Rivian is finally getting a long-requested feature

Rivian has overhauled its flagship vehicle lineup for the 2027 model year, introducing a long-awaited cabin configuration for its electric SUV alongside a simplified naming structure that mirrors its upcoming compact R2 platform. The headline addition for buyers is the introduction of second-row captain's chairs on the R1S SUV. Previously limited to a standard bench seat across all configurations, the R1S can now be ordered with a six-seat setup featuring a center pass-through. These new seats include built-in heating, individual armrests that stow flush when not in use, and pop-out cupholders sprouting from the cushion edges. Depending on the chosen interior theme, adding these captain's chairs carries an extra cost starting at $1,500 for Premium and Performance trims, and rising to $4,500 when paired with the Slate Sky Signature theme, which incorporates plaid detailing and walnut wood accents.

Alongside the interior refresh, Rivian has jettisoned its previous motor-count trim naming conventions, replacing the old Dual and Tri labels with Premium and Performance monikers, while the ultra-powerful Quad tier carries forward. The entry-level R1 Premium delivers 533 horsepower, though buyers can select a $5,000 power upgrade that boosts output to 655 hp and 829 pound-feet of torque, cutting the zero-to-sixty sprint from 4.5 to 3.4 seconds. Mid-tier Performance models punch out 850 hp, while the top-spec Quad configuration unleashes 1,025 hp. Interior theme names have also been standardized around the R2 naming blueprint, encompassing Slate Sky Signature, Black Mountain Signature, and Ocean Coast Signature options.

For the R1T pickup, mechanical and capability updates take center stage. Rivian is outfitting the truck with new 20-inch Adventure All-Season wheels wrapped in more capable Goodyear tires designed to balance off-road bite with highway efficiency. This package comes standard on the base Premium trim and serves as a no-cost option on the Performance variant, yielding EPA range estimates ranging up to 380 miles on Premium Long Range versions.

Pricing adjustments accompany the 2027 model year transition. As competition intensifies within the electric truck and luxury SUV segments against a backdrop of crowded rivals, these targeted updates aim to keep Rivian's flagship hardware fresh without requiring a ground-up redesign.