Last modified: Aug 14, 2024

Seat Types

The type of seats installed can significantly impact comfort, functionality, and style. With advancements in technology and design, automotive seating has come a long way, from basic benches to sophisticated and specialized options catering to drivers' and passengers' diverse needs and preferences.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the different seat types commonly used in cars, ranging from standard front seats to versatile bench seats, luxurious captain’s chairs, and the unique third-row folding seats found in some 7-seater vehicles.

Standard Front Seats

Standard front seats are the most common type of car seat in the front row. These seats are typically designed for the driver and front passenger, providing basic seating comfort and support. They usually come with manual or power adjustments for height, recline, and forward/backward positioning, allowing drivers and passengers to customize their seating position for optimal comfort during long drives. Standard front seats often feature adjustable headrests, lumbar support, and seat heaters or coolers for added convenience and luxury.

Mercedes-AMG EQS Front seats

Front Row Captain’s Seats

Front row captain’s seats are typically used in MPVs or vans where the driver can sit higher. These seats offer enhanced comfort and a commanding view of the road.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz Captain Seats in front

1+2 Bench in Front Seats

A 1+2 bench in the front seats consists of a single seat for the driver and a bench seat for two passengers positioned next to the driver’s seat. This seating configuration is common in commercial vehicles, such as delivery trucks or buses, where the driver may need to bring two coworkers while on the job. However, the passenger seats in a 1+2 bench may be narrower or less comfortable than other types of seats, and the configuration may limit legroom or overall space in the front of the car.

Mercedes eSprinter 1+2 front seat bench

Three-Seat Bench in Second Row

A three-seat second-row bench seat is a single, continuous bench that runs across the width of the vehicle’s interior, seating three people. This seat type is common in the second row for EVs and is often preferred by families for its ability to accommodate multiple passengers. Some second-row bench seats have a split-fold design, allowing one or both sides of the bench to fold independently for added flexibility in terms of cargo space and access to third-row seats.

Three-seat bench Hyundai EV5

Three-seat bench Mercedes EQS

Two-Seat Bench in Second Row

A two-seat bench in the second row offers seating for two passengers side-by-side, with a shared backrest and seat cushion. This configuration is often found in smaller vehicles or as an optional seating arrangement in larger vehicles. Two-seat benches may come with manual or power adjustments for reclining and can be folded down to create additional cargo space when not in use.

Taycan Turbo S Sport Turismo two-seat second-row bench

Executive Seat + Two-Seat Bench

An executive seat combined with a bench in the second row includes a combination of individual executive-style seats and a bench seat in the rear passenger area. This configuration is often found in luxury SUVs or sedans, providing a versatile and flexible seating option for passengers. Executive seats are typically high-quality individual seats with premium materials and advanced features, while the bench seat spans the vehicle’s width and can accommodate two passengers.

Executive seat and bench in BMW i7

Twin Executive Seats

Twin executive seats in the second row refer to a configuration where two individual seats are positioned side-by-side, typically in the rear passenger area. These seats are designed to provide enhanced comfort and luxury, often focusing on executive or VIP transportation. Twin executive seats are larger and more comfortable than regular rear passenger seats, offering additional legroom, headroom, and amenities for a premium travel experience.

Twin Executive Seats in Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV

Twin Executive Seats in Volvo EX90

Captain’s Seat in Second Row

Captain’s chairs, also known as captain’s seats, are popular seating options for the second row in many vehicles, especially in SUVs, minivans, and larger sedans. Captain’s chairs are individual seats that are usually larger and more comfortable than standard second-row benches, with armrests and additional padding. They often come with power adjustments and heating/cooling features.

Mercedes EQV Captain Chairs second row

Third-Row Folding Seats

Third-row seats are additional spaces located at the back of a car, behind the second row. They are found in larger vehicles such as SUVs, minivans, and crossovers with six or more seating places. Third-row seats typically fold down or can be removed to provide more cargo space when not in use. Some vehicles offer power-folding third-row seats for convenience. These seats are often designed for children or smaller adults, as the space can be limited.

Kia EV9 third-row seats

Kia EV9 third-row seats folded down

Third-Row Captain’s Chairs

Third-row captain’s chairs replace the standard bench seat in the third row with two individual seats. This configuration is often found in larger SUVs or minivans, providing additional seating and comfort for passengers in the third row. Third-row captain’s chairs can be particularly appealing to families with multiple children, as it allows each child to have their own space. However, they reduce the overall seating capacity of the vehicle and can limit the cargo space in the vehicle’s rear.

Mercedes EQV Captain Chairs second and third row

In the EVKX EV database, you can search for models with a specific seat type.

Continue to seat adjustment and features.

Most sold EVs globaly

Below, you find the top 10 most-sold EV models in the world. Click on the name for full info.