Rivian R2 2026 Interior: First Photos of Tesla Model Y Rival

The Rivian R2 finally unveils its cabin with exclusive images of the prototype 2026. Two screens, haptic steering wheel controls and generous living space: the American Tesla Model Y rival is betting on practicality and innovation to win over buyers.

"The interior is spacious and functional, with two attractive screens and controls you practically don't need to touch" — Dan Edmunds, Car and Driver

Revolutionary steering wheel controls

The Rivian R2 introduces a major innovation with its Haptic Halo Wheels, two dials integrated into the horizontal spokes of the steering wheel. These controls let you manage the entire infotainment system without taking your eyes off the road: rotation, tilt, pressure and pull provide precise haptic feedback to differentiate each function.

This approach virtually eliminates the need to touch the center screen while driving. Traditional turn stalks remain in place for indicators, wipers and gear selection, preserving familiar driver habits.

A cabin designed for adventure

The interior impresses with its generosity. Rear seats offer 40.4 inches (1.03 m) of legroom and headroom, allowing a 6-foot passenger to settle in comfortably. The driving position prioritizes visibility with a low beltline and straight windows—far from current aerodynamic conventions.

Storage hasn't been forgotten. A central drawer hides beneath the console, large enough for a bag or tissue box. Speaker grilles have been relocated from the doors to make room for large water bottles. Two glove boxes round out front storage options.

What's the trunk capacity?

Rivian hasn't yet released the official trunk capacity, but images show generous space. With seats folded, the floor becomes perfectly flat and long enough to sleep on. The brand will even offer a custom mattress to transform the R2 into a rolling campground.

Latest-generation driver assistance tech

The R2 packs 11 cameras and 5 radars for driving aids. At launch, the Universal Hands-Free system will enable Level 2+ autonomous driving on most mapped roads. The Point-to-Point feature arrives late 2026, offering full autonomous navigation like Tesla's Full Self-Driving.

A Level 3 version with lidar sensor and Rivian Autonomy Processor chip (800 TOPS versus 220 today) lands in early 2027. This setup will allow "eyes-off" driving under limited but ever-expanding conditions.

What's the price for this technology?

Driver assistance costs $2,500 as a one-time purchase or $49.99 per month as a subscription. An aggressive positioning against Tesla's $99 monthly asking price for FSD, now available only as a subscription.

Production underway for 2026

First pre-production units are currently rolling off the factory in Normal, Illinois. RJ Scaringe, Rivian's boss, says he's "more than eager to start delivering to customers soon." Deliveries begin in the first half of 2026, with a base price of $45,000 for the rear-wheel-drive version. Launch dual-motor AWD models will demand at least $50,000.

This market push represents a vital challenge for Rivian. After cutting its teeth on the luxury R1S and R1T, the maker must now convince the mainstream with this more affordable R2. The spacious interior and onboard tech seem promising to take on the Model Y on its own turf.

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