With ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft growing in prominence, and autonomous vehicles on the drawing boards, some auto makers are gearing efforts toward the passenger rather than the driver. Seen on the New York auto show floor this week are executive lounges with serious space and luxurious appointments for rear-seat riders.
Lincoln’s new Navigator is a mini RV with all comforts of home. As a concept, it gives you a glimpse into the details designers are focusing on. The funky gullwing doors are aesthetically pleasing, yet functional as they make it easier to access the rear seats. Three deployable steps offer a boost into the cabin. Inside, the seats are as big, comfy and plush as your living room sofa – they adjust 30-ways for the perfect seating position.
A skylight above the seats makes it feel open and airy inside. Seven large screens allow passengers to interact with one another or be used individually. They can play games, such as chess or cards, with each other. Or they can put the driver’s face on the screen to have a quasi “face-to-face” conversation while the driver is at the wheel. A custom wardrobe system hidden in the back is larger and nicer than some home closets . Incorporated into the cargo area is a storage system with specific slots for everything from watches and sunglasses to shoes and wallets. Non-smokers might cringe, but there’s even a spot to store your lighter so it doesn’t get lost while driving around town.
The Range Rover SV Autobiography trim has one of the most spacious and luxurious rear cabins available in a SUV, with power rear tables, a mini cooler for drinks and massage/reclining seats. But the best part is the leg room. Because its a long-wheelbase trim, there’s an extra 7.3 inches and the headroom is fit for a king -- no wonder it is the Queen’s favourite ride.
In back of the new BMW 7-Series sedan, the sculpted, heated and ventilated rear seats are spa-like – they have a massage function, and recline into a sleeping position too. An android tablet accesses everything from the rear including climate control and accent lighting, which can be changed from purple to blue to yellow.
If you have a family, the new Volvo XC90 Excellence has four seats instead of the usual seven. You can skip the front-passenger seat and opt instead for a customized rear-facing child seat. The two individual rear seats offer plenty of leg room. Like the Bimmer, the rear seats recline and have a massage function. Other features include folding tray tables, a mini fridge, heated and cooled cup holders, and a set of hand-crafted Swedish crystal glasses – just in case you’re in the mood for a picnic on the road.
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