What year did Ford stop making bench seats?
Ford Motor Company, one of the largest automakers in the world, has officially discontinued the production of bench seats in its vehicles starting in 2021. This marks a significant shift in the automotive industry, as bench seats have been a staple feature in many Ford models for decades.
The Decline of the Bench Seat
Bench seats, which allow for a continuous seating surface across the front of the vehicle, have been a common sight in American cars for much of the 20th century. However, in recent years, the popularity of bench seats has waned, with many automakers, including Ford, opting for more individualized bucket seats instead.
The reasons for this shift are multifaceted:
- Improved safety features: Bucket seats often provide better side-impact protection and allow for the integration of advanced safety technologies, such as airbags and seatbelts.
- Increased comfort and customization: Bucket seats offer more individual support and adjustability, allowing drivers and passengers to find their optimal seating position.
- Changing consumer preferences: Younger generations of car buyers have shown a preference for the sportier, more modern look and feel of bucket seats.
As a result of these factors, Ford has made the decision to phase out bench seats in favor of bucket seats across its entire lineup of vehicles.
The Impact on Ford's Lineup
The discontinuation of bench seats will have a significant impact on Ford's vehicle offerings. Many of the company's iconic models, such as the Ford F-150 pickup truck and the Ford Mustang, have long been associated with the bench seat configuration.
However, Ford has stated that the transition to bucket seats will not compromise the functionality or versatility of its vehicles:
- The new bucket seat designs will still offer ample space and flexibility, with the ability to fold down or slide forward to accommodate cargo and passengers.
- Ford has also promised to maintain the same level of seating capacity in its vehicles, ensuring that families and larger groups can still be accommodated.
While the end of the bench seat era may be bittersweet for some Ford enthusiasts, the company believes that the move to bucket seats will ultimately improve the overall driving experience and better meet the evolving needs of its customers.
Why aren t bench seats used anymore?
Automakers wanted to be able to install automatic seatbelts and airbags in cars and had a hard time making them for the center seat on the bench. Over time, carmakers crammed more stuff into the center console between the two bucket seats — everything from music players to climate controls and gear shifters.
When did Ford stop making the Highboy?
1977.5
What year is the Ford highboy? The Ford highboy spans from 1967 to 1977.5, with 4WD and a longer front driveshaft for more clearance and a higher front end, earning it the nickname “Highboy.”
What was the last car with a front bench seat?
Chevrolet Impala
In 2014, the Chevrolet Impala, the last U.S. sedan with a front bench seat, was redesigned with two buckets — ending an era in automotive design. But Road & Track reports that automakers are bringing it back from the dead.
What was the last production car with a bench seat?
Chevrolet Impala
They were standard equipment on the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car until they were discontinued in 2011. As of 2013, it was reported that only one American automobile, the Chevrolet Impala was sold with a bench seat, and the option was terminated in the next model year.
When did they stop putting bench seats in cars?
They were standard equipment on the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car until they were discontinued in 2011. As of 2013, it was reported that only one American automobile, the Chevrolet Impala was sold with a bench seat, and the option was terminated in the next model year.
Which Ford trucks have bench seats?
Find ample passenger and interior storage room with the 2024 Ford F-150 cab options. The regular cab can seat up to three passengers with a single bench seat. The super and Super Crew® cabs add a rear bench seat and can seat five with front bucket seats or six with a front bench seat.
Do any cars have front bench seats anymore?
In recent years, Land Rover, Chevrolet, and Hyundai have all re-investing in the ancient three-abreast layout.
Why did cars get rid of the bench seat?
The requirements of crash worthiness necessitated the removal of the middle passenger from the front seat. The design and function of the front air bags can only protect the passengers with three point shoulder seat belts. It is impossible to properly restrain the middle passenger and have them protected by an airbag.
When did cars stop having bench seats?
They were standard equipment on the Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car until they were discontinued in 2011. As of 2013, it was reported that only one American automobile, the Chevrolet Impala was sold with a bench seat, and the option was terminated in the next model year.
Can you still get a truck with a bench seat?
Trucks and full size suvs (suburban, etc) still come with bench seats.
