After landing successes with the R1T and R1S, and among plenty of anticipation for the R2 midsize SUV, American electric automaker Rivian is working on filling out its line-up. Next up is the Rivian R3, a fully electric compact SUV that shares a platform with the R2, along with the more powerful and outdoorsy R3X variant.
It’s still a long way out, but when it arrives, the R3 will compete with other compact battery electric vehicles (BEVs) such as the Kia EV3 and Volvo EX30.
2028 Rivian R3 and R3X: Price, Specs and Release Date
- 2028 Rivian R3 and R3X styling
- 2028 Rivian R3 and R3X interior design and practicality
- 2028 Rivian R3 and R3X engines, motors and drive
- 2028 Rivian R3 and R3X price and release date
2028 Rivian R3 and R3X styling
A prototype of the R3 shown to media looked much like a lifted and muscular hatchback. The design is punctuated by clean lines surrounding Rivian’s signature front end with oval running lights, recessed door handles, and a chunky light bar at the rear. Jeff Hammoud, the automaker’s chief design officer, cites 1980s Group B rally cars like the Audi Quattro and Lancia Delta Integrale as inspiration. We see it, but we also see a bit of the cute and quirky Honda e (which, sadly, never made it to Canada).
Converting from U.S. estimates, we expect the R3 and R3X to have a wheelbase of roughly 2,800 millimetres. In addition to the front trunk (or “frunk”) under the hood, the R3 has a split liftgate can be opened either fully or by the glass only. The R3X is positioned as the outdoorsy version of the R3 line-up. Not much has been revealed about this model yet, but we do know it’s meant to be more powerful and offer more ground clearance than the R3 with unique wheel and bumper designs.
2028 Rivian R3 and R3X interior design and practicality
Inside this five-seat compact crossover, the design looks similar to other Rivian vehicles. A large horizontally mounted infotainment screen — notably not expected to offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto — sits alongside an inset digital instrument cluster. The interior has a minimalist look and is reportedly finished with sustainable materials. Taking a cue from the larger R2, the R3 and R3X are expected to have fold-flat seats in all five positions, creating a flat space for laying down a camping mattress. Two glove boxes add interior storage space.
Continuing on the outdoor theme, Rivian has indicated plans to sell model-specific accessories such as a rooftop tent and travel kitchen.
