Luxury Models
Within the luxury segment, the Lexus brand is known for unruffled ride quality that's especially back-friendly. Lexus sedans such as the GS 350 and flagship LS 460 also feature seats that have a wide range of adjustments.
The GS 350 features a standard 10-way power-adjustable driver seat, says Lexus spokesperson Allison Takahashi, and the LS 460 offers an even wider range of settings.
"The LS 460 features a standard 16-way power driver seat with fore/aft slide, up/down, seat cushion front-tilt up/down, seat cushion height up/down, seat cushion firmness, cushion length, lumbar support and fore/aft recline adjustments," she says.
Mercedes-Benz models like the E-Class sedan and wagon, GL-Class SUV and S-Class sedan provide serene ride comfort and agreeable seats, especially with the available multicontour driver seat.
"Our active multicontour seat features inflatable air chambers that allow a driver to adjust the seat to suit his or her physique," says Christian Bokich with Mercedes-Benz Product and Technology Communications. These seats come recommended by AGR, a German spinal health organization, he says.
Certain Mercedes-Benz models also feature massaging seats, Bokich says. Most notably, the S-Class offers a massage setting that incorporates the seat's heating elements to simulate hot-stone massage.
While BMW is known for building models that emphasize sportiness, certain choices in the lineup deliver this engaging driving experience without compromising ride comfort. The BMW 3 Series boasts a smooth ride quality and well-designed seats that feature a multitude of adjustments.
Volvo is perhaps best known for its achievements in the area of safety, but the manufacturer also has a reputation for crafting vehicles that boast supremely comfortable seats. The S60 sedan and XC60 SUV are just two examples of Volvos with back-coddling seating.
"Volvo seats have been praised by our owners for years," says Joe Haslem, Volvo brand manager. The seats in the S60 and XC60 were developed by orthopedic specialists to provide outstanding comfort and support during long drives, he says.