Rivian Introduces the Most Requested R1S Feature

      Rivian

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      Families, luxury SUV shoppers, and anyone online, Rivian has listened to your requests: the R1S will now feature second-row captain’s chairs.

      On Thursday, the 2027 Rivian R1T and R1S were revealed with an updated trim lineup, a new color option, and indeed, captain’s chairs for the second row of the R1S. Both models are now available for purchase, maintaining their price points. The starting price for the R1T is $81,885, while the R1S starts at $85,885, which includes an $1,895 destination charge.

      Rivian is simplifying its current range of motor-driven trims, aligning the R1 models with the new R2 configurations. The entry-level dual motor models are now termed the Premium model, while the tri-motor variants have been rebranded as the Performance trim, and the Quad trim remains unchanged. Power outputs, performance characteristics, battery setups, and range remain consistent, with the Premium R1S offering up to 410 miles of EPA-estimated range and the R1T reaching 420 miles.

      Rivian stated that the second-row captain’s chairs have been the most sought-after interior feature so far. With the addition of this seating option in the R1S lineup, the three-row SUV can now be arranged to accommodate either six or seven passengers. However, this new seating arrangement is part of a complex pricing and options structure, with the six-seat configuration adding between $4,000 and $6,000 to the total cost, depending on the trim and interior color chosen. The captain's chairs themselves represent a $1,500 option but require the bundling of packages or expensive interior colors.

      The captain’s chairs are mounted on rails, allowing them to slide, and can tilt forward at the push of a seat-back button for easier access to the third row, similar to the current bench seat. These chairs can also fold flat like the bench, creating a completely flat cargo area for those looking to use the six-seat R1S for camping with an air mattress at night. The captain’s chairs are heated, equipped with LATCH and top-tether anchors, feature individual armrests that can fold flush with the seat edge, and have built-in cup holders that fold down from the inner edge of the seat.

      Rivian anticipates that the costly second-row captain’s chairs will be a popular choice, as the bench seat will only be available for the R1S Premium, R1S Performance, and Quad models with the Black Mountain Signature interior. Customers wishing to configure an R1S Performance or Quad with a Slate Sky or Ocean Coast interior along with the second-row bench seat will not have that option, as these configurations are now exclusive to six-seater setups.

      A new Esker Silver color, described as having a liquid-metal finish, transitions from the R2 to the R1 lineup, taking the place of LA Silver. Additionally, Rivian introduced a new standard 20-inch wheel design for the R1T, equipped with Goodyear all-season tires, which will also be available for R1T Performance models.

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