ORIGINAL: Paladin06
It's to prevent passengers from entering or exiting the car on side where there is most often traffic.
That may be what the powers-that-be SAY... but yes I concur with the cheapness assessment. And I also think it could be a safety hindrance as well, like RoswellGrey mentioned.
I don't normally carry rear seat passengers, but for example just the other day I went to the grocery store to pick up a few items, and with my other 2-door cars I would always fold the driver's seat forward and put the items in the back... something I can't do with this car. Not a major issue mind you... but a damned nuisance nonetheless.