Rivian R2 Performance Tire Tests Have Surprised Experts
The R2 Performance showed that all-terrain tires can outperform all-season options on pavement.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Electric Vehicles
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Recent testing of the 2027 Rivian R2 Performance revealed that all-terrain tire configurations performed better than all-season variants during pavement trials. This dual-motor AWD SUV is designed to leverage specific tire formulations to handle its 656-hp output.
Why it matters
Choosing between tire types directly impacts how your vehicle manages power, acceleration, and road grip. This test highlights how custom-formulated tires influence the driving dynamics of high-torque electric vehicles.
The Rivian R2 Performance dual-motor AWD powertrain delivers 656 hp and 609 lb-ft of torque. Testers compared 21-inch wheels fitted with Pirelli Scorpion tires against 20-inch wheels equipped with BFGoodrich Trail-Terrain tires.
The players
Rivian
An American electric vehicle manufacturer known for producing adventure-focused SUVs and trucks with off-road capabilities.
Pirelli
An international tire manufacturer that produces specialized rubber compounds for high-performance and luxury vehicles.
BFGoodrich
A tire manufacturer specializing in off-road and all-terrain products for trucks and SUVs.
The details
The test vehicles featured RIV-imprinted tires, indicating custom formulations developed for specific load, noise, and rolling resistance targets. While all-terrain tires typically use larger, widely spaced knobs and lugs, the vehicle utilizes advanced traction control systems to manage its high torque during initial acceleration. This design ensures the R2 maintains stability and grip regardless of the chosen tire tread pattern.
Timeline
October 14, 2026: Motor Trend published the results of the Rivian R2 Performance tire testing.
The Home Front
As electric vehicle adoption grows, the integration of custom-formulated tires has become a critical factor in maintaining vehicle efficiency and safety. These developments mark a shift in how manufacturers balance heavy torque output with the durability requirements of different driving terrains.
When selecting replacement tires for your electric SUV, verify that the load capacity and noise rating meet the manufacturer's original specifications. Check your owner's manual to determine which wheel sizes are compatible with your vehicle's traction control system before purchasing.
The takeaway
Vehicle performance can change significantly based on the tread design of your tires, even when using factory-authorized options. Always prioritize tires that match your specific driving needs, such as all-terrain capability versus all-season comfort.
Further reading
For more information on the latest developments in vehicle performance, visit the Electric Vehicles section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by MotorTrend.
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Would you consider using all-terrain tires on your personal vehicle for daily highway driving?
