The Rivian R2 received a lot of headlines earlier this year for matching the Model Y for efficiency when the EPA ratings were published, despite being larger and less aerodynamic – at least on paper.
However, now that the R2 is in the hands of customers, the real-world experience is proving to be a little bit different.
A series of back-to-back tests conducted by Out of Spec Reviews and RivianTrackr found the Rivian R2 Performance consistently consumed more energy than the Tesla Model Y Performance in every driving scenario, despite both vehicles carrying identical EPA efficiency ratings.
Real-World Results Tell a Different Story
The testing compared a 2027 Rivian R2 Performance equipped with 21-inch wheels against a 2026 Tesla Model Y Performance – the company’s least efficient version of the Model Y. Both vehicles were tested on the same roads at constant speeds of 50, 60, 70, and 80 mph (80 km/h – 130 km/h), along with a city driving simulation.
To keep the comparison as fair as possible, both SUVs ran their factory tires at the recommended 42 psi, used identical climate control settings, carried two occupants, and alternated lead positions to minimize any drafting advantage.
Across every test, the Model Y proved to be the more efficient vehicle.
At 50 mph, the R2 used 18.4% more energy than the Model Y. The gap widened to 26.3% at 60 mph, narrowed to 20.8% at 70 mph due to traffic conditions, then increased again to 26.5% during the 80 mph highway test. Even in the city, where Rivian’s boxier design should have been less of a disadvantage, the R2 still consumed approximately 25% more energy than the Model Y.
Why Don’t the EPA Ratings Match?
On paper, both vehicles are rated at 105 MPGe combined and consume 32 kWh per 100 miles. The Rivian is even rated for 330 miles (531 km) of range compared to the Model Y Performance’s 306 miles (492 km).
According to Kyle Conner, the discrepancy likely comes down to how the EPA testing was conducted.
“It seems like both cars were run in different tests for the EPA cycles,” Conner said, suggesting the published ratings aren’t directly comparable despite appearing identical.
Conner was also careful to point out that the R2 remains an efficient electric SUV.
“We are not here saying the R2 is not an efficient car,” he explained. “Model Y is significantly more efficient. I just like accurate data out there.”
Still an Impressive First Effort
The results don’t necessarily diminish the R2’s accomplishment. Rivian designed the SUV with a taller, more rugged profile, increased ground clearance, and greater off-road capability than the Model Y. Those characteristics naturally make maximizing efficiency more difficult.
The testing also has limitations. Rather than measuring electricity drawn from a charger, the reviewers relied on each vehicle’s onboard energy consumption data, and several of the driving loops were relatively short.
Even so, the comparison reinforces something Tesla owners have known for years: while other automakers continue to narrow the gap, Tesla’s engineering advantage in efficiency remains one of its strongest competitive advantages.
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