One of the big selling points for any EV segment is the quiet, comfortable operation of the all-electric powertrain. However, South Korean automaker Hyundai (as well as the slightly smaller car brand, Kia) has further comfort options when it’s time to top off at the local charging station, offering up its Relaxation Comfort reclining seat feature. All in all, this is a nice feature to have, and one which, in our opinion, should also be available from GM.
Available in select Hyundai and Kia vehicles, as well as certain Genesis models, the “Relaxation Comfort” reclining seats provide a restful experience by adjusting to an optimal setting while parked. With the system enabled, the front seats can recline almost fully rearwards, pairing with a power leg rest for added comfort. This provides a cozy, near-horizontal position akin to a dentist chair, perfect for taking a nap or reading a book while the vehicle is parked.
“Relaxation Comfort” seats can be found in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the Hyundai Santa Fe, the Kia EV9 (which also includes power leg rests for second-row captain’s chairs), and the Genesis GV60.
Using the feature is straightforward. Users simply have to press and hold the correct seat switch for one second, which will trigger an on-screen notification. Press the switch again within five seconds to fully engage the reclining feature, automatically adjusting the seat back, cushion angle, and leg rest. To return to the regular seating position, press the switch’s left side.
GM currently doesn’t offer this specific functionality in any of its EVs. While Cadillac’s Executive Second-Row Seating Package for the Escalade IQ provides luxury and flexibility, it doesn’t include the power leg rests. These kinds of features would be especially valuable for Cadillac and GMC luxury EVs, elevating the overall experience while keeping pace with Hyundai and Kia.
By providing a relaxation mode similar to “Relaxation Comfort,” GM could help its luxury EVs stand out in their respective segments, enabling passengers to wait for their charge in ultimate comfort. To us, it seems like a no-brainer.
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Comments
Waiting for the charge is the problem. If that wasn’t the case, this feature would be unnecessary, like many of HKGs features. Flash for the sake of flash.
Whats worng with putting Comfort Reclining front Passenger Seats in Gas Cadillacs? I am never going to buy a EV in Michigan. My wife could shore use one.
That guy in the photos does not look comfortable.
Reclining outside a gas station,
not paying attention to your surroundings,
holding your $1000+ phone in the air for everyone to see…
sounds like a great way to become a statistic!
Good point Dan, so I’m driving down the road and the person behind me is sticking his/her/them/its foot up my a$$ while I’m driving. This wheelbase is to small for this feature. The Chinese van that GM turned into a Buick has reclining captain seats for rear seat passengers and has enough room for this feature.
This option is the only thing missing on the Cadillac IQ. This feature will increase their sales tremendously.