The 2027 Rivian R1S now offers a six-seat cabin with second-row captain’s chairs, an option Rivian says customers have requested more than any other interior feature. Rivian is also simplifying the R1S and R1T lineup into Premium, Performance and Quad trims while retaining the existing seven-seat R1S.

Photo by: Rivian
R1S Gains Second-Row Captain’s Chairs
The biggest cabin change for 2027 is the new six-passenger R1S configuration. Instead of the standard second-row bench, buyers can select two individual captain’s chairs on every trim.
Pricing for the seating option begins at $1,500, although choosing it also requires Rivian’s Sound + Vision package. That package costs between $2,500 and $4,500, depending on the selected trim and configuration.
Both captain’s chairs are heated and can fold flat. Rivian also equips them with child-seat attachment points, individual armrests that store against the seatbacks, and cup holders that deploy from the inner side of each seat base.
Removing the center portion of the bench creates another practical benefit: passengers can reach the third row through the space between the two seats without first moving the second row.
When the rear seats are folded, the center opening can also accommodate long cargo such as skis or surfboards while leaving the captain’s chairs available for passengers.
Buyers who need maximum seating capacity can still order the conventional seven-seat R1S.
Rivian Simplifies R1S and R1T Trim Names
Rivian is also changing how it organizes its flagship SUV and pickup. Instead of primarily identifying versions by motor count, the 2027 range is divided into Premium, Performance and Quad models, bringing the naming system closer to the newer R2.
Premium serves as the entry point and uses a dual-motor AWD system producing 533 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque.
With the standard battery and the most efficient wheel configuration, Rivian estimates 329 miles of range for both the R1S and R1T. An optional performance upgrade raises output to 665 hp and 829 lb-ft, allowing acceleration from zero to 60 mph in as little as 3.4 seconds.
A Long Range battery configuration extends estimated range to 410 miles for the R1S and 420 miles for the R1T.
Performance and Quad Remain the High-Power Choices
The new Performance trim effectively takes the place of the previous Tri model and retains a three-motor powertrain.
Output reaches 850 hp and 1,103 lb-ft of torque, while Rivian quotes a 2.9-second zero-to-60-mph time. Both the R1S Performance and R1T Performance carry an EPA-estimated range of 371 miles.
Quad remains the highest-performance version. Its four-motor system develops 1,025 hp and 1,198 lb-ft, with the R1T capable of reaching 60 mph in 2.5 seconds.
EPA-estimated range for the Quad configuration is 374 miles for both body styles.
The revised naming strategy therefore changes how customers navigate the lineup without fundamentally replacing the powertrain technology underneath each version.
New Wheels, Paint and Interior Names Arrive for 2027
Rivian is making several smaller specification changes alongside the new seating and trim structure.
A new standard exterior color called Esker Silver, previously associated with the R2, joins the R1 lineup. The R1T also receives a new standard 20-inch wheel and all-terrain tire setup designed to improve capability away from pavement.
There is a range trade-off. With the new Goodyear all-terrain tires, the Premium configuration is rated at approximately 300 miles, below its maximum figure with more efficiency-focused wheels.
Interior naming has also been brought closer to the R2 system. Premium buyers can select Black Mountain or Ocean Coast, while Performance and Quad models offer Signature themes including Slate Sky Signature, Black Mountain Signature and Ocean Coast Signature.
Pricing Remains Similar Despite the Updates
The 2027 R1T starts at $79,000, while the 2027 R1S begins at $83,990. The R1S starting price remains unchanged from the previous model year.
Rather than introducing a major mechanical redesign, Rivian is using the 2027 update to make its flagship models easier to configure and more flexible for families.
The six-seat cabin is particularly significant because it addresses a longstanding request without eliminating the existing seven-passenger layout. Combined with the simplified trim structure, the changes also bring the older R1 family into closer alignment with Rivian’s expanding product range as the R2 becomes a larger part of the company’s lineup.
Photo by: Rivian
FAQ
Does the 2027 Rivian R1S have captain’s chairs?
Yes. The 2027 R1S can be configured with two second-row captain’s chairs, creating a six-seat interior. Rivian says this has been its most requested cabin feature.
Can you still get a seven-seat Rivian R1S?
Yes. Rivian continues to offer the second-row bench and seven-passenger layout for buyers who need the additional seating position.
How much does the six-seat R1S option cost?
The captain’s-chair configuration starts at $1,500, but it requires the Sound + Vision package. The final additional cost varies depending on the selected trim and interior.
What are the 2027 Rivian R1S and R1T trims?
The lineup is now organized into Premium, Performance and Quad versions. Premium uses two motors, Performance has three, and Quad remains the four-motor flagship.
What is the longest range of the 2027 Rivian R1?
The Long Range Premium configuration offers the highest estimates, reaching 410 miles in the R1S and 420 miles in the R1T.
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