Carmakers Widen Seats to Fit American Passengers

Washington DC December 28, 2005; The AIADA newsletter reported that more and more automakers are catering to a growing American driving class, adding space to vehicle interiors and widening seats, reports USA Today.

Automakers jumping on the wider-seat bandwagon include: Toyota, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Subaru and Mitsubishi, who each have introduced new models that cater to wider passengers.

Toyota added a half-inch to the front seats of its RAV4 SUV and up to 3 inches to the 4Runner, Sienna, Tacoma and Avalon.

Honda’s 2006 Civic includes front seats that are three-quarters of an inch wider than the seats in the 2005 model.

Mercedes’ new R-Class Grand Sports Tourer has front seats nearly a half-inch wider than those in the Mercedes M-Class crossover.

Subaru’s new B9 Tribeca crossover has increased the width of its front seats by a half-inch compared to those found in the Legacy wagon.

And as Mitsubishi adapted its Lancer Evolution from Japan for the U.S. market, the front seats were increased in width.

*Fat Ass