As the years go on, the technology in vehicles gets more advanced. For example, one of the luxury tech features in SUVs that have been popular for consumers is massaging seats. What SUVs have this built-in masseuse-like feature? We have conducted thorough research to determine precisely which mid-size and full-size SUVs currently come equipped with massaging drive and passenger seats.
As of now, thirteen SUVs have massaging seats:
- Lincoln Nautilus (crossover)
- Porsche Cayenne (mid-size)
- Lincoln Aviator (mid-size)
- Volvo XC90 (mid-size)
- Range Rover Velar (mid-size)
- Audi E-Tron (mid-size)
- Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 (mid-size)
- Ford Edge (mid-size)
- Ford Explorer (mid-size)
- Ford Expedition (full-size)
- Lincoln Navigator (full-size)
- Lexus LX & GX (full-size)
- Rolls Royce Cullinan (full-size)
If you do a lot of driving and suffer from a sore back, shoulders, or neck, getting an SUV with massaging seats could be more than worth it. However, you can't just close your eyes and pick one of these SUVs. There is are several variables such as price, capabilities, and seating capacity. Read on as we discuss the specs of each of these vehicles and their other tech features.
What Are Massaging Seats In A Vehicle?
If you have ever walked through a city mall, you might have come across massage chairs that you can pay to use. They are enjoyable, and instead of paying an hourly rate, you can use them per minute. What if you could be driving and click a button and your vehicle's seats did the same thing?
That would be pretty sweet, right?
Massaging seats in a vehicle were first introduced in the year 2000. Mercedes and Cadillac were the first to have this relaxing feature installed in their cars. Back then, it was a luxurious feature and only available in the top of the top models. Just like self-driving cars, massaging seats in a car, SUV, or truck was viewed as futuristic. However, at the time, it was expensive to install this feature into vehicles limiting the selection of vehicles that had massaging seats.
Nonetheless, there are still cars, SUVs, and even trucks that come standard with this feature. The Ford F-150, for example, has massaging seats in their top-tier packages. Not only do the seats massage, but they also max-recline to a sleeping position. This is a spectacular feature for the long-distance traveler who needs to rest their eyes.
Read on as we discuss the mid-size and full-size SUVs that come equipped with massaging seats.
Mid-size SUVs That Have Massaging Seats
Lincoln Nautilus
The Lincoln Nautilus is a luxury crossover SUV that offers active motion massaging seats for the drive and passenger. Passengers can choose between a high and low setting.
In addition, they can choose where the placement of the massage will go. The active massaging seats are perfect for long drives to avoid muscle fatigue. The 2021 Nautilus has a starting price of $42,500 but offers about every interior bell and whistle on the market.
Porsche Cayenne
We have discussed the Porsche Cayenne in our other article What SUVs Can Tow At Least 5,000 LBS? The Cayenne has a wide range of trim packages that start at $67,500 and max out at a whopping $162,200! Here is the list of Cayenne's six models:
- Base
- E-Hybrid
- S
- GTS
- Turbo
- Turbo S E-Hybrid
Along with its long list of models, it also has a long list of tech features like massaging seats. Like the Mercedes AMG GLS 63, the Porsche Cayenne has an ample amount of towing power. Consumers can expect a max towing capacity of 7,700 LBS.
Lincoln Aviator
The Lincoln Aviator is bigger than the Nautilus and offers 3rd-row seven-passenger seating. However, like the Nautilus, it has about the same massaging seat features. In addition, the Aviator can be had in several different trim packages. The Aviator Touring is a hybrid while the Aviator Reserve is a 3.0L V6. Whichever you choose, you will be happy with the luxurious feel.
Volvo XC90
The Volvo XC90 is not only one of the safest vehicles on the market but also has comfortable seating accommodations. The massaging seats have five programs: Swell, Tread, Advanced, Lumbar, or Shoulder. In addition, passengers can choose the intensity and the speed of the massaging seats for ultimate comfort and muscle relief.
Range Rover Velar
It wouldn't be a Range Rover without luxurious features, right? Well, the Range Rover Velar is no different. Offering 16 way heated and cooled front seats with massaging features, the Velar will keep you comfortable on a road trip.
The cool thing about the Velar massaging seats is that they use a "hot stone" feature that helps soothes tight back muscles. The massaging seats offer 25 different programs so you should have no problem with one that will fit your needs.
Audi E-Tron
The next mid-size SUV on our list with massaging seats is the Audi E-Tron. If you are wondering, the "E" in E-Tron, stands for electric. The E-Tron can go a max of 222 miles before needing a charge. It still keeps Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, which is great for performance and icy roads.
The E-Tron has a starting MSRP of 65,900, which is considerably less than the Mercedes we just discussed. However, the E-Tron only seats five passengers and doesn't have the same power or towing capabilities. Nonetheless, the E-Tron still has 402 horsepower, a 5.5 second 0-60 time, and a towing capacity of 4,000 LBS.
Mercedes-AMG GLS 63
Starting off our list is the luxurious Mercedes-AMG GLS 63. Mercedes is no doubt a great German manufacturer, but it always comes with a hefty price tag. With that being said, the GLS 63 has a starting MSRP of $132,100.
If you need to work your sore muscles on a long drive, the GLS 63 can do that with its multi-contour massaging seats. But if you are craving some adrenaline, then this mid-size SUV can do that too. Equipped with a 4.0-Liter Biturbo with 603 horsepower, the AMG GLS 63 can go from a complete stop to 60mph in 4.1 seconds. Pretty impressive for an SUV that can fit seven passengers.
In addition, to its seating capacity and impressive power, the GLS 63 has a towing capacity of 7,500 LBS. That's more than enough towing capacity to tow most camper trailers for a weekend getaway.
Ford Edge
Making a switch from foreign-made SUVs to a domestic made is the Ford Edge. The Ford Edge is no stranger to the SUV market and has gone through several body design changes over the years. The Edge has a starting MSRP of $32,250 and maxes out at $43,100 for its ST package. Like the Ford F-150, the Edge has the EcoBoost engine. The 2.7-Liter twin-turbo has 335 horsepower and a max towing capacity of 3,500.
Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is a size up from the Ford Edge and offers 3rd-row seating. Like the Edge, the Explorer does have an option for massaging seats in the leather seating models. If you need more cargo space and more seating then the Explorer is a good choice. It has an excellent smart all-wheel-drive system and smooth handling.
Full-Size SUVs With Massaging Seats
Ford Expedition
Going up in size, power, and towing capabilities is the Ford Expedition. The Expedition is a powerful SUV that can accommodate up to eight passengers. The starting MSRP for Ford's largest SUV is $49,995 and tops out at $56,635. This isn't a bad price point for what the Expedition has to offer, especially when you compare it to full-size SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade. The Expedition has truck-like towing capabilities because of the body-on-frame design. This allows it to tow up to 9,300 LBS.
If you want to learn more about SUVs with full-frames, check out our article What SUVs Have Full-Frames?
Lincoln Navigator
Last on our list of SUVs that have massaging seats is the Lincoln Navigator. Like the Ford Expedition, the Lincoln Navigator has a full-frame but has a lesser towing capacity of 8,700 LBS. Nonetheless, the Navigator is a smooth-riding vehicle with an abundance of amenities.
The starting MSRP is $76,185, and this is just for its base model. Yes, their base model is pretty fancy compared to most base models on the market, but when you can get the Ford Expedition for $20,000 less, it's hard to make sense of it. This is taking into consideration that Ford Motor Company owns the Lincoln division.
Lexus LX & GX
The Lexus LX and GX are hard to beat when it comes to comfort and luxury. The German-made Nappa leather has orthopedic foam that will give you extra cushion on a long drive. The massaging seats have several programs that can be adjusted to your needs.
Both of the vehicles have excellent off-roading capabilities but what's the difference between the two? The main difference is that the Lexus LX is quite a bit bigger but other than that they both are commanding vehicles that have a nice combination of luxury and off-roading capabilities.
Rolls Royce Cullinan
The Rolls Royce has been known to be a high-class vehicle since its inception. So of course, it is has a massaging seating option. If you want this feature in the Cullinan then you will have to go with the IMMERSIVE Seating option when buying. In addition, the Rolls Royce Cullinan has impressive off-roading capabilities and is said to be able to go anywhere.
How Do Massage Seats Work?
Massage seats are great, but how do they work? Massage seats are operated by using vibration motors. These motors turn a weighted wheel, causing a rotation. When the motors spin, they help massage the muscles. Massage chairs usually come with several different modes that can be adjusted to the person's liking.
Are Massage Seats In Cars Worth It?
When it comes to getting a vehicle equipped with massage seats, there are some things to consider. One of the biggest factors is the price. Vehicles that come equipped with massage seats are usually the highest trim package which is quite pricey. However, if these vehicles are already in your budget and you can benefit from having a massager in your driver and passenger seat, then it could pay dividends on your body.
Can I Add Massage Seats To My Car?
If you are convinced that massaging seats will benefit your vehicle but don't want to buy a new vehicle, you are in luck. Vehicles with leather or cloth seats can have massaging seats added. What does it cost to install? Depending on what massage kit you choose, prices can vary. Some slip-on massage seats can be as low as $50.
If you want to get a custom kit and have them installed directly into the seat, the price can range from $250-$500. That is a big difference from buying a $50,000 vehicle! Reach out to your automotive accessories store and ask them what is available for your vehicle. This will give you a good idea of your options.
In Closing: Are Massage Seats For Me?
Vehicles are getting pretty crazy these days with all of the advanced technology. If you are already in the market for an SUV and any of these seven vehicles are in your budget, then it is worth test driving them. Even if you don't have chronic back pain, you might be surprised by how enjoyable it is to have your muscles relived during a long road trip.
If you enjoyed this article about what SUVs have massaging seats, then you might also like:
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We would love to hear from you! Leave us a comment below!
Jeff
Saturday 30th of July 2022
The VW ID.4 has massage seats.