Cybex manufacturer’s claim that the car seat’s innovative, full-body airbag technology offers up to 50% higher safety levels when compared to a general forward facing car seat with a harness. Should the airbag deflate, it’s designed to form a C-shape around the safety shield to stop your child from moving forward, plus it lessens any pressure on the tummy area, and prevents your child from being thrown left or right. The armrests, deep seat padding, wide seat and side impact protection features are not only comfortable but help to secure your child and keep them safe while in the car. Design-wise, this car seat is light, sleek and practical for any compatible car, and we like the reversible covers to keep your small passenger happy and your car completely stain-free. Laura Westerman is an editor, writer, Deputy Head of Editorial Content at Mumsnet and mum to a one-year-old. With a passion for car seat safety, she has created trusted car seat buying advice for the last five years, working with experts and testers to bring parents the most up-to-date car seat guidance and product recommendations. As part of our research, we also reviewed independent crash test results conducted by ADAC, a prominent car seat tester in Europe, known and respected across the industry for its rigorous safety criteria. Everything about this sturdy seat is simple, whether that’s installing the seat in your car with or without the ISOFIX connectors (there are handy indicators to help you guide the seat belt through correctly), adjusting the ergonomic headrest or removing, washing and replacing the covers. It’s really comfortable too and offers plenty of legroom, which is crucial considering how long you'd need the seat to last.

The best car seats for safety and comfort in 2023 | Expert The best car seats for safety and comfort in 2023 | Expert

Prices vary considerably and it’s worth looking into exactly what higher-priced seats are offering before spending any money as the most expensive seats aren’t necessarily the best. As the only forward-facing car seat ever tested by ADAC to receive a safety score categorised as 'Very good,' there's no doubt that the Cybex Anoris T i-Size has earned its award title as the best child car seat for long journeys, especially when it comes to offering protection from all angles whilst driving. While only suitable up to age six, this car seat's excellent safety credentials made it too good not to include in our round-up. Another great safety feature is the support leg, which can be extended using a discreet grey button located on its rear, and it serves to provide added stability and support to the Axkid ONE 2. i-Size (R129) – conforming to the R129 regulation, i-Size car seats for this age group can be used from 100 to 135cm (or from 135cm to 150cm in specific cars) Passing one of the world’s toughest crash tests, the Swedish Plus Test, the Axkid ONE 2 excels when it comes to safety - which is the most important thing, even though it’s not the sleekest or most stylish child car seat on the market.Thanks to the car seat’s Guard Surround Safety features, the Joie Traver has received a ‘Good’ rating of four stars in tests conducted by ADAC, ÖAMTC and TCS. The sturdy side impact panels on the outer shell offer an extra layer of cushioning and protection for your child’s head, body and hips. Although the headrest is solid and secure with extra padding, some reviewers have noted that it’s not overly restrictive and has enough space for natural movement.

We Test Baby And Child Car Seats - Which? How We Test Baby And Child Car Seats - Which?

With child safety being their highest priority on the road, it’s no surprise that Maxi-Cosi have designed the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size to comply with the highest and latest i-Size safety standards, making it a trusted reliable choice for your child. R129 regulations are currently running in parallel with R44 so you can buy car seats that adhere to either guidelines. At some point, R44 car seats will be phased out of the shops – but it's unclear exactly when this will happen. What are the differences between R44 and R129?

Tandem Adaptors

Stylish and easy to install, the plush memory foam padding and recline features also make it comfy for little ones. However some reviewers have noted that their children have taken a little more time to get used to the impact shield than they would a traditional harness as the solid piece fits securely across the body. An update on the popular Axkid ONE, the Axkid ONE 2 boasts over 150 updates, most notably the headrest adjustment, which now slides to extend at the push of a button. You’ll also find new ventilation holes for maximum safety and comfort on long car journeys, particularly in warm weather. With plenty of impressive safety features and a simple installation process that doesn't require an ISOFIX base, the Advansafix is regarded as a durable and reliable car seat that will go the extra mile. This seat can be secured with ISOFIX anchor points and a top tether that goes over the top of the car seat, plus a five-point harness up until your child reaches 18kg. Then, from 18 to 36kg, simply use the ISOFIX and/or a three-point seatbelt to secure your child in place. Try before you buy: If possible, try fitting the car seat in your vehicle before purchasing to ensure it fits securely.