I have on order a new 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis (don't laugh).  One of things I like most about this car is the front seats.  This is one of the only cars left that has a steering column shifter and front bench seat.  I find this interior a lot more comfortable than any bucket seat car.  Do people not like this type of interior anymore?  

If it's any thing like the 08 Lincoln Towncars front seats; they might as well be buckets since there is less than 12 inches from the front of the middle seat and the dash. No one could sit there unless they are four years old.

I do like the seat. It could be a little more comfortable  if it was just a bit more firm. It's a bit mushy for my spine.  

Aside from the more "sporty" appearnce of buckets, I think it comes down to the bean counters. I'm sure if you looked at the costs (for a car), it's less to produce a pair of bucket seats than a single bench seat, including installation labor costs at the factory.

My family has had Ford Rangers for most of my life, and I drove one until I got my '92 Silverado. The 60/40 bench seats in the Ranger were pretty comfortable, and the 70/30 in my Chevy is comfy also. Trucks still have them because of their basic utilitarian purpose., and the middle seat is actually useable unlike a car.  

Had my Merc since March and LOVE it!  

bucket seats may not be as comfy but they look a lot better. Not much of a bench seat person but hey if thats what you like, the more power to you!