Two Types of Car Seats

Custom seat covers can be installed in the front seats (bucket seats) or the rear seat (bench seat). A bucket seat is built to hold one person as opposed to bench seats that are designed for seating multiple people. In most vehicles, there are two bucket seats in the front compartment and a bench seat in the back. The gear shifter and parking brake lever are located between the two front bucket seats. This area may also feature small storage compartments and cup holders.

For many years, the front compartment of American vehicles featured bench seats. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the bucket seat gained popularity. This was due to an increase production of compact vehicles and sporty cars like Ford Mustang. The preferred seating arrangement for trucks and vans were bench seats in the front to accommodate up to three people. In the 1990s, however, trucks began to offer bucket seats in the front for those who preferred a sportier looking vehicle. Minivans often feature a bucket seat in the back compartment as well. Many professional racing vehicles feature only one bucket seat.

Consumers installing car seat covers should purchase matching bucket seat covers and bench seat covers for an attractive-looking interior.