla. I will gladly pay $100 per month for a personal driver.
My take – Tesla Model Y or Y L wins – FSD, Driving Experience, Comfort, Sound System, Tech, Range, Quality of Materials, Everyday Functionality. Rivian R2 wins – Looks, Cool Factor, Off-Road capabilities, Not a Tesla.
I want the Rivian to succeed. I really do. I suffered from anti-Tesla bias, not wanting to like it, but at the end of the day, the Tesla Model Y or Y L is just better for what I want.
R2 is more a competitor to the Jeep Recon and Ford Bronco. The Model Y is competing more with the Mustang Mach E and other car brands EVs
PACK. HER. UP. !!!!
Hey Edmund, don’t let this lady review cars anymore. Pack her up!
It’s hard to take this seriously when you say the model at has better storage and towing than the R2. That’s literally just wrong lol
Crappy review
Really two different vehicles to compare. The R2 is (IMO) an EV version of a 4Runner in respect to intended use – camping, some off pavement ventures, general outdoor adventures, with storage for all the camping gear, fishing gear, hiking gear, skiing gear, etc… Model Y is your sporty hatchback to drive the city and suburban paved jungle and have fun doing it. It'll fit your Costco haul, take the kids to soccer practice, take the family on a summer road trip to see their cousins and get you to/from work every day with an enjoyable driving experience….. Different markets, different demo groups. I demo drove the R2 and was impressed with the vehicle (except the sound system👎). However, it does not serve my needs – my feelings for Tesla leadership is not enough for me to spend $60k for something that doesn't fit my needs. I'll stick with my older Model 3 for now. Having more EV choices in the market will help with adoption. Good luck to Rivian, I hope this model really becomes a big seller for them.
Why do most if not all car reviewers focus on the interior gadgets rather than how the car actually drives? Are these made for teenagers that like to play with buttons? Actually I'm an adult and I like to drive so please give me more information upfront about how the car drives
Emmie Hall! The GOATess is back?
R2 is not as good, sadly.
Did not do a size comparison.. wow
She really did not compare the driving dynamics very well
Rather wait for Tesla Model YL!
No thanks Grandma.
Just what is needed is a flashlight in the door because everyone forgets their cell phone.
Not sure why people buy these inefficient EV's. I suppose its because they are so inexpensive to charge at home that is. A few dollars maybe? Not sure as I have only charged my Model Y when I had it at the parking lot fast charger which was expensive to charge. O well. People can drive and own what they want.
Ugh no Carplay and no manual vent controls is so annoying. I think the r2 is a better looking car overall.
What a dumb comparison. Should be comparing the R2 to the Bronco or Jeep.
So no base….but they got the fully loaded joint🤔. Great
I'm only 5'9" – Yeah, that's the average height of the American male
WTF is she SCREAMING?
Comparing apples 🍎 and oranges 🍊
RIVN 🚀
Isn't Rivian struggling with financial problems-??
How does "in cabin tech" not include the ability to drive itself? I have nearly 7000 miles on my new Y (my first EV of any kind, BTW, previous vehicle was a large Land Rover), and I have driven about 160 miles of that manually. The only plus I see is the offroad, I wouldn't even consider a car that can't drive itself at least as good as my Y does at this point.
If the R2 had Self Driving as good as the Model Y it would be a no brainer to go R2….but that just my opinion.
R2 is my choice too.
R2 wins for me. Better built and design.
People try so hard to deny the greatness of Tesla. Full Self Driving is undeniably the most significant automotive development in a century. The new Model Y boasts a quiet cabin (thanks acoustic glass), refined suspension, new seats, audiophile quality sound system, incredible safety rating, etc etc etc, and it is more affordable! The fact that it’s the best selling vehicle in the world despite the Elon haters says a lot.
neither is of interest as neither is affordable for todays costs. guess the 1% will buy them tesla will go down in history as a mistake.
Who put a boomer in here, review sounds like more of a complaint against the amazing tech
What about the Nazi association factor? I think public perception is a very relevant point to bring up. For the record – I have a 2024 Model 3 Premium AWD with less than 20k on the odometer and I am trading it for an R2 Performance. My brother has a Model Y. Teslas remove expected functionality and ignore proven methods and technologies for their cars, instead opting for software-based everything which is far less reliable. If I had a dollar every time my windshield wipers swiped for no reason on a sunny day, I would be able to buy another Tesla. Why? It uses the cameras and AI to determine if they should swipe. It's the reason why the AC controls are in the screen and there is no secondary display for a gauge cluster. The cost savings clearly didn't get reinvested into their production quality, because it's still terrible. Better… but still bad.
Tesla interiors are better than they used to be, but still aren't great. The bolsters already feel like they're deteriorating a bit and like I mentioned, the car has less than 20k miles on it. I treat it well. I park in a garage. I follow the charging best practices. I already feel like I need to get rid of it before these things become massive headaches.
The R2 is largely unproven, but I am willing to take a swing at something that starts in a better place. It's more capable. It has better storage. It's roomier. It's much, much higher build quality. And if you charge at home and don't have to drive a billion miles a day – the range really isn't an issue. I was so nervous to get an EV and was all about charging and planning trips, etc, etc, and then when I finally had one I realized how little that really matters 99% of the time. I lived in an apartment with it for a while and didn't have the capability of charging at home and it STILL didn't matter.
I think reviewers need to get away from using a Tesla as the benchmark as a lot of other companies have surpassed Tesla in terms of what their EVs can do, how they are built, and the underlying tech that controls the functions that we're all used to. The one HUGE plus that I can say about the Model 3 specifically though – some of the features of that car have traditionally been gate kept by luxury models. Heated/ventilated seats, the "autopilot," camera systems, auto-wipers (as bad as they are), the stereo, etc. I got all of that in a car for 29k (used, 9.2k on the odometer at purchase). Fun to drive? Not really. It's fast to accelerate, but that isn't special after about a week. Good for utility? Not at all. Like… I'd say negative utility if I'm honest. 1 set of golf clubs maybe. Commuting though? 10/10. Grocery run? 10/10. Parking in a city? 10/10. But the things that it can't do will be huge sticking points to the people who expect more out of their cars. The R2 can do all of the things I just gave a 10/10 to, and a lot more. Why wouldn't that be the move then?
@Edmunds I'm surprised you didn't mention the R2 doesn't have an AM & FM radio receiver. To listen to FM radio, you have to use Iheart radio, which uses a LTE connection, so you won't be able to listen to local radio stations and, these are the big 2 that worry me, won't work in remote areas and in natural disasters. @Edmunds you should have mentionned this.
Should compare the R2 to the model YL
I want this woman to review the Ford Fathom and Lucid Cosmos.
If these reviewers wants the 2 cars to have equal scores, please at least take some time to make sure the scores in each category look reasonable.
"But guy's, I'm only 5'9"
The most valuable feature in a vehicle (new or used) is self driving. FSD improves my quality of life everyday by removing the stress and fatigue of driving, no other automotive feature can compare. Oh, and it is safer for me and my loved ones – just ask your favourite AI to compare Tesla FSD to all others in collisions (and theft BTW).
Why does your host, who is a very good host always miss things? On the model Y there is a charging port in the front cubby. There's also a charging point in the glovebox, and there is 120 V plug in the back on the left. Please know your car before you review them.
How is Tesla’s self driving not a 10 for X factor?
Omg it’s her hormones speaking, so so annoying, someone commented 99% emotions, 1% data, so damn right, get rid of her @edmund