How Does the 2024 Rivian R1S Perform in a Car Seat Safety Check?

Based on our expert car seat installation assessment, the 2024 Rivian R1S provides excellent LATCH system accessibility but has limited space for three car seats, with third-row legroom being a significant constraint for forward-facing models. This electric luxury SUV earns high marks for its well-marked and easy-to-use anchors in both the second and third rows, making it a strong contender for families, though not without some compromises.

How Accessible Is the Rivian R1S's LATCH System?

The LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) in the Rivian R1S is exceptionally user-friendly. In the second row, the two sets of lower anchors are situated about an inch into the seat bight—the crease where the seatback and bottom cushion meet—making them straightforward to find and connect. The three top tether anchors at the top of the seatbacks are also well-marked. This ease of access earned the R1S an A grade for its LATCH system. The third row continues this positive trend, with lower anchors less than an inch deep and clearly marked top tether anchors midway down the seatbacks, also receiving an A grade.

Can You Fit an Infant Seat in the Rivian R1S?

Installing an infant seat, like the Chicco KeyFit 30 used in our check, is a relatively simple process. The rigid LATCH connectors connected to the lower anchors with ease. However, to achieve a proper installation, we had to move the front passenger seat forward slightly. This adjustment provided acceptable legroom for a 5-foot-7-inch passenger, but taller individuals will find it restrictive. This space compromise resulted in a B grade for the infant seat installation.

What Is the Experience with Rear-Facing and Forward-Facing Convertible Seats?

For a rear-facing convertible seat, such as the Graco Contender 65, we slightly reclined the seatback to better expose the lower anchors for the seat's narrower, hook-like connectors. Similar to the infant seat, this installation requires moving the front seat forward, limiting legroom for taller front-seat passengers and earning a B grade. When switched to forward-facing mode, the same convertible seat fits very well. We kept the seat reclined, which aided installation, and properly routed the top tether strap over the head restraint as per the manual, resulting in a top A grade for this configuration.

How Well Does the R1S Accommodate a Booster Seat?

The booster seat installation was straightforward. The Graco TurboBooster fit well, and the second-row head restraints are removable to achieve an optimal fit. A notable drawback is that the seat belt buckles in the second row are floppy, which could make it difficult for a child to fasten themselves independently. This issue led to a B grade for the booster seat.

Is the Third Row of the Rivian R1S Practical for Car Seats?

Accessing the third row is managed by a button on the top of the second-row outer seats that folds and slides them forward. The step-in height is considerable, and the walkway is narrow, though manageable for children. Once inside, installing a forward-facing convertible seat is easy due to the wide seats, but the non-removable head restraint can push the car seat away from the seatback. The most significant issue is extremely tight third-row legroom when the second row is positioned all the way back. The booster seat installation is also simple, with stable seat belt buckles, but again, the fixed head restraint is a minor issue. Both third-row installations received a B grade.

Based on our assessment experience, the 2024 Rivian R1S is a solid choice for families needing to install one or two car seats with its excellent LATCH system. However, it cannot comfortably accommodate three car seats. Key considerations include:

• Prioritize the second row for child seats when possible for easier access and more space.
• Be prepared to adjust front passenger seating to achieve proper installation for rear-facing seats.
• Use the third row selectively for older children in booster seats or for shorter trips due to legroom limitations.
• Practice with the floppy second-row buckles if a child will be using a booster seat to ensure they can fasten it independently.