Rivian Unveils 2027 Refresh for R1S SUV and R1T Pickup

Rivian announced a 2027 model-year refresh for its flagship R1S SUV and R1T pickup. The most visible change is the introduction of optional second-row captain’s chairs on the R1S, replacing the standard bench seat and reducing seating capacity from seven to six. The chairs feature heated seats, stow-away armrests, pop-out cupholders, and retain full car-seat tie-down anchors. They are offered through the Sound and Vision package, with pricing that ranges from $1,500 for the Black Mountain interior theme to $4,500 when paired with the premium Slate Sky Signature theme.

The VergeCar and Driver

The R1T receives a new 20-inch Adventure All-Season wheel-and-tire package, standard on the Premium trim and available at no extra cost on the Performance trim. Rivian says the package improves off-road traction while preserving EPA-rated range, which it estimates at 300 mi for the Premium version, 380 mi for the Premium Long-Range, and 348 mi for the Performance model.

Car and Driver

Rivian is retiring its motor-count naming scheme (Dual, Tri, Quad) in favor of three trim tiers—Premium, Performance, and Quad—mirroring the strategy used for the newer R2 compact SUV. Interior themes have also been renamed: Slate Sky Signature, Black Mountain Signature, and Ocean Coast Signature, each pairing distinct wood accents with theme-specific upholstery.

Car and Driver

Base pricing rises across the board. The R1S now starts at $85,885, up from $83,990 the previous year, while the R1T begins at $81,885, an increase of $7,000 over the prior model. Earlier this summer, Rivian discontinued the entry-level Dual-Motor Standard Pack, which had offered lower prices ($76,990 for the R1S and $72,990 for the R1T) but also smaller batteries and reduced range.

The VergeCar and Driver

Rivian positions the refreshed R1 lineup as a high-end revenue source that validates its in-house autonomy technology and sustains the brand’s luxury reputation, even as the smaller, lower-priced R2 targets mass-market customers. The added comfort and capability features aim to keep the R1S competitive against an expanding field of midsize luxury EVs and to reinforce the R1T’s standing in the off-road-capable electric pickup segment.

Car and Driver

Rivian described the captain’s chairs as a “highly requested” feature that improves access to the third row and facilitates loading of long gear such as surfboards and skis. The company also highlighted that the new wheel-and-tire package delivers better off-road performance without sacrificing range, aligning with its broader goal of balancing capability and everyday usability across the R1 family.

Car and Driver