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The previous owner probably added the leather seats. I purchased a 2001 XLT new. I almost went to a Lariat because leather was not available from the factory on the XLT.
However, leather upholstery is very available in the aftermarket. In fact, I recently bought a set at closeout, which I intend to install since my cloth seats are beginning to show some wear (127,000 miles). I got a full set, but maybe the previous owner didn't feel the need to spend the extra money.