In the ever-evolving world of automotive design, some trends come and go, while others make a nostalgic comeback. One such trend is the front bench seat. Popular in mid-20th-century American cars, front bench seats have largely been replaced by individual bucket seats in most modern vehicles.
However, there is still a demand for this classic feature, and some automakers are bringing it back in their new models. This blog explores the latest new cars with front bench seats, delving into their designs, features, and the unique appeal they offer to drivers and passengers.
The Appeal of Front Bench Seats
Front bench seats offer a unique set of advantages that make them appealing to certain drivers:
- Spaciousness: Bench seats provide more seating space, allowing three people to sit comfortably in the front row.
- Vintage Charm: They evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of classic cars from the 1950s and 1960s.
- Practicality: Bench seats can make it easier to slide across the front row, which is particularly useful in tight parking situations or for those with mobility issues.
- Family-Friendly: They offer a more communal seating arrangement, which can be beneficial for families or groups of friends traveling together.
New Cars with Front Bench Seats
Note: For this blog, we conducted comprehensive research using authoritative automotive websites, such as Edmunds and MotorTrend. We examined the latest models and trends, focusing on their features and availability.
While front bench seats are not as common as they once were, some manufacturers still offer them in their new models. Here are a few notable examples:
2016 Ford F-150
The 2016 Ford F-150 is a standout in the realm of full-size trucks, known for its versatility, strength, and modern features. One of its notable options is the front bench seat, which enhances the vehicle’s utility and comfort.
- Spaciousness: The F-150’s front bench seat provides ample room with 66.7 inches of shoulder room and 62.5 inches of hip room. This makes it one of the roomiest options for front bench seating, ensuring comfort for three front-row passengers.
- Versatility: The middle seat can be folded down to form a center armrest with integrated cup holders. This feature adds a level of versatility, allowing for a more traditional feel or additional seating when needed.
- Modern Amenities: Despite its classic seating arrangement, the F-150 does not skimp on modern features. The truck is equipped with advanced infotainment systems, safety features, and premium materials, providing a blend of old-school charm and contemporary convenience.
2016 Ram 1500
The 2016 Ram 1500 is renowned for its smooth ride, luxurious interior, and strong performance. The inclusion of a these seat adds to its appeal for those seeking both functionality and comfort.
- Interior Space: The Ram 1500 offers the most hip room (62.9 inches) among vehicles with front bench seats, along with 66 inches of shoulder room. This ensures that all passengers have ample space, contributing to a comfortable ride.
- Practicality: Available in regular, quad, and crew cab styles, the front bench seat in the Ram 1500 is versatile and practical. The center jump seat can fold down to serve as a storage console, making the truck even more functional.
- Luxury Features: Higher trims of the Ram 1500 come with luxurious touches such as leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and advanced infotainment systems, making it a well-rounded choice for any driver.
2016 Toyota Tundra
The 2016 Toyota Tundra combines reliability, performance, and comfort, making it a strong contender in the full-size truck market. Its front bench seat option is particularly appealing for those who need additional seating capacity without compromising on features.
- Comfort and Space: The Tundra provides 66.7 inches of shoulder room and 62 inches of hip room, ensuring that passengers are comfortable even on long journeys.
- Availability: The bench seat is available in the SR and SR5 trim levels, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. These trims offer a balance of essential features and affordability.
- Utility: Known for its robust build and reliability, the Tundra’s bench seat option does not detract from its performance capabilities. It remains a practical choice for both work and leisure.
2016 Chevrolet Silverado
The 2016 Chevrolet Silverado is a well-rounded truck that offers strength, durability, and a comfortable interior. The availability of a front bench seat adds to its versatility, catering to drivers who need extra seating options.
- Luxury and Comfort: In its LTZ trims, the Silverado features a 40/20/40 front bench seat configuration with leather appointments. Both the driver and front passenger seats are 10-way power adjustable, ensuring a comfortable ride.
- Functional Design: The middle seat can be converted into a storage-friendly armrest, adding to the truck’s functionality. This design allows for additional seating without sacrificing comfort or practicality.
- Advanced Features: The Silverado is equipped with modern amenities, including a touch-screen infotainment system, advanced safety features, and premium materials throughout the interior.
2016 GMC Sierra
The 2016 GMC Sierra shares many attributes with its cousin, the Chevrolet Silverado, but adds its own touches of luxury and innovation. The front bench seat is a key feature for those who need a versatile and comfortable interior.
- Comfortable Seating: The Sierra offers a leather-appointed front bench seat with outboard heating, power adjustability, and memory settings. This ensures that all passengers can enjoy a premium level of comfort.
- Innovative Safety: The Sierra includes a Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates to warn the driver of potential hazards. This feature adds an extra layer of safety and convenience.
- Robust Build: Known for its durability and performance, the Sierra’s bench seat option complements its robust build, making it a practical choice for a variety of driving needs.
2016 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
Both the 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban are full-size SUVs that offer the practicality of three-row seating with the added benefit of front bench seats. This configuration allows these vehicles to accommodate up to nine passengers, making them ideal for larger families or groups.
- Spacious Interiors: Both models provide ample interior space, ensuring that all passengers have sufficient room to be comfortable. The front bench seat adds to this spaciousness, making these SUVs versatile for various seating arrangements.
- Flexibility: The front bench seat is available in several trims, allowing buyers to choose the level of luxury and features that best suit their needs. This flexibility makes the Tahoe and Suburban appealing to a wide range of customers.
- Advanced Features: Equipped with modern technology and safety features, these SUVs offer a blend of old-school seating charm and contemporary convenience. Features such as touch-screen infotainment, advanced safety systems, and premium materials are standard in higher trims.
The Comeback of Bench Seats in Modern Cars
While full-size pickup trucks are the primary vehicles offering front bench seats today, the revival of this classic feature is not limited to trucks alone. Automakers are recognizing the appeal of bench seats and incorporating them into other types of vehicles, albeit in a limited capacity.
Retro-Inspired Designs
Some manufacturers are exploring retro-inspired designs in their new models, incorporating front bench seats to evoke a sense of nostalgia. These designs appeal to drivers who appreciate the vintage look and feel while still enjoying modern amenities.
Customization Options
Customization is another avenue through which front bench seats are making a comeback. Some car manufacturers and aftermarket companies offer customization options that include installing bench seats in modern vehicles. This allows car enthusiasts to personalize their cars and incorporate features that reflect their unique tastes and preferences.
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