This is one way to keep the kid in line and not spoil her rotten. She'll get the privilege to sit up front when she's older...
I'm not bashing your parenting

it's just under my own observations when the parent goes way too far out of their way to let the kid have what he/she wants, the kid often ends up thinking "oh I can always have what I want" -- which can lead to social problems (a biggie in school).