Rivian’s Electric SUV Just Got Its Most Requested New Feature
Rivian just made a big change to its full-size electric SUV. The Rivian R1S is a large and capable electric vehicle known for its power and off-roading prowess.
It’s an SUV that can accommodate a large group of passengers and take the road less traveled thanks to its adjustable air suspension. Rivian just added a feature that drivers have been asking for since the EV launched. Here’s what R1S and electric vehicle fans need to know about the full-size SUV’s newest feature.
A More Accessible Third Row
Rivian is introducing second-row captain’s chairs on the R1S SUV for the 2027 model year. This may not seem like a huge deal, but second-row captain’s chairs can enhance the ride comfort and experience for passengers. It’s an especially attractive option for R1S fans who want an adult-sized second row that maximizes comfort.
Owners and fans of the nameplate took to Reddit to address third-row accessibility issues on previous model years. Second-row captain’s chairs provide adults and older children with more personal space, while creating a walk-through aisle to the third row.
This six-seat configuration allows drivers to keep car seats for young children undisturbed because additional passengers can access the third row without tilting the second row down.
How Much the Captain’s Chairs Cost
There’s still plenty to learn about the 2027 Rivian R1S, but Rivian did reveal some feature pricing information to USA TODAY Cars. The cost of adding captain’s chairs depends on which trim you choose.
Rivian’s full-size electric SUV is available in three trims for 2027: Premium ($83,990), Performance ($106,99) and the Quad ($121,990). Second-row captain’s chairs are available on every trim, but the feature is bundled with another package on the base model.
If you want those seats in your base-model 2027 Rivian R1S Premium, you also have to get the sound and vision package. The package combined with the captain’s chairs will run an additional $4,000: $1,500 for the chairs and $2,500 for the sound and vision package.
Drivers who opt for the Performance trim can add the option separately for an additional $1,500. Note that there’s a $20,000-plus price difference between the Premium and Performance trims.
What Else the R1S Offers
The 2027 Rivian R1S produces 533 horsepower and has 329 miles of range. It can go from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 4.5 seconds, and upper trims like the Quad are even quicker. The EV comes with a North American Charging Standard port, enabling quick and easy charging sessions at Tesla Superchargers without an adapter.
Rivian’s family SUV has standard features such as heated and ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Its 14.9-inch maximum ground clearance also makes it one of the better new EVs for off-roading.
If you can look past its high starting price, the R1S offers performance, technology and real-world capabilities for shoppers considering a full-size electric SUV.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Rivian’s electric SUV just got its most requested new feature. Reporting by Charles Singh, USA TODAY / USA TODAY. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
