Quick Takeaways
- Rivian will add second-row captain’s chairs to R1S in 2027.
- The upgrade costs up to $4,500 with optional packages and themes.
- New trim tiers and features, including off-road wheels and silver paint, announced.
- R1S pricing increases, starting at $83,990, with important luxury and tech features.
Rivian Addresses Customer Feedback with New Seating Options
For years, Rivian R1S owners voiced a common complaint: the lack of captain’s chairs in the second row. Many felt that replacing the bench seat with standalone seats would improve comfort and accessibility. Parents found loading children difficult, especially with car seats. Some owners even considered aftermarket solutions, removing the bench altogether.
Rivian responded by announcing that captain’s chairs will arrive in the 2027 model year refresh. The new seats will be part of the R1 lineup and give owners more flexibility. This update shows Rivian’s willingness to listen to customer feedback and improve the vehicle’s practicality. The captain’s chairs include armrests, cupholders, and heating. They can fold flat and retain full car seat tie-downs. The pass-through between rows will make loading long gear easier. Owners can still choose the traditional bench seat if they prefer seating seven passengers.
While the chairs bring added convenience, they come with a higher price tag. Buyers will need to pay $2,500 for the Sound and Vision package, which includes other features like a glass roof and upgraded audio. The chairs themselves will cost an additional $1,500 with the Black Mountain interior or $2,000 with the Ocean theme. This means some customers could pay up to $4,500 for the new seating setup.
Beyond Seating: Other Updates for the 2027 Model Year
The 2027 refresh includes more than just new seats. Rivian plans to change its naming scheme to align better with other models. Instead of using terms like Dual or Tri motor, it will use trim tiers: Premium, Performance, and the Halo Quad. All vehicles will keep the same performance levels, including range, horsepower, and acceleration.
The R1T truck also gets new off-road tires, enhancing traction without sacrificing range. Standard on the R1T Premium and optional on the Performance, the new Goodyear wheels aim to improve off-road adventures. Rivian introduces Esker Silver, a new liquid-metal paint option for both R1 models.
Prices for 2027 models will increase. The R1T will start at $79,990, and the R1S at $83,990 — both excluding fees. Rivian has stopped offering some lower-priced trims, like the Dual Standard package, which had smaller batteries and less range. The higher price reflects the continued focus on high-end features and technology. Despite the cost, Rivian’s strategy aims to strengthen its reputation for luxury and innovation, especially as the smaller R2 models bring more affordable options to the market.
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