Honestly almost gave this a 4-star only bc it is VERY hard & not forgiving cushion. But I could tell by pics b4 buying that it was this way, so that’s not very fair I don’t think (since I assumed this already). Impulse buy during Memorial Day sale & at my home we can Always use a new couch. My 12 yr old always sleeps on couch so I wanted something better than a futon. As we already (reluctantly) have one & this does seem like it will hold up longer than futon. The gap in the middle is not noticeable on mine, like in stock pic. Easy to clean (my selling point) it doesn’t stain. Perfect for an ‘extra’ sofa if you don’t mind ppl sitting on stiff cushion. As for the back panel that sticks out (so it can lay down). It’s not that noticeable as I bought a large cotton throw to hang over, viola! Maybe stiffness will get better in time. It’s only been 6 weeks