Expecting a baby is exciting and slightly daunting too as you are bombarded with information on everything from sleeping, feeding, stimulating, and keeping your baby safe. It can be overwhelming and stressful trying to choose the best car seat for your baby, especially with so many options available on the market.

The infant car seat you will buy will need to keep your baby safe in the car from the day you leave the hospital until around 12-18 months of age. It is also in this period that your baby is the most vulnerable to injury if you were to be in an accident. Therefore, the infant seat you buy needs to be comfortable, supportive, and most importantly, SAFE.

In this article, we will give you all the facts so that you can make an informed decision to ensure that you get the safest infant seat that will work the best with your budget, lifestyle, and vehicle. We have also written individual, more comprehensive reviews on all our infant car seats, which are linked in this article. 

WHAT ARE THE SAFEST CAR SEATS FOR infants ?

The typical response in answering this question is “the safest car seat is whichever car seat fits your car and your baby the best”. While this is definitely true, there is much more to consider when deciding which car seat is best for your new baby. These are the factors to consider:  

1. YOUR BUDGET: HOW MUCH ARE YOU ABLE TO SPEND?

Unfortunately the safest seats are usually expensive, although expensive does not always mean safest! Before you start looking for a car seat, decide what is a realistic budget that your family can afford. 

You also need to consider whether you want a travel system; where the infant seat comes with a pram and can be clicked on and off of that pram. At Precious Cargo, you can get travel system package deals that work out cheaper than buying the infant seat, pram, isofix base, and bassinet separately. 

 We do offer credit via Mobicred.

2. YOUR CAR: DOES IT INSTALL SECURELY?

You’ll need to check which installation options your car has; isofix and/or full 3-point seatbelts. You’ll also need to check if your car has underfloor storage compartments, as this can be problematic for car seats with support legs. Once you have narrowed your options down, you will need to check if your car is on the car seat’s approved fit list to determine if it is compatible. 

Most infant seats can be installed with a seatbelt OR with an isofix base. This makes them quite universal in terms of which cars they will fit into safely.

Please note that not all cars available in SA are listed in the European fit lists, so please contact us if you have any queries.

3. YOUR NEWBORN BABY: WILL YOUR BABY BE PREMATURE OR SMALLER THAN AVERAGE?

All infant seats have a minimum height requirement. Some infant seats can be used from 40cm and some can be used from 45cm. 

If you suspect that your baby may be smaller than average or premature, or if you are having multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) then an infant seat that can be used from 40cm will be the best option.

4. WHAT ABOUT A MULTISTAGE CAR SEAT (FROM BIRTH TO 12 YEARS)?

Although multistage car seats seem like a great long term solution for your baby and they are advertised as being suitable from birth; they are often not suitable or safest for newborn babies. 

Multistage seats often do not give newborn babies sufficient postural support and head support, nor do they recline enough for newborns. All of this can lead to your baby's head falling forward which can lead to positional asphyxiation (blocking off the airway). 

Another issue with newborns in multistage seats is that you cannot get a safe and secure harness fit on them. The harness is often too high and the harness pads too big. If the harness cannot be sufficiently tightened, it can lead to increased risk of injury or ejection in a crash. 

Additionally, the majority of multistage seats that have been independently crash tested have not scored well for safety.

There are only four convertible car seats, that are approved from birth to 4-7 years depending on the model, that we recommend as they have appropriate support for newborns and they have been independently crash tested by ADAC and/or they have been Swedish Plus tested. These seats are the BeSafe iZi Twist/Turn B, BeSafe Stretch B, the Axkid One+, and The Maxi Cosi Mica Pro Eco.

5. THE SAFETY RATINGS

Car seats that are sold on the South African market are imported from Europe and Asia. The seats that are sold legally, will have an orange sticker on the seat to show its ECE number to prove that it has passed the mandatory European ECE R44/04 or R129 crash testing. These results are not published, and the public are not able to find out how the seats performed in the crash tests.

In order to obtain an ECE certificate, a car seat must pass a frontal collision test at a speed of 50km/h for ECE R44/04 testing or 55km/hour for R129 testing, and pass a rear impact collision test at 30km/hr. R129 testing also includes a 25km/hour side impact test.

In reality, we travel much faster speeds on our roads, with the speed limit in most urban areas being 60km or more. 

Some European car seats are selected for additional, independent crash testing that is done at higher speeds and the test criteria are more stringent. Unfortunately, rebranded seats that are not sold in Europe will not undergo additional testing:

a) ADAC

One of the most well-known independent crash-testing is done by the ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club). ADAC is an automobile club in Germany that selects car seats for independent crash testing. Car seat manufacturers do not pay for the testing nor do they volunteer for the testing. 

These test results are then bought by other consumer companies and re-published to the public depending on what country you are in. For example in the UK, ‘WHICH?’ consumer magazine publishes these tests, in Norway, ‘Forbrukerrådet’ publish the results etc. 

ADAC scores rated on a scale of between 1 to 5. A lower score indicates a better rating.

ADAC ASSESSES CAR SEAT ON 5 POINTS:

1.  SAFETY -  Frontal impacts at 64km/h and side impacts at 50km/h are performed with a four-door vehicle body shell mounted to a test sledge. Impact loads are measured on differently sized child dummies. Belt routing, size adjustment, seat stability and head support are assessed subjectively.
2. SERVICE/USABILITY -  A child seat is installed in a car for test purposes with the aim of identifying the misuse potential. Testing includes ease of buckling up and unstrapping the child/dummy, installation, removal and adaptation of the seat and a check of the instruction manual.
3. POLLUTANTS - They test the seat for harmful chemicals and/or pollutants
4. COMFORT - During the test installation of the seat, ADAC assesses the leg support, upholstery or uncovered parts and the child’s field of vision.
5. PROCESSING/USE - Several testers check seat cleaning and assess workmanship.

b) SWEDISH PLUS TEST

The Swedish Plus Test is conducted at the Road Safety Institute in Linköping University, Sweden, by VTI. Car seat manufacturers volunteer to have their car seats undergo the stringent testing conducted by Swedish Plus Test.

It involves a frontal crash test conducted at 56.km/hour. The head-on crash test has a very short and hard braking distance, which makes the impact much more severe than in other crash test scenarios. It is the only test in the world that measures the force load upon the child’s neck in a frontal collision. This is why forward facing car seats have, to date, never passed the Swedish Plus Test. The crash forces to the neck are too high when forward facing and can cause severe or even fatal injuries to a child in real life accidents.

Sweden prides itself for having the lowest child mortality rate in the world. This is not surprising as they keep their children rear facing for approximately 5-7 years.

It is important to note that the majority of infant seats have not been Swedish Plus Tested as they focus mainly on Toddler rear facing seats. However, the Besafe iZi Twist B, iZi Turn B, and the BeSafe Stretch B mentioned above have been Swedish Plus Tested. 

All the car seats below have been independently crash tested and get the highest safety ratings. Read our blog explaining the mandatory vs independent crash testing.

REVIEWING THE highest SAFETY RATED infant CAR SEATS:

We have compiled a list of our best infant car seats available in South Africa, reviewing each seat and why it has made our top 13 list. The list below is in alphabetical order, and not in order of safety ratings. The car seats that pass the Swedish Plus Test are considered to be some of the safest car seats in the world. 

1) AXKID ONE+

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF ONE+

The Axkid ONE+ is the only rear-facing ISOFIX seat on the market that is both iSize approved and approved from birth (40cm) up to 125 cm or approx 7 years of age. It is the longest lasting convertible car seat available in South Africa.

HOW AXKID ONE+ IS INSTALLED

Axkid One+ is THE only isofix installed car seat that can be used rear facing from birth until 23kg/125cm. All other 25kg rear facing seats are installed with seatbelt and lower tether straps, which are more cumbersome to install. The One+ is very lightweight and simple to install. It takes no more than 30 seconds to install. It cannot be installed in cars without isofix. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF AXKID ONE+

Axkid One+ is built with a new and innovative design that uses aluminum and hardened steel to form a lightweight safety frame that acts like a protective cocoon. The seat itself is built in shock-absorbing materials to minimize crash-forces upon impact. 

The whole seat weighs less than 10 kg allowing older and heavier children to travel rearward all the way up to 7 years of age. 

One+ has the innovative Axkid Side Impact Protection (ASIP) which is built to deform and absorb the crash energy before it reaches your child. ASIP should always be used on the side of the seat facing towards the door. 

One+ was tested by ADAC (with a high score) and it passes the Swedish Plus Test, and was awarded "best total score for an extended rear facing car seat ever tested". 

COMFORT FEATURES OF AXKID ONE+

The Axkid ONE+ is mounted on rails allowing the seat to be quickly and easily adjusted back and forth with just one hand, giving up to 30cm of legroom to your child. This allows it to fit into small and large cars. 

Axkid ONE+ comes equipped with the Sleepwell System allowing the seat angle to be adjusted all the way to 42 degrees. This means that Axkid ONE+ can be tilted to act as an infant carrier with the ONE+ cushion the first months and as your child gets older it can easily be adjusted to more upright positions. 

Ventilation holes were added in the seat to keep your child cool during the hot summer months.

For older children the safety frame can act as a handle so they easily can climb in and out themselves, without damaging the car seat. 

CAN THE AXKID ONE+ BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

No, the Axkid ONE+  cannot be clicked onto a pram. 

2) BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X1/X2

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X1/X2

The BeSafe iZi Go Modular X1/X2 is approved from 40cm to 75cm/13kg. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X1 INSTALLED?

The iZi Go Modular X1/X2 can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the BeSafe iZi Modular Isofix base. 

The isofix base can only be used in cars with isofix points. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X1/X2

The iZi Go Modular X1/X2 has been built with Dynamic Force Absorption in the upper shell of the seat for ultimate head protection.

Unlike other infant seats; the iZi Go Modular X1/X2 has a 5-point harness which distributes crash forces more evenly across the baby's body as well as adds stability in the case of a side collision.

In addition, it has side impact protection ( SIP+) offering the highest possible protection in the event of a side impact collision.

This additional protection reduces load on the child by up to 20%. The anti-rebound brace reduces the rebound forces and the load leg reduces downward rotation forces in a collision.

In crash testing, the seat displayed a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a side impact collision with and without the isofix base.

Unfortunately on the X1 version, ADAC had to give the seat an overall score of 5.5 (inadequate) due to pollutants found in the airbag warning label on the side of the seat.

BeSafe released a statement on this finding which can be read here.

The X2 version has been tested and had a very low pollutant score.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI GO MODULAR X1/X2

The BeSafe iZi Go Modular X1/X2 is well padded and comes with a Soft Newborn Hugger™ with a cleverly placed wedge for stability, support and an optimized recline angle for newborns. The wedge comes out at 60cm and the cushion comes out at 65cm.

The headrest and harness can be adjusted simultaneously by raising the lever on the back of the seat. 

It has an independent sun canopy that is SPF 50+ and it extends sufficiently for ultimate sun protection. 

Additionally, the harness pads have magnets in them that keeps the harness out of the way when putting your child into the seat.

The iZi Modular isofix base is also compatible with the BeSafe iZi Modular X1 Toddler seat. Therefore, you will use the isofix base for around 4 years.  

CAN THE IZI GO MODULAR X1/X2 BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

Yes, The iZi Go Modular X1 and X2 are compatible with Stokke, Qtus, Thule, BabyZen Yoyo, TFK, and a few other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

3) BESAFE IZI TWIST/TURN B

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE IZI TWIST B AND THE IZI TURN B?

The iZi Twist B is rearfacing only. It scored very well for safety. The iZi Turn B is the EXACT same seat as the iZi Twist B, the only difference is that the iZi Turn B can forward face from 88cm. It has not been independently crash tested in forward facing. Therefore the safety ratings only apply when used rearfacing. 

The iZi Twist B is no longer being brought in by the South African supplier. Therefore, the iZi Turn B will only be available to purchase. 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B?

The BeSafe iZi Turn B is one of three "multistage" seats that are actually suitable and safe for newborns. The letter "B" in the name stands for birth. It is iSize approved from 40cm-105cm/18kg in rear facing or 88-105cm in forward facing. This usually lasts average-sized children from birth until they are 4 years old. 

HOW IS THE BESAFE IZI TURN B INSTALLED?

The iZi Turn B can only be installed with isofix. Therefore requires the car to have isofix brackets. It cannot be installed with seatbelt. The seat cannot be removed from its base.

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B

The iZi Turn B comes with a removeable Baby Shell. This ensures proper protection from birth. The Baby Shell acts as a protective barrier for small babies carrier until 87cm.

The iZi Turn B cannot be used forward facing while the baby shell is still in. This ensures that parents do not forward face their child too soon. 

The Side Impact Protection (SIP+) placed on the side towards the car door, increases the safety of the child if a side impact should happen. The anti-rebound brace reduces the rebound forces and the load leg reduces downward rotation forces in a collision.

The iZi Twist B has also passed the World's most stringent crash test; The Swedish Plus Test.

The seat has not been independently crash tested in forward facing mode. Therefore, we recommend using the seat rearfacing until 105cm/18kg.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE IZI TURN B

The iZi Turn B can rotate, using one hand, towards the door which makes it easier to get your baby into and out of the car seat. While using the Baby Shell it can rotate 180 degrees. Once the Baby Shell is out it can rotate a full 360 degrees. 

The BeSafe iZi Turn B has 4 recline positions. The most reclined position must be used while the Baby Shell is still being used for optimal comfort and safety.

The BeSafe iZi Turn B has a one-of-a-kind built in spirit level that ensures the seat is at the perfect recline in every car. This is really useful in cars with slanted back seats. This will prevent your baby's head from flopping forward when they sleep.

The headrest has 10 adjustable height settings, to accommodate your growing child. It is very easy to adjust the harness and headrest simultaneously.

All BeSafe car seats have magnets in the harness in order to keep it out the way while putting your child in. It also has ventilation holes in the backrest, to keep your child cool.

CAN THE IZI TURN B BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?

No, the BeSafe iZi Turn B stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto a pram. The iZi Transfer can be purchased to make it easier to transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the pram.

4) BESAFE STRETCH B

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B? 

The BeSafe Stretch B is the only 36kg seat on the market that is actually suitable and safe for newborns. The letter "B" in the name stands for birth. It is iSize approved from 40cm-125cm/36kg. It is rearfacing only.

This usually lasts average-sized children from birth until they are 7 years old.  This is currently the longest lasting extended rearfacing seat on the market.

HOW IS THE BESAFE STRETCH B INSTALLED? 

The Stretch B is installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt and lower tether anchors. This makes it a very universal seat where it can fit in any car with a 3-point seat belt. It does not require isofix for installation.

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B

The Stretch B comes with a removeable Baby Shell. This ensures proper protection and support from birth. The Baby Shell acts as a protective barrier for small babies until 87cm.

The Stretch B can only be used rearfacing and this is why it performed so incredibly well in crash testing because rearfacing is 500% safer than forward facing. 

The Side Impact Protection (SIP+) placed on the side towards the car door, increases the safety of the child if a side impact should happen. The anti-rebound brace and the lower tether anchors reduce the rebound forces and the load leg and the seatbelt reduce downward rotation forces in a collision.

The load leg has audio-visual indicators that tell you if your have installed it correctly. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE BESAFE STRETCH B

The Stretch B is well padded all around and includes a removeable shell for younger babies as well as removeable padded inserts for older babies. 

It has 5 deep recline positions which can be adjusted while on the go. The Stretch B can be installed with up to 26cm of legroom to ensure your child is as comfortable as possible right up to the age of approx. 7 years old. 

The headrest has 10 adjustable height settings, to accommodate your growing child. It is very easy to adjust the harness and headrest simultaneously. 

All BeSafe car seats have magnets in the harness in order to keep it out the way while putting your child in. It also has ventilation holes in the backrest, to keep your child cool. If you would like more airflow and ventilation- the seat is also available in a mesh variant. 

To help with installation- the Stretch B has self-tensioning tethers as well as a seatbelt tensioner at the back of the seat. 

CAN THE STRETCH B BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

No, the BeSafe Stretch B stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto a pram. The iZi Transfer can be purchased to make it easier to transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat to the pram.

Read our comprehensive review here

5) CHELINO TULIP (COSATTO ACORN)

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE COSATTO ACORN (Rebranded Chelino Tulip)

The Chelino Tulip (Cosatto Acorn) is i-size approved from 40cm to 87cm/13kg. This is from birth until approximately 18 months old for average sized babies.  

HOW IS THE COSATTO ACORN (Rebranded Chelino Tulip) INSTALLED?  

The Chelino Tulip can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Chelino Tulip isofix base.  The Chelino Tulip isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors.  The Chelino Tulip isofix base is not compatible with any toddler seat.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE COSATTO ACORN (Rebranded Chelino Tulip)

The Chelino Tulip is the Cosatto Acorn which has been rebranded by Chelino. All safety ratings from the Cosatto Acorn apply to the Chelino Tulip.

The Tulip has impact and protection at the core of its design. The i-Size standard takes testing further with side impact and roll over testing, all using the latest crash test dummies, to help create safer car seats. 

The seat has a reinforced construction with a strong protective shell to encase your child. The seat has been created using the ultimate high-performance, energy-absorbing materials, offering maximum protection for your baby. 

The Cosatto Acorn was tested by ADAC with and without the isofix base.

When used without the isofix base and installed with the seatbelt, it scores 1.4 for safety which is considered "very good". When used with the seatbelt it displayed a very low risk of injury in both a frontal and side collision.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE COSATTO ACORN (Rebranded Chelino Tulip)

The Cosatto Acorn contains an easy one-handed harness and headrest adjust which allows you to position and adjust simultaneously to suit your child’s needs. This seat cocoons your newborn baby with the soft, removable infant inlay which gets removed when your baby is approx 75cm.

The Cosatto Acorn comes with a UPF 100+ extendable canopy to protect your baby from the sun. It also has easily removable, machine washable covers which offer continual comfort.

The Acorn uses fabric made from 13 recycled plastic bottles. Creating this comfy fabric is part of Cosatto’s commitment to being as eco-conscious as possible.

CAN THE COSATTO ACORN (Rebranded Chelino Tulip) BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?  

Yes, The Cosatto Acorn is compatible with strollers from Cybex,  Thule,  BabyZen YOYO, Qtus, TFK, Stokke, and Chelino. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram.

6) CYBEX ATON B2

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE CYBEX ATON B2

The Cybex Aton B2 is i-size approved from 45cm to 87cm/13kg. This is from birth until approximately 18 months old for average sized babies. 

HOW IS THE CYBEX ATON B2 INSTALLED? 

The Cybex Aton B2 can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Cybex Base One isofix base.  The Cybex Base One isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors.  The Cybex Base One is not compatible with any toddler seat. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE CYBEX ATON B2 

The Aton B2 has been built with an energy absorbing shell for ultimate protection. The infant insert contains firm side support cushions to keep baby upright and to protect the baby's internal organs in a collision.

The Atone B2 contains Linear Side Protection on both sides of the seat. This reduces the force of impact in a side collision by 25%. 

If you are using the isofix base with the seat, the isofix base will show you if your installation is correct by means of visual indicators.

When used without the isofix base and installed with the seatbelt, it scores 1.7 for safety which is also considered "good". In both cases it displayed a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a low risk of injury in a side collision. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE CYBEX ATON B2 

The Aton B2 comes with a removeable infant insert that ensures a near-flat lying position for premature and newborn babies. This ensures their airway stays open when they don't have head control. This insert gets removed at 61cm. 

The headrest and harness can be raised simultaneously as your baby grows by simply pulling the lever at the top of the head rest. 

The Aton B2 contains a full coverage sun canopy that is SPF50 for sun protection. 

CAN THE CYBEX ATON B2 BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

Yes, The Aton B2 is compatible with Cybex, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Qtus, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

7) CYBEX CLOUD T (Previously known as Cloud z2)

WEIGHT LIMITS OF THE CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cybex Cloud T is approved from 45cm to 87cm/13kg. This lasts the average sized baby from birth until approximately 18 months of age.

HOW IS THE CLOUD T INSTALLED?

The Cybex Cloud T can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Cybex Base T isofix base.  

The rotation function and recline function can only be used when using the Base T isofix base. The isofix base can only be used in vehicles with isofix anchors. 

The Base T isofix base is also compatible with the Cybex Sirona T toddler seat (also compatible with older versions- Sirona Z/Z2).

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cloud T has been built with an energy absorbing shell as well as Linear Side Protection which ensures ultimate safety in a side collision.

The Linear Side Protection needs to be flicked out on the side closest to the vehicle door. This reduces the force of impact by 25% in a side collision.

The infant insert contains firm side support cushions to keep baby upright and to protect the baby's internal organs in a collision.

The base boasts audiovisual indicators to ensure correct installation. The rigid support leg distributes forces safely to the vehicle floor. 

When installed with the Base T isofix base, the Cloud T has a safety rating of 1.3 which is "very good" with a very low risk of injury in a frontal collision and a very low risk of injury in a side collision.

COMFORT FEATURES OF CYBEX CLOUD T

The Cloud T can be rotated towards the door which makes it easier to get your baby into and out of the car. The rotation can be done with one hand. 

The Cloud T comes with a removeable infant insert that ensures a near-flat lying position for premature and newborn babies. This ensures their airway stays open when they don't have head control. This insert gets removed at 61cm. 

The headrest and harness can be raised simultaneously as your baby grows by simply pulling the lever at the top of the head rest. There are 11 harness and headrest heights. 

Cloud T contains a full coverage sun canopy that is SPF 50 for sun protection.

The Cloud T backrest has 3 recline positions. When inside the car; the Cloud T backrest can be used in the first position or reclined to the second recline position to create a flatter lying position for baby and outside the car it can be used in any of the 3 recline positions. Being flatter on their backs is a much safer position for babies to be in when using it outside the car or on the pram.

CAN THE CYBEX CYBEX CLOUD T BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM? 

Yes, The Cloud T is compatible with Cybex, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Qtus, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

8) MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size is approve from 40cm until 75cm/12kg. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby.

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE INSTALLED?

The Maxi Cosi Cabriofix i-size can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt. Alternatively, it can be installed with the Maxi Cosi Cabriofix i-size isofix base (tested by ADAC) or the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix3 isofix base (Not tested by ADAC).

Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to use either of the isofix bases. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size has  Side Impact Protection for additional protection and improved impact-absorbing material, which absorbs even more force from an impact, in case of an accident. 

If installed with either one of the isofix bases, audiovisual indicators on the isofix base will ensure correct and safe installation.

The Cabriofix i-size was tested by ADAC with the vehicle seat belt and with the Cabriofix i-size isofix base. 

When installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt; the Cabriofix recieved a score of 1.3 for safety which is "very good" with a very low risk of injury in both a frontal and side collision. 

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE

The Cabriofix i-size is a very good option for small or premature babies due to the angle of the back rest and the narrow shell which provides postural support. The buckle if also placed deeper into the seat which eliminates the likeliness of the baby slumping over or having a gap between the baby's nappy and the buckle

It comes with a removeable newborn inlay that keeps the head of your baby safe and comfortable. This needs to be removed at 61cm. 

Unlike other Maxi Cosi infant seats, the Cabriofix i-size has an independent sun canopy.

The Cabriofix i-size is currently the lightest infant car seat on the market weighing in at only 3.2kgs.

CAN THE MAXI COSI CABRIOFIX I-SIZE BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?  

Yes, The Cabriofix i-size is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, BabyZen YOYO, Qtus, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands. You will need the appropriate adapters to click the seat onto the pram. 

9) MAXI COSI JADE CARRYCOT 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI JADE

The Maxi Cosi Jade is a lay flat, safe, travel carrycot option for newborns. The Maxi Cosi Jade is approved from 40cm (birth) until 70cm/9kgs which is around 6 months old.

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI JADE INSTALLED?

The Maxi Cosi Jade can only be installed with the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix3 isofix base. 

The Jade cannot be installed with a seatbelt. Therefore, your car needs to have isofix anchors to use the Jade.

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE JADE

The Maxi-Cosi Jade is the first safety carrycot to comply with the highest safety standard (R129) to travel with a baby in the car.

Newborns shouldn’t travel in an upright position for more than two hours straight, and they should sleep as much as possible in the best position—flat on their back. Therefore, the Jade is safest for newborns who are in the car for longer than average.

The Jade offers side, neck and head protection to your newborn baby by using automotive shock-absorbing materials for optimal impact protection.

The Jade is equipped with a 3-point harness for ultimate safety.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI JADE

The Maxi Cosi Jade is the only high scoring, carry cot option that can be used in the car. This ensures your baby is lying flat when travelling which is not only safer for them but more comfortable for them. This eliminates the risk of their head flopping forward, which could happen in a regular infant seat, which could lead to positional asphyxiation. 

The Jade has a comfortable and protective newborn inlay which provides newborns with a comfortable and safe lying position. This inlay also gives babies support to ensure they stay in the correct position while in the Jade. 

The Jade also has a soft mattress for comfort and a large sun canopy for protection from the sun. 

The FamilyFix3 is also compatible with the Pebble Pro and Coral infant seats, and the Pearl Pro 2 toddler seat. Therefore, you will be able to use the FamilyFix3 isofix base for around 4 years. 

CAN THE MAXI COSI JADE BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?    

Yes, The Jade is compatible with selected Maxi Cosi Strollers: 

Maxi Cosi Lila
Maxi Cosi Lila CP
Maxi Cosi Adorra2
Maxi Cosi Leona

10) THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO? 

The Mica Pro Eco is an iSize approved car seat from 40 to 105cm/18kg in rear facing or 84cm to 105cm in forward facing. We recommend rearfacing until the seat is outgrown. This usually lasts average-sized children until they are approximately 4 years old.  

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO INSTALLED? 

The Mica Pro Eco can only be installed in cars that have isofix brackets. It has a built-in isofix base so it does not separate from the seat and you don't need to buy a separate isofix base. It cannot be installed with seatbelt. The support leg cannot be installed on top of an underfloor storage compartment.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO

The Mica Pro Eco has been built with G-CELL 2.0 Side Impact Protection which adds an extra built-in guard and provides maximum protection with improved 3D impact absorption from multiple angles as well as a headrest with protective memory foam for extra safety. 

The integrated isofix base has visual indicators to ensure you install the seat correctly and the seat has an "anti-misuse" button that prevents forward facing before your child is 15 months old.  

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO

The Mica Pro Eco provides optimal ease of use and comfort, due to the easy-in harness which has springs in the harness so that it is easy to strap your child in as well as the ability to rotate towards the door for ease of getting your child in and out of the seat. 

The seat can be rotated on any recline and can be done with one hand. The Mica Pro Eco comes with a Baby-hugg inlay which makes it suitable from birth. It has multiple recline angles for optimal comfort. 

The Mica Pro Eco has been designed with ClimaFlow panels and breathable fabrics for optimal air circulation to keep your child at a comfortable temperature.   

The Mica Pro Eco is the first sustainably made seat manufactured from 100% recyclable materials making it eco friendly.

CAN THE MAXI COSI MICA PRO ECO BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?  

No, The Maxi Cosi Mica Pro Eco stays in the vehicle and cannot be clicked onto any pram.

11) MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360

The Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 is i-size approved from 40cm until 83cm/13kgs. This is from birth until approximately 15 months old for the average sized baby.

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 INSTALLED

The Pebble 360 can be installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt, or with the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix360 isofix base. 

The swivel/rotation feature can only be used when the Pebble 360 is installed with the FamilyFix 360 isofix base. 

Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to install the seat with the FamilyFix 360 isofix base. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360

The Pebble 360 has been built with innovative G-CELL Side Impact Technology, as an extra-protective built-in guard for side collisions.

When used with the FamilyFix 360 isofix base, the isofix base with show you if your installation is correct by means of visual indicators that turn from red to green. 

ADAC tested the Pebble 360 with seatbelt and with the FamilyFix 360 isofix base.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360

When the Pebble 360 is installed with the FamilyFix 360 isofix base; the seat can be rotated towards the door for ease of getting your baby into and out of the car. The Pebble 360 can be rotated with one hand.

The Pebble 360 has a easy-in harness which springs open to make it easier when strapping your baby into the seat. 

The Pebble 360 has been built with special ClimaFlow panels, breathable foam and fabrics which encourage air circulation to ensure your child is always at the right temperature.

The Pebble 360 comes with a baby-hugg inlay for newborns which adds postural support and comfort for babies under 60cm. The harness and head rest can be adjusted easily for your growing baby by lifting the tab on top of the head rest. 

Additionally, the Pebble 360 has a large independent sun canopy.  

The FamilyFix 360 isofix base is also compatible with the Pearl 360 toddler seat. Therefore, you can use the FamilyFix 360 isofix base for approximately 4 years.

CAN THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?     

Yes, The Pebble 360 is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, Qtus, BabyZen YoYo, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands with the appropriate adapters. 

12) MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO (SLIDETECH) 

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO

The Maxi Cosi Pebble 360 Pro is i-size approved from 40cm until 87cm/13kgs. This is from birth until approximately 18 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW IS THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO INSTALLED 

The Pebble 360 Pro can be installed with the vehicle's 3-point seatbelt, or with the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix360 Pro isofix base.  The swivel/rotation feature can only be used when the Pebble 360 Pro is installed with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base. Your vehicle needs to have isofix anchors in order to install the seat with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base.  

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO

The Pebble 360 Pro has been built with innovative G-CELL Side Impact Technology, as an extra-protective built-in guard for side collisions. When used with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base, the isofix base will show you if your installation is correct by means of visual indicators that turn from red to green.  

ADAC tested the Pebble 360 Pro with seatbelt and with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base.

Unfortunately, the overall score was marked down by ADAC due to a higher pollutant load found in the cover of the seat. Maxi Cosi has confirmed that they did additional testing and could not find match the results found by ADAC.

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO

When the Pebble 360 Pro is installed with the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base; the seat can be rotated towards the door and it can slide out the door with the Slidetech for ease of getting your baby into and out of the car. The Pebble 360 Pro can be rotated and slid towards the door with one hand. The Pebble 360 Pro is equipped with 3 recline settings. All 3 settings can be used in the car (with and without the isofix base) and out of the car on the pram or floor.

The Pebble 360 Pro has a easy-in harness which springs open to make it easier when strapping your baby into the seat.  The Pebble 360 Pro has been built with special ClimaFlow panels, breathable foam and fabrics which encourage air circulation to ensure your child is always at the right temperature. 

The Pebble 360 Pro comes with a baby-hugg inlay for newborns which adds postural support and comfort for babies under 60cm. The harness and head rest can be adjusted easily for your growing baby by lifting the tab on top of the head rest.  Additionally, the Pebble 360 Pro has a large independent sun canopy.   

The FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base is also compatible with the Pearl 360 Pro toddler seat. Therefore, you can use the FamilyFix 360 Pro isofix base for approximately 4 years. 

CAN THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE 360 PRO BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?      

Yes, The Pebble 360 Pro is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, Qtus, BabyZen YoYo, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands with the appropriate adapters. 

13) MAXI COSI PEBBLE PRO

WEIGHT AND HEIGHT LIMITS OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE PRO

The Maxi Cosi Pebble Pro is i-size approved from 45cm to 75cm/12kgs. This is from birth until approximately 12 months old for the average sized baby. 

HOW IS THE PEBBLE PRO INSTALLED?

The Maxi Cosi Pebble Pro can be installed with the vehicles 3-point seatbelt or with the Maxi Cosi FamilyFix3 isofix base. 

The FamilyFix3 isofix base can only be installed in vehicles with isofix anchors. 

SAFETY FEATURES OF THE PEBBLE PRO

The Pebble Pro has memory foam built into the side wings of the seat for side impact protection. It also has air pockets in the upper part of the shell for head protection. 

The Pebble Pro comes with a baby-hugg inlay which adds support but also acts as a protective side barrier to newborn internal organs. 

When installed with the FamilyFix3 isofix base, the base will show you if your installation is correct by means of audio-visual indicators which will beep and/or turn red if something is incorrect.

ADAC tested the Pebble Pro with the vehicle seatbelt and with the Family Fix3 isofix base (then known as the 3wayfix).

COMFORT FEATURES OF THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE PRO

The Pebble Pro Is padded all round for comfort. It comes with a baby-hugg inlay for newborns which provides a better fit for more comfort and safety. The inlay contains a separate head pillow which provides even more comfort for baby's head. The inlay also creates a safe angle for newborns so their head doesn't flop forward.

It has an easy-in harness which springs open for ease of getting baby in and out of the seat. It also has a unique harness system which allows you to loosed the harness when it is not buckled in but then locks and only allows you to tighten the harness when it is buckled in. 

The Pebble Pro has an integrated sun canopy that can only be used when the Carry handle is in the upright position. Additionally, the harness can be adjusted easily at the back of the seat to accommodate your growing baby.

The FamilyFix3 isofix base is also compatible with the Maxi Cosi Pearl Pro 2 or Pearl Smart toddler seats. Therefore, the FamilyFix3 isofix base will last you approximately 4 years.

CAN THE MAXI COSI PEBBLE PRO BE USED AS PART OF A TRAVEL SYSTEM?     

Yes, The Pebble Pro is compatible with Maxi Cosi, Thule, Qtus, BabyZen YoYo, TFK, Stokke, and other stroller brands with the appropriate adapters. 

Please click on the images below to view the highest safety rated infant car seats that we sell. Feel free to contact us if you require any further information or would like to book a consultation.