Rivian to introduce captain’s chairs in 2027 R1S refresh
The 2027 model year update sees the R1S and R1T gain new pricing, rebranded tiers, and optional second-row captain’s chairs bundled with the Sound and Vision package.
Rivian has confirmed that second-row captain’s chairs will be available for the R1S as part of the 2027 model year refresh. The feature, identified by the manufacturer as its most requested addition, addresses longstanding owner complaints regarding the difficulty of installing child seats and accessing the third row in the current bench configuration.
The captain’s chairs will not be available as a standalone option. Buyers must purchase the Sound and Vision package, which includes a glass roof and an enhanced audio system, for an additional $2,500. The seating upgrade itself adds a further $1,500 for the Black Mountain interior theme or $2,000 for the Ocean theme, bringing the total cost for the new configuration to as much as $4,500.
Each captain’s chair features stowaway armrests, push-to-release cupholders, heating elements, and full car seat tie-downs. They also fold flat to create a passthrough between the second and third rows, a design choice Rivian theorises will facilitate the transport of long items such as surfboards and skis. The traditional second-row bench remains available for customers preferring to seat seven passengers.
Alongside the seating update, Rivian is transitioning away from its motor-count naming scheme of Dual, Tri, and Quad. The 2027 R1 lineup will instead utilise three curated trim tiers: Premium, Performance, and Quad. This rebranding aligns the R1 nomenclature with the upcoming R2 model. Performance specifications, including range, horsepower, and acceleration figures, remain unchanged across the refresh.
New pricing structures have been introduced for the 2027 model year, reflecting the discontinuation of entry-level Dual Motor Standard Pack options earlier this year. The R1T now starts at $79,990, while the R1S begins at $83,990, both before fees. The R1T Premium trim receives new 20-inch Goodyear Adventure All-Season wheels and tires as standard equipment, with the same set available as a no-cost option on the Performance trim. A new Esker Silver paint finish, previously introduced on the R2, will be available for both the R1S and R1T.
The R1 series continues to serve as a critical revenue stream for Rivian, anchoring the brand’s luxury reputation and supporting the development of in-house autonomy technology. While the smaller, more affordable R2 targets the mass market, the R1 lineup provides high-end sales volume that underpins the company’s financial positioning.
