That’s why the Nuna AACE lx car seat stands out in the Group 2/3 car seat market with its brilliant 3D Growth™ System, that really delivers on the promise of taking your child from age 4 to 12 (or 100cm – 150cm) comfortably. Unlike many car seats that just go up as your child does, the Nuna goes up, out and along to reflect the natural growth of a child with an impressive 17 different headrest positions, widening shoulder pads and the ability to increase the seat depth 3 times as your child’s legs lengthen.

The seat also packs a punch when it comes to safety, so you can be sure your child is both comfortable and secure – it meets all the latest European car seat standards and has added safety extras like side protection pods.

And, as the seat is created by Nuna, a global brand who have been producing high quality baby equipment since 2007, you know that it’ll be a luxurious product, with a sleek design and lovely plush materials. All this comes at a premium though – it'll set you back £220, but as our parent tester found, it’s worth every penny.

What were your first impressions of the Nuna AACE lx car seat?

The car seat came almost completely assembled inside a neat cardboard box and I was very impressed at how lightweight it was as I carried it from the front door to the car.

My husband laughed when he saw the sticker on the box that showed the colourway and said it must be a premium product if black is described as “caviar”! This was confirmed when I lifted it out the box and saw a very smart looking seat, with lovely soft fabrics and a sleek design with textured fabric on the shoulder area.

The only assembly required was to pop the cup holder on the desired side and the insert the side protection pod into the side of the car seat that would be next to the car door. These were both added with one simple click and are easy to unclick if you decide to put the car seat on the other side of the car. My daughter was particularly excited about the cup holder and it was nice that this came as standard.

How do you install the Nuna AACE lx car seat?

It was so simple to install, and I had it safely fitted into the car within minutes of opening the box. This was a relief as I’ve sweated (and cursed!) over a few car seats that were heavy and strenuous to install in my time. I did read the quick install guide which had clearly numbered illustrations to help me get it right, although it is a pretty intuitive process.

You simply pull the lower handle under the seat to release the ISOFIX bar with connectors, flip the bar 180° so the connectors are facing the car connectors and then click in place and check the indicators have gone green. One it's clicked in you push the seat back until it's flush to the car's own seat (picture above shows seat before it has been pushed back).

How secure does the Nuna AACE lx car seat feel?

This seat is a safety-conscious parent’s dream as it uses ISOFIX technology to secure into the car in the form of a solid bar (rather than any individual straps that can feel flimsy). The bar flips out when you pull the handle under the seat, so you can easily click it into place. To help give complete peace of mind there’s an indicator on each side too, that turns green when in the right position.

The bar design means the seat is completely solid once in the car and there’s no worry it might move around. Once in place you can use the handle to push the car seat back against the car’s own seat. I loved how much visibility this bar system gave me to see exactly where the ISOFIX connections were, rather than feeling around blindly for the connection like I have in the past.

You can use the seat without ISOFIX however, for example if you’re moving it into another car or travelling in a vehicle without the technology, which is useful to know. Everything is clearly explained by both pictures and in word format in the user manual.

How comfortable is the car seat for your child?

My daughter found the Nuna AACE lx very comfortable and loved the silky material and shape of the seat. She managed to have a nap in it for an hour on one long journey, although before we reclined the seat her head was slipping a little as the head supports are a little shallower than she’s used to in her old toddler seat.

Once we made use of the recline feature though (by pulling the Isofix bar out to make it longer and pushing the back of the seat back) she was catching flies happily!

The recline feature will be more useful in certain cars than others – for example in the Land Rover we could recline it fully, however in the Volvo the unique design of the headrests (Volvo owners will know!) meant it couldn’t reach its full potential as these were in the way.

The seat fabric is very soft to the touch but overall doesn’t feel hugely padded, however it must be comfortable as my daughter used to complain that her bottom was hurting on long journeys but hasn’t mentioned that once in her new Nuna seat.

What are the key safety features of the Nuna AACE lx car seat?

This car seat meets all the current safety standards and then some, so you’ll have real peace of mind as a parent when using it. It has been approved to the latest European i-Size (R129) safety standards and received a 4-star rating in the ADAC child car seat test.

It also comes with a side impact protection pod that you easily slot into a hole on the side of the seat that is next to the car door. It’s big enough to offer protection in a crash but not so big that it wouldn’t impede shutting the door of even the smallest of cars (we tried it in a Mini!). This is paired with energy absorbing EPP foam to ensure that if you’re involved in a crash, the pod and the integrated foam shell of the seat take on as much of the impact as possible.

When you first feel the seat as a whole, it doesn’t feel quite as sturdy as some seats I’ve had, but this isn’t because it’s not strong and premium. It’s just part of the clever expanding design that allows for the shoulder pads to expand outwards, so the seat naturally has to have more give.

The only safety problem for us, and something I hadn’t foreseen, was that my daughter Margot couldn’t be trusted to go from a harness to a seatbelt at the age of 4 like my son had previously.

We had a few occasions when in traffic where Margot thought the car had parked and unclicked her belt. I only knew she had because the car started alerting me to say she was loose! So, if you’ve got a little fiddle fingers child like me, you might want to wait to graduate to a seatbelt until they can be trusted not to unclick!

How do you use a seatbelt with the Nuna AACE lx car seat?

There’s a foolproof belt path guide, so you know that the seatbelt is in the right position, which is always something I worry about when moving from a harness to a belt with a 4 year old. These guides are clearly marked in green just above the shoulder area and you simply slot the belt through them. It stays there between journeys, so you only have to get it right once! This is particularly good if your child is old enough to do their own seat belt, as you know it’s in the right position from the off.

Finally, there’s a small lip at the side of the seat for the belt to go under before you click it in. This looked quite shallow to me at first and like the belt might slip out, but it hasn’t slipped once and is the perfect size.

How adjustable is the seat as the child grows?

The adjustability really is the USP of the Nuna AACE lx car seat. The brilliant 3D Growth™ System, which means the headrest has 17 height settings, the shoulder pads expand and the seat deepens as your child grows, really is a genius offering. Nuna understand that children don’t just grow upwards like weeds but out and along too, so this seat will remain comfortable for them right up to 150cm, whether they grow tall and broad-shouldered or stay small and compact.

And adjusting the car seat as your child grows couldn’t be easier. I managed to switch the headrest height between my 2 very different height kids with one hand and the same with the seat depth. The shoulder area doesn’t need any manual adjusting as it expands in conjunction with the headrest height.

I was impressed at how well the seat worked for both my daughter and son who are very different heights and shapes.

How well does it fit in your car?

The Nuna AACE lx car seat is on the larger size for a 4+ car seat and a bit bulkier than some I’ve seen. However, I tested it in both a small car (Mini) and a large car (Volvo) and it fitted nicely in both, even with another car seat on the other side. When a child who is 150cm with wider shoulders is in the seat it would probably be best in a larger car.

The only issue we had was that our Volvo has very bulky and specifically designed headrests that didn't allowed the seat to recline properly so we had to manually remove these in order to use that feature. This wasn't a problem in the other cars we tried though.

How does the Nuna AAC lx compare to similar car seats?

My son currently uses a Graco Junior Maxi i-size R129, which works well for him, but is a completely different car seat offering as it’s a much more lightweight budget seat (and has no ISOFIX) compared to the Nuna AACE lx. For longer journeys the Nuna is a much more comfortable car seat and feels more luxurious and padded.

We’ve also previously been very fond of Britax Römer car seats and I’d say the Nuna AACE lx and the Britax Römer Kidfix i-Size (£179) are similar premium car seats that are brilliant for long journeys. The Nuna slightly has the edge for me with the 3D Growth™ System though, however it's slightly more expensive as a result.

How easy is it to clean?

As soon as the Nuna AACE lx car seat arrived, I re-instated my no eating in the car rule (that somehow slipped in a moment of needs-must parenting last summer!), so fortunately we’ve not had to machine wash the Nuna AACE fabric yet.

However, with the summer holidays on the horizon (cue suncream, snacks and spilt drinks) I’m sure we will be soon. Thankfully the process looks very easy indeed, with clear pictures showing how the covers come off in the manual.

We have wiped the material clean in situ though when my daughter climbed on it with muddy shoes and it cleaned off beautifully.

How practical is the Nuna AACE lx car seat for parents?

This is a really practical seat for parents, with a cup holder so kids can hydrate themselves instead of screaming for water mid motorway drive. The ease of adjusting the height of the seat with one hand is brilliant too if you’ve got a child or bags in the other arm.

There’s also an area to store the instruction manual underneath the seat so you won’t lose it, and even if you do there’s a PDF version easily accessible online.

The seatbelt guides and ISOFIX indicators are really parent-friendly too – taking away any anxiety that you’ve not set things up correctly!

Finally, even though it has loads of features the seat is still quite lightweight and I found it easy to move it between cars.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x fully assembled car seat
• 1 x cup holder
• 1 x side protection pod
• 2 x ISOFIX guides (only needed for some cars)
• 1 x user manual (although our box had three for good measure!)

Is the Nuna AACE lx car seat worth the money?

While it’s definitely at the top end of what I’d pay for a Group 2/3 car seat, I’d say it’s worth the money thanks to the fact that it’ll last my daughter for so many years (from age 4 right up to 12, if she’s not 150cm before then). If you break that down by years it’s only about £25 per year, and I’d happily pay that for peace of mind that she’s safe, secure and comfortable.

If you’re only doing short journeys it might not be worth splashing out, but as we regularly travel 5 hours plus to visit relatives and go on holiday this car seat is a brilliant option for us.

Where can I buy the Nuna AACE lx car seat?

It's available from John Lewis, Very and Natural Baby Shower.

MadeForMums verdict

The Nuna AACE lx car seat is a brilliant next-step car seat when your child reaches the age of 4 or 100cm. I was particularly impressed by the quality of the seat as well as all the extra comfort and safety features. While it's definitely up there as one of the most expensive seats in the Group 2/3 category it's worth the money (if you have the budget) because the clever 3D Growth™ System means it'll last you until your child no longer needs a seat, plus they'll find it comfortable even when they're much bigger. Even with all the extra features and high quality materials used, the seat manages to be lightweight too so it's very easy to move from car to car. I also found it so easy and intuitive to install and feel happy that my daughter is as safe as possible thanks to the belt guides and ISOFIX indicators.

With comfort at its core, the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow has been made with breathable fabric, adjustable headrest, multiple recline positions and even a moveable back support. With an RRP of £249, it sits at the premium end of the market price wise, but considering it is designed to grow with your child, it could be considered a worthwhile investment.

Coming in at a slightly higher price point is the brand's MaxSpace Comfort System +, £279. Claiming to be “a car seat unlike any other” and “the answer to the problems related to many spinal ailments that impact children during travel,” it was created by paediatric physiotherapy and engineer specialists, to “set a new standard of sitting comfort.”

Like the MaxSpace AirFlow, this high-back booster seat is designed for children aged approx. 3 to 12 years old, 100-150cm or 15-36kg. It also includes a backrest tilt function and contoured cushion to prevent strain on the lower spine, a deep seat to support the natural contours of the pelvis and additional cushioning to support the femur, preventing numbness in the legs. It's no wonder the seat has been acclaimed by the German association, Aktion Gesunder Rücken (AGR) – an independent organisation which promotes back health.

Both Avionaut models are at the top end of the booster car seat market, costing around £100+ more than the Silver Cross Discover i-Size, £15o, and the Cybex Solution G i-Fix, £174.95.

How easy is the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow car seat to install?

The Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow comes with a small instruction manual with some simple to follow diagrams showing you how to fit the seat into the car. After a quick look, I was able to fit the seat into my car (Jaguar F-Pace) in a matter of seconds.

First, find the small silver release buttons at the bottom of the seat at the front. Lift the release buttons to pull the ISOFIX bars out. What makes this easy is that you can do it one handed. You only need to pull one of the release buttons and both of the ISOFIX bars will pull out at the same time. Next you insert the bars into the ISOFIX on your car. There are red indicators on both bars and when inserted correctly they will turn green. Once green, lift the silver release buttons again to push the seat back snugly against the seat of the car.

The booster seat is quite heavy to lift, I did find it bulky to manoeuvre into my car, which is spacious, so I think it might be a tight squeeze for smaller cars.

The side impact protection was also quite fiddly to fix into place. After several attempts, I gave up as I found it too stiff. My husband managed to clip it into place easily though, and after demonstrating that there’s a ‘knack’ to it, I eventually managed to do it myself, even though I still found it a bit stiff.

How comfortable are the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow and MaxSpace Comfort System + car seats for children?

The MaxSpace AirFlow seat feels very sturdy, and the cushioned seat looks comfortable. Recognised by the AGR for promoting healthy back support, it ensures correct posture which gives me peace of mind that my 5 year old is seated in the safest and most comfortable position. The profiled backrest is also designed to naturally contour your child’s body, providing stability. My son did complain a few times that the cushioned back support was uncomfortable but it might be because he is used to his usual booster seat (Cozy N Safe Augusta) which doesn’t have a cushioned support. With a width of 44cm, it’s a roomy seat, giving your child plenty of space as they grow.

The headrest can be adjusted, so it grows with your child. Unlike a lot of other high back booster seats, this one has adjustable recline positions which is perfect for long car journeys. My little boy often dozes off during long car trips, so having the option to recline him a little bit so that he can sleep more comfortably is ideal.

On testing the MaxSpace Comfort System +, Naomi said: "On our first journey, Ari, our 4 year old, immediately declared: 'I love this seat. I feel so safe and comfortable.' On our second journey – a trip to the museum – he actually fell asleep for a nap, which he hasn’t done in a car seat since the age of 2. We'd say that the MaxSpace Comfort definitely lives up to its name."

What are the safety features of the Avionaut car seats?

The Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow meets the latest safety standards and it certainly feels really robust and strong without compromising on comfort. The additional side impact protection gives extra peace of mind that your child is fully protected in the event of an accident, and the seat also received a positive rating from the AGR for meeting the highest levels of ergonomics.

The MaxSpace Comfort System + is certified according to R129/03 EU standard (gauging the maximum level of car safety) plus it has a 4-star ADAC (Europe’s largest automobile association) rating.

What is the AirFlow system like on the Avionaut car seat?

The breathable mesh fabrics are ideal for season changes, and help to regulate your child’s temperature during car rides. The AirFlow system is designed to hold heat during cooler months, and promote airflow during the summer months so that your child doesn’t get too hot. During a long car trip, my son fell asleep and seemed very comfortable. He’s somewhat of a sweaty sleeper and overheats easily, but he didn’t get sweaty in this seat at all.

How do the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow and MaxSpace Comfort System + compare to similar car seats?

Compared to the other high back booster seats and car seats I’ve tried (Cozy N Safe Augusta i-Size, £79.99, and Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2, £169.99) the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow is by far the sturdiest and feels the most durable. It also feels the comfiest and is a lot more cushioned than the other booster seats I’ve tried. A similar seat is the Nuna Aace LX, £220, which also has adjustable headrest and seat positions, is stylish and super padded, although I’ve not had the chance to test it yet.

Naomi says: "The Avionaut MaxSpace Comfort System + is the only high back booster we have used. However, a friend commented that the seat was much wider than any she had used before, which she saw as a positive for comfort, adding that the seats she has used have been too narrow and consequently uncomfortable for her children."

How well do the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow and MaxSpace Comfort System + car seats fit growing children?

With a width of 44cm wide, the MaxSpace AirFlow is a fairly wide booster and gives extra room for a growing child. The adjustable headrest and recline positions also mean that the seat can adjust to fit your child as they grow.

"We tested the MaxSpace Comfort System + car seat with our 2 sons and both were big fans," adds Naomi. "Ari (4) used the seat on day-to-day journeys to school and days out and Noah (6) tested it on a longer trip to Wales – a journey of 4 hours each way. There were minor adjustments to the cervical support cushion and head rest to accommodate the difference in children’s heights but these adjustments were very easy and straightforward – again, taking less than a minute.

The car seat is specifically designed to grow with your child from approx. 3 to 12 years. At 123cm, Noah is tall for a 6 year old, with long limbs and broad shoulders. The MaxSpace Comfort System + seat was wide enough for him to relax comfortably on a long journey with plenty of room for growth."

How portable is the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow car seat?

The seat is bulky and heavy, so it wasn’t the easiest to lift and carry. My car is big (Jaguar F-Pace) and it took a bit of gentle manoeuvring to get it through the door and onto the seat without knocking or scratching the car, so it might be even trickier with smaller cars. I’m used to a slimmer high back booster seat that I can remove and install quickly and pop in the boot of my car when not needed, but this one is a bit too bulky to keep removing. And, although it fits easily into the boot of my car, it might be a tight squeeze in smaller car boots. If you're after a lightweight booster seat for switching between cars regularly you may prefer something like the budget Graco Junior Maxi i-Size, £50, which weights just 3.4kg.

Is the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow car seat well designed?

The instruction manual states that the seatbelt should be threaded through the green shoulder belt guides on the booster seat. However, I found the shoulder belt guide to be really tight and it was fiddly to thread the belt through. Frustratingly, the belt kept getting caught after unbuckling my son, and didn’t fully retract on its own, leaving a lot of slack which looked messy. I had to keep threading the belt back through the slot myself which was time consuming on the busy school run. It also made it difficult for my son to strap himself in, because the belt was stiff to pull. However, I really liked the overall design of this seat. I love how cushioned it is, and the mesh fabric is really easy to clean as well as being comfortable. The width of this seat is also a big bonus as it means my 5 year old won’t outgrow it too quickly.

How easy to clean is the MaxSpace AirFlow car seat?

The resistant mesh material on this Avionaut seat is meant to maintain its shape and texture despite heavy use and washing. I used this seat every day and took the fabric off to wash, and found that even after several weeks, it still looked as good as new. My son can be quite messy, especially if he is eating a snack while in his booster seat, but it was really easy to hoover up crumbs and wipe away any dirt. But for tougher marks, the fabric can be easily removed.

The instruction manual has a few diagrams to show how to remove the fabric from the seat, and while they were a little confusing to follow, I managed to get all of the fabric off in about 15mins. The fabric can only be handwashed and can’t be tumble dried, so I had to allow it to air dry after. It can be ironed on a low temperature, although I found it didn’t really need ironing when it came to refitting.

The problem I encountered was refitting the fabric back onto the seat. There are no instructions in the manual showing how to do this, so I had to work backwards, trying to remember how I’d removed it in order to refit it correctly. It was very fiddly and confusing and took almost double the time to figure it out and get the fabric back on. Although, once back on, the seat looked like new which is a bonus.

What’s in the box?

Just the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow car seat and instruction manual. What I liked about this booster seat is that there is no prior assembly required – the seat comes fully assembled in the box. The seat was covered with a plastic bag, so not the most environmentally friendly, but it kept the seat clean and free from damage.

Naomi adds: "The Avionaut MaxSpace Comfort System + car seat arrived in a large recyclable plastic bag placed inside a large cardboard box. The plastic bag protected the seat in terms of minor bumps and potential water damage but it was perhaps unnecessary packaging – brown paper alternatives would have sufficed."

Are the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow and MaxSpace Comfort System + car seats worth the money?

At £249, the MaxSpace AirFlow is one of the pricier high back booster seats on the market, but you certainly feel as though you’ve got a lot of seat for your money considering how strong, durable and robust it feels. It is designed to last too, growing with your child, and the fact that the fabrics retain their shape and texture even with repeated washing means the seat will withstand years of daily use without looking worn-out. So, while it is a little bit more expensive than other booster seats, it is definitely worth it for the quality.

After testing the MaxSpace Comfort System + car seat, Naomi commented: "While this is certainly an investment, this car seat packs a big promise – to protect your children’s backs from problems, such as poor posture and scoliosis. Could you put a price tag on that? I think £279 is a fairly reasonable sum, particularly given Avionaut’s 10-year warranty and the outstanding quality and safety features of the MaxSpace."

Where can I buy the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow and MaxSpace Comfort System + car seats?

The Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow car seat is available at Kiddies Kingdom, Pramworld and Baby Planet.

The Avionaut MaxSpace Comfort System + car seat is available at Baby and Child Store, Baby Boutique and Smart Kid Store.

MadeForMums verdict

It’s difficult to find fault with the Avionaut MaxSpace AirFlow booster, but considering the price, I wouldn’t expect to. It has been designed to last, and offers unbeatable comfort and protection. The fact that it has recline positions, is comfortably roomy, and made from temperature regulating materials makes it a great choice for parents happy to spend a little bit more in order to benefit from high quality features.

Naomi adds: "The Avionaut MaxSpace Comfort System + car seat has been a huge hit with our family. The only problem being it’s causing a few arguments: both boys want to use it as 'it’s the most comfortable seat in the car!' The unique features to support a child's back, head and neck, and encourage a healthy posture, as well as reassuring safety features and luxurious design, make this a high-end, high back booster seat that ticks all of our boxes as a family. We’ll be investing in another one and I would recommend other parents do the same thing if budget allows."

It's mid-range, costing £79.90, and has retractable ISOFIX connectors, though it can also be easily installed with just a seatbelt. It has many safety features, including a durable shell with wide energy-absorbing side wings and an H-GUARD three-layered headrest to provide exceptional safety in the event of a collision.

One of the most unique selling features is the headrest, which can be adjusted to 10 different heights with just one hand, so the seat can grow with your child. It also boasts ergonomic armrests for extra comfort. The seat covers are removable and washable.

What are your first impressions of the car seat?

It looks good quality for the price. The material is a nice colour and seems durable. I got the impression it was a much higher-end product than it was.

How easy was it to install the car seat?

I was only able to test the booster seat in a car without ISOFIX, but it was incredibly easy to install using the seatbelt, which had to be threaded through three simple points on the seat.

This is very easy to do and takes a matter of seconds. The headrest is also very easy to adjust as your child grows. They do say it can be done with one hand – I'm not sure it is quite that simple, but it was easy.

It can also be installed with ISOFIX connectors, and as we plan to upgrade the car soon, it's good to have a seat that allows both options, so we don't end up having to go out and buy a new one. I was happy Ivy looked safe and secure.

What are the key safety features of the car seat?

The car seat is forward-facing as appropriate for her age. It has a strong reinforced shell with energy-absorbing padding, wide side wings for impact protection and an adjustable headrest that can be moved into 10 positions.

I felt happy and reassured that Ivy was safe and secure in the seat.

Any unique features?

One of the standout features was the 10-point adjustable headrest. Ivy is tall for her age, and we have struggled to find a car seat that grows with her, and she ends up looking squashed and uncomfortable.

This was roomy, and she has plenty of space to grow into it. The seat fabric seemed good quality and washable.

How comfortable did your child find the car seat?

Ivy loved it. She had more room than in her previous seat and looked more comfortable.

The seat is wide and comfortable, and there are armrests, which I thought helped, especially on longer journeys. Her big sister Olive had a turn while on the driveway, and she loved it too.

Olive is 6, and although this car seat is suitable for children up to 150cm or around 12 years, I felt she was bordering on the upper limit. She is quite tall at 120cm and nearly 7 years old, and it's not a seat I would necessarily have chosen for her.

How robust does the car seat feel?

The material seemed durable and good quality, as well as being stylish. The shell seemed sturdy and strong, yet still lightweight to lift in and out of the car. I think this seat would last a good few years.

How easy is it to clean?

The covers are removable and can go in the washing machine. This was pretty easy to do. It was a bit tricky trying to pull them over the shell after they'd been washed, but the covers themselves came up like new.

The fabric is quite a light grey on the seat itself, and Ivy spilled something on it in a matter of days. I dabbed it down and didn't really notice at all.

How do you find the car seat to carry around?

Easy. It's very lightweight. We often have to lift the seat in and out of the car to accommodate different children and their friends, and it was no bother at all to take it in and out again.

As we do this a lot, this was a massive bonus point for the seat and a reason I'd buy it again. It weighs 6.4kg.

Is the car seat big enough for a growing child?

This seat is suitable for children between 100cm and 150cm tall, and roughly 3 to 12 years of age. Three-year-old Ivy is very tall for her age, and this seat fits her well with plenty of growing room.

I tried my 6-year-old in it and felt she looked quite tall in it. I'm not sure I would have chosen this for a taller or older child.

While there was plenty of room for her to sit, I think she would be more comfortable in a slimline seat without the extra safety functions that are in place for younger children.

How does it compare with other booster seats you've used?

For the price, I thought this car seat was great value. I've spent double this on similar seats before, and this appears just as durable and comfortable for Ivy. It was light, easy to install and looked stylish.

What's in the box?

Just the car seat. It comes as a whole, and you don't have to put anything together. It took a matter of minutes to install this in the car.

What additional accessories can you buy?

None.

What about packaging?

It's a big box that can be recycled, and a clear plastic bag.

What do you wish you'd known before purchasing the product?

I think it's important to know that this seat might not be the best choice for children closer to the 150cm mark. Otherwise, I was very happy with it.

Who would this product be most useful for?

While guidelines state it's suitable for children up to 150cms and around 12 years old, I think it is best suited to younger and smaller children in the category, probably up to around the age of 6 or 7, depending on their height.

Is this product worth the money?

For a budget product, I thought this was great value. It appeared higher-end and though I’ve only had it for two weeks, it does appear as though it is built to last. It washed up well and is suitable for cars with or without ISOFIX.

Where can I buy the Kinderkraft JUNIOR FIX 2 i-Size?

It is available from Amazon, Kiddies Kingdom and Very

MadeForMums verdict:

We thought this car seat was excellent value. It appears like a much higher-end product, has lots of safety features to keep your child safe and is spacious and comfortable for both long and short journeys. We loved the 10-point adjustable headrest, which will allow this car seat to grow with your child. We do think it is better suited to children at the lower and mid end of the recommended age range, so do try it first if your child is especially tall.

Designed to make it easy for parents to get their little ones into the car, the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size allows children to be able to buckle up without any help. It has an innovative ClickAssist light which detects when your child is sat in the seat and illuminates the buckle area to make it fun, quick and easy to fasten the seatbelt ready for the next adventure.

Compliant with the highest and latest i-Size safety standards, the car seat also boasts superior side impact protection, although at £209.99 it does sit at the pricier end of the booster seat market.

What were your first impressions of the car seat?

Our Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat was delivered to our neighbour’s house and I couldn’t believe just how lightweight it was for me to carry back home in its box! Weighing just 6.1kg, I easily managed to carry the car seat in one hand while holding hands with my 19-month-old son, William, with the other.

The car seat comes fully assembled in the box as its ISOFIX connectors slide straight from the base. I love the sleek and modern look of the seat and immediately noticed how streamlined the design is compared to other much bulkier Group 2/3 car seats. Elodie and I were really excited about the innovative ClickAssist light feature, and she kept asking to go out in the car!

How easy is the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat to install?

It's incredibly simple to install and took a matter of minutes. The steps are pictured on the side of the car seat itself and in the easy-to-follow user guide but it really was impossible to make a mistake as it’s very intuitive. The QR code on the front cover of the short user guide takes you to the full online manual which includes images showing exactly how your child should be positioned within the seat and how the seatbelt should rest over their shoulder and across their lap. There’s even a handy pocket in the front of the seat for storing the instruction manual.

How do you install the Kore Pro i-Size car seat?

First, you remove the headrest from your car’s back seat, then you need to fully extend the Kore Pro’s yellow ISOFIX connectors by pinching the grey buttons on each side. These seemed a little stiff at first, but much smoother after a few times. Once the connectors lock into place, simply push the seat back into position until you hear a click. You can then thread the seatbelt through the seat, which is clear and easy to follow. If your car doesn’t have ISOFIX, you can also secure the Kore Pro i-Size using a seatbelt.

How secure does it feel?

The ISOFIX connectors lock the base of the seat firmly into place so there is no movement. Initially, I was concerned that there was backward and forward movement of the backrest, however, on further research this is intentional so that it fits the seats of different car models giving children a comfortable resting position. Once your child is sat in position and secured with the seatbelt as directed, there is no movement at all, even on bumpy New Forest tracks!

What are the key safety features of the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat?

The R129/i-Size car seat standard is the most up-to-date safety standard for car seats, which classifies car seats based on a child’s height rather than weight. The Kore Pro i-Size also has Side Protection System Plus which uses impact-absorbing materials in each side wing to reduce the risk of injury in case of a side collision. The seat also has glass fibre shock absorbers for maximum safety and its shell protects your child from their head to their lap. You secure your child in position using the car’s seatbelt rather than a harness, which is typical of a high-back booster seat.

Does the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat have any unique features?

When I read the USP that the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro claims to enable your child to buckle up with any help, I wondered if this was an overpromise. Aged 4-and-a-half, Elodie has recently started infant school and as a full-time mum-of-2, mornings are stressful to say the least, juggling school breakfast club and nursery drop-offs before my drive to work.

Elodie has never been able to buckle up herself so I’d previously have to secure my 19-month-old son safely in his car seat before heading around to Elodie’s side, unceremoniously leaning across her seat fumbling to secure her seatbelt before the quick dash back to the driver’s seat.

The design of the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro is simply a game-changer for busy parents. Its slimline design features an open space at the bottom of the car seat so not only can kids easily climb in, but their buckle is within a short reach of a little arm.

The seat senses when the child is in position and the ClickAssist automatically lights up after 3 seconds, further guiding little hands to the buckle even in the dark. On Elodie’s first few attempts, the light turned off before she managed to buckle up which left her a little despondent, however, you can manually illuminate the light by pressing the lightbulb icon, which she loves. Based on normal usage of the car seat, the light's batteries have a lifespan of approximately 4 years.

How comfortable did your child find the Kore Pro i-Size car seat?

Elodie is very comfortable in the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro. When we first unpacked the car seat, the children both took turns in it on the lounge floor to watch a film! The seat has quality thick padding, providing extra comfort for longer journeys. The car seat is made using premium bamboo fabrics, which help to keep your child cool in warmer weather.

How easy is it to clean?

The dark colour of the Kore Pro seat is particularly forgiving and it can be wiped clean with a damp cloth with great results. The cover can be easily removed for machine washing at 30 degrees.

How easy is the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat to carry around?

Weighing just 6.1kg, I was pleasantly surprised at how lightweight the car seat is to carry around. Its weight and ease of installation will make it perfect for children who regularly travel in different cars.

Is the Kore Pro i-Size car seat big enough for a growing child?

I'd say so. The Maxi-Cosi car seat cleverly expands in both length and width simply by adjusting the headrest, giving children more space as they grow. The headrest is easy to adjust from the side using just one hand, making it easy to alter to suit all ages and heights within the range. I particularly love how the width also expands as the child gets taller. This is really handy as it doesn’t take up too much space while your child doesn’t need it.

What is the difference between the Maxi-Cosi Kore i-Size and the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size?

The main difference is that the Kore Pro i-Size has the ClickAssist light. It is also made from premium bamboo fabrics rather than polyester, which helps a child to stay cool in the seat in warmer weather. In my opinion, it’s well worth paying the extra £30. Elodie loved the light, it definitely made journeys more fun and provided an extra incentive to buckle up quickly before it switches off!

How does it compare with other booster seats or Group 2/3 seats you’ve used?

We’ve previously used the Group 2/3 Recaro Monza Nova, an award-winning car seat with built-in speakers in the headrest. It is very comfortable but the plush fabric means it can get hot in summer months. It is also very bulky and its large armrests meant it was tricky for Elodie to secure her own seatbelt, and even made it difficult for me to lean across and find the buckle.

What’s in the box?

• 1 x fully assembled car seat
• 1 x short user guide with QR code links to more detailed information on the Maxi-Cosi website.

What did you think of the packaging of the product?

It was minimal, the car seat came in a protective bag placed inside a cardboard box.

Do Maxi-Cosi offer any repair options?

If your car seat fails due to a manufacturing or workmanship defect, Maxi-Cosi will send a replacement part or make a repair free of charge under their 24-month warranty. If a repair is not possible, it will be replaced. If your car seat is damaged as a result of normal wear and tear or an accident, there is a paid-for repair service to help extend the lifecycle of the product.

Is the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat sustainable?

Maxi-Cosi say they are committed to sustainability and that their car seats can be recycled. When a product has reached the end of its use, they advise taking it to a local recycling centre who will break it down into separate components and recycle each part separately.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat?

Even young kids really can buckle up by themselves thanks to its unique design, saving unnecessary stress and making car journeys fun. It is also much lighter than expected, which was a pleasant surprise.

When you install the Kore Pro i-Size, you can choose which side the light illuminates (the side of the seatbelt buckle). To activate the light, press and hold down the button above the light on the side you want to activate for 3 seconds. This side will now light up automatically each time your child sits in the seat.

Who would the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size car seat be most useful for?

Any child in the recommended height/age range. The seat’s stylish design should appeal across the age group with the added bonus of the ClickAssist for anyone whose younger children may be struggling to fasten their own seatbelt. I particularly liked how smoothly the headrest lifts up to raise and widen the backrest to ensure optimum comfort for each child. It’s a really clever design, which genuinely grows with your little one.

This car seat would be a great buy for anyone with a smaller car due to its slimline frame, or if you regularly need to remove the car seat to fit It into different cars perhaps due to childcare as it was hassle-free and surprisingly lightweight.

Is the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size worth the money?

Priced at £209.99, it is fairly expensive, however as a quality seat which will appeal to most ages and possibly last you up to 9 years, the Kore Pro i-Size is a great investment.

Where can I buy the Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size?

It is available from John Lewis, Boots and Maxi-Cosi

MadeForMums verdict

The Maxi-Cosi Kore Pro i-Size has been a game-changer, particularly for our busy mornings. Even when I’m in a rush, it’s stress-free and easy to use. I always struggled to remove Elodie’s last car seat, but when Elodie asked to travel in her friend’s car to a play date, it took a matter of minutes to remove and install the Kore Pro in a different car. I love how Elodie can easily climb in and out of the seat and secure the seatbelt herself, which gives her more independence and a huge sense of achievement. My mini-tester gives it a big thumbs up and has already told all her friends about her new car seat, which lights up!

Tapping into the more premium market, Joie has launched its Signature range, with a focus on luxurious touches and soft fabrics.

The Joie i-Traver is a chic, belted high-back booster seat from the brand's Signature range, designed for children age approx. 3-and-a-half years to 12 years.

Coming in at just £135, it's a stylish R129-approved car seat with excellent safety features and timeless style, all at a very competitive price.

First impressions

All good. The materials of the Joie i-Traver car seat felt plush, giving it a luxurious feel. But it's not just about style, the i-Traver also appears robust and well-built.

How easy is the Joie i-Traver car seat to install?

The seat can be fixed into your car using ISOFIX and seatbelt, or just the seatbelt. It's incredibly straightforward. We used it with ISOFIX and it felt really safe and secure.

How do you install the Joie i-Traver car seat?

To install, you just extend the ISOFIX connectors and slot them into your car's ISOFIX fixtures. There are clear seatbelt guides – all in green – to make sure the belt is in the correct position when buckling your child in safely.

The Joie i-Traver features adjustable ISOFIX connectors that can be fully retracted, which makes this car seat suitable to use in all cars, no matter if these are equipped with ISOFIX anchor points.

What are the key safety features of the Joie i-Traver car seat?

The Joie i-Traver is a forward-facing, high-back booster seat compliant with the latest R129/i-Size car seat regulations. It can be quickly installed using ISOFIX or added stability, features TriProtect head support with memory foam, an AutoAdjust seat cushion, and provides additional side impact protection through Joie’s Guard Surround Safety.

Does the Joie i-Traver car seat have any unique features?

A clever feature of the i-Traver is the adjustable seat cushion – what Joie calls AutoAdjust™ – which offers 3 different positions of seat depth, to grow with your child.

To prevent 'submarining' and ensure comfort, the end of the seat cushion should align with where your child's knee bends, and Joie has made it easy to adapt as your child grows simply by pulling the underside of the seat pad to extend.

How comfortable did your child find the Joie i-Traver car seat?

My son Jude really likes the padded armrest and found the headrest comfy for on-the-go snoozes. He has declared the Joie i-Traver “very comfortable.”

How robust does the car seat feel?

Despite being relatively lightweight (5.6kg) the Joie i-Traver car seat feels sturdy. As it’s part of their premium Signature range the deluxe cushioning looks plush and very comfy.

How easy is the Joie i-Traver car seat to clean?

The covers are easily removable and can be washed at 30° – a godsend for parents whose kids like to snack in the car! I’ve wiped them down easily after Jude spilt some of his milkshake on it, which is excellent.

How do you find the car seat to carry around?

The Joie i-Traver car seat weighs 5.6kg (just under 1 stone) so it’s pretty lightweight and easily transportable between cars if needed.

It may not be as light as the Graco Junior Maxi i-Size at 3.4kg, but it's still very easy to move around.

I’ve tested it in our Audi A3 and my mother-in-law’s Volvo V70. It took us less than 2 minutes to switch the car seat between cars.

Is the Joie i-Traver car seat big enough for a growing child?

The 10-point adjustable headrest, 2-point adjustable backrest and 3-point adjustable seat are designed to grow with your child. At 107cm, Jude is quite tall for his age (the average for that age group is around 101cm), but is still at the lower end of the suitable height range.

The i-Traver definitely offers some decent longevity of use, but I’m not sure if it will last a child until 12 years old – I think that may be a bit ambitious. It’s important to note that the child’s weight is irrelevant, but the child has to be over 100cm to use the seat.

How does the i-Traver compare to previous versions of the car seat?

The i-Traver is the latest version of the Traver (released in 2017), which means it's been designed and approved to the latest R129 regulations.The Traver is one of Joie’s most popular designs and is cheaper, retailing at just £75. The i-Traver is part of their premium range and looks and feels more luxurious.

Both car seats have similar features – an adjustable headrest, an adjustable seat and extra side protection – however, the original design is a bit heavier and wider, with some parents complaining that it took up a lot of space in the second row of a car. But the i-Traver is a bit more compact than the original design, measuring L40-44cm x W56cm x H63-83cm.

How does the Joie i-Traver compare with other booster seats or Group 2/3 seats you’ve used?

I’ve also used Halfords Essentials Group 1/2/3 Child Car Seat, as my dad has this in his car. This car seat is considerably cheaper at £38.40 but it’s a bit heavier and isn’t as easy to transport between cars. It’s also not i-Size or compatible with ISOFIX. Group 2/3 seats are used from around 3-and-a-half to 12 years of age, or up to 135cm in height.

What’s in the box?

• Backrest
• Seat
• Side protection wings
• ISOFIX covers

Are there any additional accessories that you can buy?

• Seat protector

What did you think of the packaging of the Joie i-Traver car seat?

The packaging was appropriate, offering sufficient protection for the product without using an excessive amount of plastic. The box and plastic are both recyclable.

How does the Joie i-Traver car seat rate for sustainability?

When it comes to recycling, Joie notes that baby gear is challenging to recycle due to its complexity. Metals and plastics must be separated and processed individually, requiring the gear to be dismantled into its components at specialised facilities.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Joie i-Traver car seat?

Since this car seat is designed to last from ages 3 and a half to 12 years, I'd like to know which parts are easily replaceable if they get damaged. It was challenging to find this information, but a few stores mentioned that the styrofoam can be replaced, which is common for most seats.

Who would the Joie i-Traver car seat be most useful for?

As it’s lightweight and easy to transport, this is great for parents who have 2 cars and share the car seats. It's also ideal for those who rely on others for childcare and my need to quickly transport the car seats between vehicles when needed.

Is the Joie i-Traver worth the money?

At £135, it's an exceptional value compared to other premium brands offering car seats with similar features. I think it's 100% worth the money.

Where can I buy the Joie i-Traver car seat?

Available from Joie, John Lewis and Halfords.

MadeForMums verdict

It's difficult to find a flaw in this seat, particularly given that it's one of the most affordable group 2/3 car seats in the premium market. I would recommend it to other parents due to its comfort, competitive pricing, and excellent safety features.

The Discover i-Size car seat, £175, is Silver Cross’s premium high-backed booster seat suitable for children aged 4 to 12. It’s approved to the latest R129/03 safety standard for maximum safety and has a built-in Side Protection System to keep children safe in the event of a collision.

Alongside impressive safety credentials, the car seat offers multiple recline and headrest positions, as well as being made from high-quality, sustainable materials. It retails at £175, although is on offer for £125 currently, putting it at the high-end of the booster market price, alongside the Cybex Solution T i-Fix, £199.95 and Britax Romer KIDFIX i-Size, £185. It’s one of two high-back booster seats from Silver Cross; the other being the Essential Discover, £150 but currently on offer for £89, which is approved to the R44 safety standards, rather than the more recent R129 standard.

First impressions

My first impression was how heavy the box was! The current high-back booster seat we use is very lightweight and I was shocked at the weight when I picked up the Discover box. After unboxing I was instantly impressed with the quality – the padding looked really luxurious and the fabric felt very soft. I received the car seat in almond, which looked so stylish – you can tell this is a premium product straight away.

How easy is the Silver Cross Discover i-Size to install?

The trickiest part of the installation was trying to locate the instructions to start with! After taking the seat out of the box and unwrapping the plastic I couldn’t find the instruction booklet anywhere. It took a good 5 minutes to discover them on the underside of the seat – very well tucked away!

Silver Cross encourages you to download their app for instructions for a lot of their products, which I did. You’re then meant to scan the QR code on the box to take you straight to your product, but annoyingly my QR code kept showing an error message. Despite this, it was straightforward enough to find the instructions I needed on the app and installation was then very easy. Once I’d carried the car seat to my car it took less than 10 minutes to install with Isofix.

How do you install the Silver Cross Discover i-Size car seat?

The Discover i-Size can be used with a car seatbelt or with both the Isofix and seatbelt (you can check that your car is Isofix compatible on the Silver Cross website). I first tried the seat with just the seatbelt, which took no time at all.

There are green indicators on the car seat so you know exactly where the seatbelt should sit to keep your child safe and secure, and there’s a green plastic clip at the top of the seat for you to hook the belt through to keep it in place. While the seatbelt-only option was absolutely fine with my daughter using the seat, when I was driving around without a child in the seat it did rattle a little. I preferred to use the seat with Isofix as well which was very easy to do using the Isofix placers/guides included in the box. Once it was installed it felt incredibly secure and there was zero noise.

What are the key safety features of the Silver Cross Discover i-Size?

The seat is approved to the latest R129 safety standards, which immediately gave me some peace of mind. It also has a Side Protection System which cocoons your child in case of a side impact when driving. The green seatbelt indicators also make it really easy to make sure your seatbelt is sitting in the correct safety position, even at a glance. Overall the seat feels very safe – it’s weight and sturdy and definitely offers a greater level of reassurance than a more lightweight booster.

Does Silver Cross Discover i-Size have any unique features?

The Discover has adjustable thigh support, which I’ve never seen in a booster seat before. Using this with a child on the lowest end of the age range, the thigh support has been a game-changer. Usually her little legs stick out as the seat is too deep for her, but on the lowest setting the thigh support sits perfectly, finishing just behind the bend of her knee. I love that this can be adjusted as she grows. It’s very easy to do – there’s a little handle to pull underneath the seat, which is easy to access even with a child sitting in the seat.

How comfortable did your child find the Silver Cross Discover i-Size?

SO comfortable. My 4 year old loves sitting in this seat and regularly tells me how comfy it is! The padding feels very luxurious and  the extendable thigh support adds an extra level of comfort. I also like that the seat can be reclined ­– in our usual booster seat  if my daughter falls asleep on a long journey her head tends to fall forward, but the recline stops this from happening. My 7 year old also tried out the car seat and found it very comfortable too.

How well did it work with different-aged children?

I feel like this is such a great car seat for my 4-year-old as it has the scope to really grow with her. The headrest was the perfect height at the lowest setting and the thigh support was ideal at the lowest setting. While on first impressions I thought the seat would be too narrow and shallow for her, it is deceptively spacious, and she has so much space to grow into.

My 7-year-old tried out the seat for one journey and it’s clear the seat has room for him to grow into it too (if my 4-year-old would let him use it more often that is!). There are side insert cushions which you can remove to give more space as your child grows. I do wonder if the thigh support, even on its longest setting, would end up being too short for an 11/12-year-old though.

How robust does the car seat feel?

Very. This certainly feels like a car seat made to last and I can see us getting many, many years of use out of it. The materials used for the seat and padding are very high quality and the overall build feels sturdy and secure. My only concern is how well the almond shade will fare with my active and often muddy children. Perhaps the darker Cedar and Space colourways may be a better choice for parents in the same boat as me!

How easy is it to clean?

The seat covers – which are made from recycled plastic bottles – are removable and can be washed in the machine on a delicate cycle at 30 degrees using a mild detergent.  As we haven’t had the car seat long enough to get it stained or muddy just yet I can’t vouch for how well a spot clean would work, although Silver Cross does refer to this as an “easy clean” material.

How do you find it to carry around?

The car seat weighs 7.1kg and comes with the Isofix fittings attached. This seems to be fairly standard for high-backed booster seats covering this age group, however, I am used to very lightweight models like the Graco Logico L i-Size R129 car seat (3.4kg) and the Joie i-Trillo (4.43kg) so the Discover i-Size felt very weighty in comparison. It’s not really a car seat you’d want to swap between cars regularly.

How does it compare to previous Silver Cross car sets?

The Discover i-Size is the first i-Size high-back booster seat from Silver Cross. The Essential Discover booster is R44 and not i-Size.

How does the Silver Cross Discover i-Size compare with other booster seats or Group 2/3 seats you’ve used?

As mentioned earlier, I’ve used both the Graco Logico L i-Size R129 and the Joie i-Trillo boosters. These are both budget options compared to the Discover and both are very lightweight – something we were specifically looking for as often had to switch the car seats between cars. Neither of these reclines and both use seatbelt-only installation.

The difference in quality is clear, through the padding and side impact system, as well as the luxurious touch materials. While I had no issues with the safety of the other car seats we used, the Discover does seem to feel more substantial and robust. I think the only thing that lets the Discover down compared to other high-back boosters I’ve used is that there is no cup holder or option to buy one. My 4 year old loves a cup holder so this is a bit of a disappointment for her!

What’s in the box?

• Discover i-Size car seat
• Isofix plastic guides
• Instructions

What did you think of the packaging?

I really like that the packaging was minimal, yet effective. The car seat came in a large plastic bag (non-recyclable), inside a car seat-shaped cardboard box – which we were able to recycle after the kids had fun colouring it in. The Isofix plastic guides were connected with a plastic cable tie, which was also non-recyclable.

How sustainable do you think the Silver Cross Discover i-Size is?

The Discover uses what it describes as “sustainable eco fabrics” made from recycled plastic bottles. The lining is made of bamboo, which is another great sustainable material. What I really love is that Silver Cross run a car seat recycling programme, so your car seat doesn’t end up in landfill. They even come and collect it for free and state that every single part of it will be recycled. I wish more companies did this. https://www.silvercrossbaby.com/recycle-your-silver-cross-car-seat

What are the repair options for the Silver Cross Discover i-Size?

The Discover i-Size has a 2-year warranty against manufacturing faults, but if you register your product via the app you receive an additional 1-year free warranty. This is from the date of purchase and is against manufacturing faults and material defects when the product is used correctly according to the instructions. You need to keep proof of purchase

What would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Silver Cross Discover i-Size?

I would have wanted to know where to find the instructions to begin with! Also, the car seat doesn’t include a cup holder, as it’s a biggie for us, and it’s a lot weightier than other boosters we’ve used.

Who would the Silver Cross Discover i-Size be most useful for?

Anyone who is looking to invest in a high-back booster chair with serious longevity. The Discover’s adjustable headrest and thigh support, as well as the removable side cushion inserts really does make this a great choice from 4 up and it’s certainly designed to last.

Is the Silver Cross Discover i-Size worth the money?

It’s at the pricier end of the high-back booster seat market but I really do think it’s worth every penny. Everything about the Discover feels premium and it’s clearly made to last. It also ticks all the boxes for safety. It gets a massive thumbs-up from me.

Where can I buy the Silver Cross Discover i-Size car seat?

Available from Silver Cross, Amazon and John Lewis.

MadeForMums verdict

If you’re looking for a next-step high-back booster for your 4-year-old, the Discover is an excellent option if you have the budget. It offers all the safety features you’d expect or hope for, making the tradition from traditional car seat to booster feel less nerve-wracking, and has the added bonus of looking great too. With plenty of adjustable features, it’s designed to grow with your child and, although we can’t imagine our daughter using it when she’s 12, I can see us getting many years’ worth of use out of the Discover.

Offering multiple recline positions, this great-looking high-backed booster is suitable for use from around 3.5 years, up to 12, (100-150cm in height) and can be installed with minimum fuss in a matter of seconds.

Designed to grow with your child in height and width, the Rodifix Pro2 car seat meets the highest i-Size safety standards, offering excellent peace of mind. With an RRP of £169.99, it sits in the middle of the high-backed booster seat market price-wise, similar to the Cybex Solution T i-Fix, £174.95, and the Silver Cross Discover i-Size, £175. The fact that it's long-lasting and high quality makes it a worthwhile investment.

What are your first impressions of the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat?

I was really impressed with how stylish it looked and how high quality it felt. The Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat came in 2 parts but packaged in one box. Each part was wrapped in plastic, so it was not very sustainable, and there was no protective packaging to prevent the seat from being damaged in transit. Fortunately, it all arrived in good condition and after unpacking the seat it was easy to click the 2 parts together, fitting the seat to the backrest.

How easy is it to install the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat?

I managed to install the booster seat using Isofix on my own, without instructions within just a couple of minutes. A little instruction manual with pictures does come with the booster, but it’s pretty self-explanatory.

First, you need to identify the grey buttons on either side on the base of the seat, then flick the switch up, pinch the buttons and push out the Isofix bar – I found it easier to do one side at a time. Once both bars are out, you simply slot them into the Isofix on your car and push the seat back so that the back fits snugly against the seat of your car. It feels really secure and sturdy and stays in place without any wobble.

To remove the car seat, find the grey buttons on either side of the seat near the base, flick the switch up, pinch the buttons and pull the bars back to release the seat from the car’s Isofix.

How easy is it to strap your child into the car seat?

The Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat has a slot on the shoulder for the seatbelt to thread through, meaning it is positioned correctly on your child’s shoulder, for optimum safety. However, unlike some other boosters, there is no slot on the bottom on the opposite side for the seatbelt to thread through to keep it in position. I found this a little disappointing as my son is a fidgeter and I like having a top and bottom slot to keep the seatbelt positioned correctly.

I also found the shoulder slot a little tough to pull the seatbelt through. The belt got caught a couple of times after I unbuckled my son, and the slot prevented the seatbelt from retracting, causing the metal buckle to clatter against the car door leaving a few scratches. I had to keep making sure the belt had retracted fully, sometimes threading it back through the slot myself, which was a little annoying. It also made it tougher for my son to attempt to strap himself in and he needed help.

What are the main safety features of the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat?

The Rodifix Pro2 boasts of G-Cell side impact protection which is an extra built-in guard with improved 3D impact absorption to keep your child safe. The sides do feel well padded and robust but are also cushioned to provide comfort.

The booster also has AirProtect side impact technology in the headrest to provide extra protection and claims to reduce the risk of head injury by up to 20% which is really reassuring. Again, the headrest feels really strong and cushioned so while it is providing maximum protection, it is also comfortable.

I love that this isn’t just another padded booster seat and that maximum safety is what the Rodifix Pro2 is all about. Maxi-Cosi has gone to extra lengths to ensure that safety isn’t compromised anywhere with this seat and I feel really reassured that my 4-year-old son is sitting in such a safety-conscious child seat.

Does the car seat have any unique features?

One of my favourite things about the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat is that it has multiple recline positions. Most boosters on the market have just one set seating position, which means naps on the go often result in my son sleeping in a really awkward, uncomfortable position. So to be able to recline him slightly to enable him a more comfortable journey (and nap!) is a big bonus.

The seat can’t be reclined when your child is already seated (I certainly wasn’t strong enough to move the seat once my 4-year-old was sat on it) so if your child falls asleep on a long car journey, you can’t recline them to make them more comfortable – you’ll need to pre-empt the nap and recline the chair before you set off.

The seat also has ClimaFlow ventilation panels, breathable foam and fabrics, to enhance air circulation to keep your child at the right temperature. This is perfect for us. My son is somewhat of a sweaty sleeper and overheats easily. This is the only booster seat I’ve used that hasn’t caused him to wake from a car nap with his hair sticking to a clammy face. Knowing he can nap on long car journeys in comfort and safety, and not overheat, is a game-changer for me. I can’t imagine using another seat now for that reason alone.

How comfortable did your child find the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat?

My 4-year-old son had no complaints, even after a 2-hour car journey to visit his grandparents, and seemed to find it really comfortable. The whole seat is cushioned and the sides of the car seat grow with your child so when they are getting a bit bigger you can pop them out to give them a bit more space. The 3 recline positions are also great at enabling your child to find a position that feels comfiest for them.

How robust does the Rodifix Pro2 car seat feel?

The seat feels really sturdy and solid, and the fabrics feel very premium and high quality. I have no doubt the seat will last as my son grows and will probably do another turn with my second child.

How easy is it to clean?

Other than the little 2-page instruction leaflet showing you how to install the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 booster seat, there were no other instructions in the box with guidance on removing the fabric and cleaning. However, I managed to find an instruction manual online which explained how to remove the fabric and advised washing on a cool, gentle wash and to tumble dry on a low heat setting for just 10-12 minutes.

Following the instructions, and also a video I found on Youtube, made removing the seat covers pretty straightforward and the fact that they are machine washable makes the cleaning process super easy. Simply take the seat out of the car, hoover up some of the bigger crumbs, take the covers off then pop everything into the washing machine on a cool wash (I washed at 30°C and used a mild detergent).

Although the instructions say you can tumble dry, I had time to allow the covers to air dry fully before refitting. The Youtube video shows you how to refit the covers, but while it appeared easy, I found it a bit fiddly in places so it took me a lot longer to refit the covers than it did removing them. This isn’t so bad if you don't need to wash them that often, but could be a bit annoying if you are washing them regularly.

Is the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat big enough for a growing child?

The Rodifix Pro2 is suitable for children aged 3.5-12 years old, 100-150cm in height or 15-36kg in weight, and has been designed to grow with your child. The headrest is adjustable and reaches quite high (much higher than some of the other booster seats I’ve used) and unlike most other booster seats, it has adjustable side panels.

As your child gets a bit bigger and needs more space for their shoulders and arms, you can push the sides of the booster and they pop out a few more centimetres, allowing a bit more room. My son is quite tall and I have no doubt this seat will last him until he is 12, or reaches the height or weight limit.

How does the Rodifix Pro2 compare to its predecessor, the Rodifix Pro i-Size?

The Pro2 has extra padding for improved comfort and an extra wide backrest to further enhance your child’s comfort as they grow. It also comes in 5 different colour options, compared to its predecessor which only comes in authentic black. I tested the Authentic Graphite shade which I liked as it blended in nicely with my car’s interior.

How does the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 compare to other high-backed booster seats?

Although the Rodifix Pro2 isn’t the only high-backed booster seat that reclines, I think I’d personally struggle to find another reclining booster that provides the same level of extra protection and feels as solid as this seat does. A car seat that is very similar is the Cybex Solution G i-Fix car seat, £154.95-£174.95, which has a reclining headrest and one-hand recline function, as well as being stylish, super-padded and incredibly safe, but it's not one I've had the chance to test.

Compared to other child seats that I’ve used (CozyNSafe Augusta i-Size, £79.99, and Harmony Elite, now discontinued) my son seemed to find the Rodifix Pro2 the most comfortable and didn’t fall asleep in awkward positions

What’s in the box?

• Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat (in 2 pieces to be assembled)
• Instruction leaflet

Is the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat made from sustainable materials?

Yes, the seat is made from premium, 100% recycled EcoCare fabrics.

Can the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 i-Size car seat be recycled?

According to Maxi-Cosi, all of their car seats can be recycled, with Ivan McCullough, QA and product development manager, saying: "When a product has come to the end of its use, consumers can take their car seat to their local recycling centre, where they will break it down into separate components and recycle each part separately."

What are the repair options?

Maxi-Cosi offers a 24-month warranty which gives you peace of mind that you can get your booster seat repaired for free in the first 2 years after purchase. This is only valid on new purchases though, not seats bought second-hand. You will need to register your seat on their website and keep your receipt after purchase too.

Maxi-Cosi also offers a Car Seat Swap service – so if your child's seat is involved in a car accident, you can contact Maxi-Cosi, and in some circumstances, they can replace your seat with a new one. You’ll need to provide details of the accident and photographs of the seat damage, plus your purchase receipt and proof of warranty, so make sure to register your seat on their website after your purchase.

Is there anything about the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat that you don’t like?

The only thing I disliked was how tricky it was to refit the fabric to the seat after washing, although I know this isn't an issue unique to this car seat. It was fiddly and required quite a bit of patience. It’s not a deal breaker though and if, like me, you don’t allow your children to eat in the car, then I can’t imagine needing to wash the covers that often anyway.

Who would this booster seat be most suitable for?

The Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 i-Size is a great option for parents looking for a seat that has longevity and can serve a second and even a third child. It feels incredibly safe without compromising on comfort, so is the perfect choice for those who travel frequently and go on long car journeys.

Is the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 i-Size car seat worth the money?

At £169.99 (although often found on sale at a discounted price), it's certainly not the cheapest high-back booster around, but I believe it is a worthwhile investment. Just the extra safety features, plus how sturdy, strong and solid this seat feels, not to mention how comfortable it is, makes it a winner for me. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Joie i-Trillo, £75, or the Graco Junior Maxi i-Size R129 car seat, £39.99 may fit the bill.

Where can I buy the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 car seat?

It is available from Natural Baby Shower, Mamas & Papas and Winstanleys Pramworld.

How does the Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 compare to similar high-backed booster seats?

MadeForMums verdict:

The Maxi-Cosi Rodifix Pro2 i-Size car seat has been made to last and knowing that you’ll get a good number of years of use from it, makes it worth the higher price tag. The primary function of any child seat is, unarguably, safety, and this seat surpassed my expectations with its brilliant safety features, solid structure and soft, cushioned covers. The fact that it offers 3 recline positions, is made from eco-conscious, temperature-regulating materials and adjusts in height and width with your growing child, makes this a fantastic booster seat.

Available at: Cybex and Halfords

The T line is Cybex's latest range, which includes car seats that suit newborns, toddlers and children. The Cybex Solution T i-Fix, £199.95, is a stylish high-back booster, aimed at the premium end of the car seat market. With the smart looks the brand is renowned for, the T i-Fix also boasts impressive safety credentials, as an ADAC Test Winner (Oct 2023, Category from approx 4 - 12 years). The car seat is designed for children aged approximately 3 to 12, or 100cm – 150cm in height.

First impressions

My first impressions were very good. The Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat seemed very smart and sturdy when we unboxed it, as I’d expect from a more expensive car seat. I was excited to get it installed in the car and start using it.

How easy is it to assemble the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

I didn't get off to the best start as it took me ages to find the instructions! They are in a pocket at the bottom of the seat, but there was nothing saying that on the box or the seat, so it was only when I found a video on Cybex’s YouTube channel that I worked this out. It’s a handy place to keep the user guide, but it would have been useful to know where to find them when I opened the box.

Once I found the instructions it was straightforward to put it together, you just have to attach the seat to the back – again, I found Cybex’s YouTube video very useful to reassure me that I was doing it correctly.

How do you install the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

The Solution T i-Fix car seat was very simple to install into my car. To use the ISOFIX you just need to fold out the ‘arms’, and it was easy to slot into the fixings in my car – you know you've installed it correctly when you see the side indicators click to green.

This is something I’ve found awkward with other seats in the past, so I was impressed with how straightforward it was. Once it was in place, the Solution T i-Fix felt very secure and didn’t move around in the car during journeys.

You can also install the car seat just using the seatbelt, which is useful, especially if you plan on switching the seat between cars.

What are the key safety features of the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

There are 2 safety features on the Cybex seat that I really rated, and made me feel very reassured. The first is the linear side-impact protection system. These are extra ‘wings’ on either side of the seat that you pop out when you install it – Cybex claims that they increase safety if you are in an accident with side impact. The second feature is the patented reclining headrest which tilts your child’s head back slightly to prevent it from falling forward when they’re asleep, keeping it in a safer position at all times.

Does the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat have any unique features?

The reclining headrest is patented by Cybex and not something I'd seen before. I was sceptical about whether the reclining headrest would work, as with other seats my daughter’s head has often fallen forward when she fell asleep, but I was very impressed that when she fell asleep on a couple of long journeys her head did stay back.

The only issue is that you have to decide which position you want the headrest to be in, either reclining or upright. If you’re on a long journey your child is likely to be asleep some of the time and awake at others, so you have to predict when they’re likely to sleep and remember to recline it, then put it upright again next time. This is a bit fiddly, and another thing to remember when you’re setting off on a journey.

How comfortable was your child in the Solution T i-Fix car seat?

My daughter was very happy in the car seat, and keen to climb in. There's plenty of cushioning on the seat, which she said was nice and soft. She often fell asleep in it, which is a sign that she’s comfy, although not so good for danger naps!

Although we haven’t had any hot weather yet this year, the seat has a ventilation system designed to let air flow through, which I hope will help keep her cool and comfortable when it gets warmer.

How robust does the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat feel?

The car seat is solid and robust and looks great. We tested the Plus fabric option, which is textured and feels hardwearing, whilst also soft. It costs £25 more than the standard Comfort fabric and has a mesh-like material to make it more breathable – so less chance of a sweaty child during long car journeys.

How easy is the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat to clean?

Fairly easy. The covers can go in the washing machine at up to 30 degrees, which is handy. There are 5 parts to the cover that are attached to the seat with a combination of velcro, press studs and elastic bands, and I particularly like the fact that if one part of the cover gets dirty you don’t have to take off the whole thing.

My only concern is that although the textured Plus fabric seems to be hardwearing, it is harder to wipe clean than non-textured fabric, as dirt can get stuck in the waffles.

Is the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat easy to carry around?

Definitely. The car seat weighs 7.4kg, which feels light for such a sturdy, cushioned seat. It was easy enough to move in and out of the car, and for one person to carry around.

Is the Solution T i-Fix car seat big enough for a growing child?

I think so. The seat is designed to be suitable for approx. 3 – 12 year olds, and is made specifically to grow with your child. One of the features of the T i-Fix car seat is that as you move the headrest up, the seat automatically gets wider. I thought this was a great idea, and I’m hoping it’ll mean that my child still feels comfortable in it when she’s getting towards the top of the age range.

Are there any additional accessories that you can buy?

• Car Seat Cup Holder, £29.95
• Solution T-Line Summer Cover, £54.95

How does the Cybex Solution T i-Fix compare with other booster seats you’ve used?

We also have a high-backed booster that was a quarter of the price of the Cybex seat. Although they have both passed the relevant safety tests, for us the quality of the fabric, more cushioning, and the extra safety and comfort features make the Solution T i-Fix worth the additional cost, especially as it's a recent ADAC Test Winner.

What’s in the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat box?

• Solution T i-Fix Car Seat
• User guide

What did you think of the packaging?

The Solution T i-Fix car seat was wrapped in a big plastic bag secured with a plastic cable tie, inside a cardboard box. The big plastic bag felt unnecessary and we can’t recycle it, although we have recycled the cardboard box.

How sustainable is the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

I'm not sure – there is no mention of recycling or sustainability in the manual, or that I could find on the website.

Tell us about repair options if the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat breaks

The T i-Fix car seat comes with a 2-year warranty, however, Cybex says to contact whoever you bought the car seat from directly when it comes to repairs or replacement parts.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

I would have liked Cybex to have made it clearer that you have to decide whether you want the headrest in the upright or reclining position and adjust it yourself. When I first saw it was a feature of the seat I’d assumed that it automatically adjusted depending on the position of the child’s head.

I’d also like to have known where the instructions were!

Who would the Solution T i-Fix car seat be most useful for?

I'd say the target audience is a family wanting a smart-looking seat that looks good in their car, but who also value extra safety features. It’s also a good option for people whose child often falls asleep in the car and want them to be comfortable and safe, thanks to the reclining headrest. It's not the cheapest high-back booster seat on the market by any means, but it's definitely premium quality and designed to last a long time.

Is the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat worth the money?

At just under £200, this product is on the more expensive side for a car seat, but for me, it is worth the investment because of how smart it looks and the extra safety features. It has lots of useful features like height and width adjustment, reclining headrest and breathable material, which really helps to justify the higher cost. I’m also confident that it will last for many years as my child grows.

Where can I buy the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat?

Available at Cybex and Halfords.

MadeForMums verdict

I was really impressed with the Cybex Solution T i-Fix car seat, so much so I'm planning to buy a second for my other child. I felt reassured by the extra safety features, I am confident that it will last for years (it boasts a 9-year life span!) and love how smart it looks in my car. But when I buy a second seat I’ll probably stick to the regular Comfort fabric (£174.95), rather than the Plus textured one, as I think it’ll be easier to clean, even if it doesn't have the same breathability features. I’d 100% recommend the product to anyone who wants to invest in a car seat that not only prioritises safety but also looks good.

The i-Trillo is slimline and lightweight making it easy to install with a seatbelt, and if you have multiple children you can fit 3 of these in a row in the back of i-Size-approved vehicles until children reach 135cm.

First impressions

As soon as I took the Joie i-Trillo car seat out of the box, I was impressed with how stylish and high-quality it looked. The grey colour is smart and the fabric is nice and soft with good cushioning. The booster seat is also impressively compact and very lightweight, weighing just 4.4kg.

How easy is it to assemble the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

It couldn’t have been simpler really. The backrest and booster seat come separately, so you just have to click them together, then clip on the Guard Surround Safety panels. It took 5 minutes and we wouldn’t need the instructions again now it is put together.

How do you install the Joie i-Trillo booster car seat?

Once built you pop the seat in the car, sit your child in and ensure the headrest is at the right level (this is really easy to change with one hand) – the headrest should sit by their shoulders.

You then pull the seatbelt across your child, making sure it's threaded into the green clip that sits above their right shoulder. Follow the integrated seatbelt guide, which is coloured green, to ensure the seatbelt is tucked under the armrests, then push the seatbelt into the buckle.

The booster seat is not ISOFIX but it doesn’t move around once strapped in properly. That said, it is a little fiddly to get the seatbelt into the buckle and not something my son could do on his own at 4 years old.

Due to the fact it’s not ISOFIX, it is loose in the back of the car if not in use, so I'd suggest strapping it in with the seatbelt when your child is not in the seat.

What are the key safety features of the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

This car seat meets the highest ECE R129 safety standard and has i-Size certification. It also has extra side impact protection, which I appreciated. Joie also says it pushes its products to the extreme during testing.

It doesn’t have ISOFIX which has pros and cons. On the plus side, the booster seat is really easy to move between cars – ideal if you have multiple cars or you have extended family or friends wanting to take your child out. But I do find the ISOFIX feature gives me peace of mind from a safety point of view, plus it also means the car seat is fixed into the car. With the i-Trillo, you have to make sure you strap it in before setting off if your child is not in the car with you. Having said that, the safety features on offer for such an affordable price are impressive.

Does the Joie i-Trillo care seat have any unique features?

Yes – my son was very impressed with the 2 cupholders, which both tuck away into the seat base. He used them to store his flask, as well as random items he collected, including a selection of rocks from the beach!

While it wasn’t a huge plus point from our point of view, it was handy to have somewhere to put his water on a long journey where he could easily reach it. I think for some families it would be a really useful feature.

How comfortable did your child find the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

My son's previous seat was reclinable and more padded, so I was worried he would find this one too upright. He really enjoyed the booster seat day-to-day but I don’t think it was as comfortable as his old one for the 4-hour drive to Cornwall. He fell asleep on the way and the car seat supported his head well, but he looked more comfortable reclined in his previous one.

That said, the padding was adequate, the headrest was supportive and my son didn’t complain. For a booster, there has definitely been a lot of thought put into the comfort side of it.

How robust does the i-Trillo car seat feel?

From my experience with Joie products, they last well, and the i-Trillo seems to be no exception. The material is good quality and durable. For a booster seat, it feels brilliant quality and I have no doubt this is a purchase that would last years.

How easy is it to clean?

On the first outing, my son got a chocolate smear on the Joie i-Trillo car seat, which I was really pleased to see come away easily with a damp cloth. It isn’t a fabric that easily marks and the darker colour helps.

That said, I am really happy that the covers are completely removable and washable – this was easy to do and will keep the booster seat looking new for longer.

Is the Joie i-Trillo car seat easy to carry?

At 4.43kg the seat is incredibly light and really easy to move in and out of the car. It would be ideal if you have 2 cars, as it’s so easy to move from car to car. It's also brilliant if someone is taking your child out and you need to put the car seat into their car

I usually find car seats very heavy and bulky, but this one is so easily portable. A big plus point!

Is the Joie i-Trillo car seat big enough for a growing child?

The car seat is suitable for children 100-150cm in height, which is approximately 4 to 12 years. The headrest has 10 adjustable heights which are really easy to adjust with just one hand. I would say it’s easier to adjust the headrest before your child gets in though.

My son is around 110cm and it looks to last until he is out of a car seat completely.

How does the Joie i-Trillo compare to the older Trillo car seat?

the i-Trillo is the newer version of the Joie Trillo. Essentially they are the same shell but the i-Trillo meets the highest ECE R129 safety standard and has the i-Size certification. It doesn’t have ISOSAFE connectors like the Trillo.

How does the i-Trillo compare with other booster seats you've used?

My son’s previous car seat was the Cozy N Safe Morgan i-Size which does convert to a high-back booster, though we have never used it as such. The Joie i-Trillo is less comfortable being non-reclinable and less padded, but it is a different type of car seat. The Cozy n Safe Morgan i-Size is a premium car seat that is suitable from birth to approx 6 years, with a handy 360 degree rotation – however it comes with a price tag of £229 and isn't suitable as a high-back booster for older children, unlike the Joie i-Trillo.

What did you think of the packaging of the Joie i-Trillo?

The car seat came in a large cardboard box with no additional packaging. It was easy to break down and recycle, and it was nice not to have lots of packaging to get rid of.

How sustainable is the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

The fabric is made from 100% recyclable materials which come from 24 plastic bottles, which is really nice to see. Joie says creating its materials in this way reduces waste and uses less energy and resources than it would take to create a brand-new product.

The other parts of the i-Trillo booster seat are not made from recycled materials, which Joie says is due to the fact that it might compromise the safety aspect. They do say, however, that their products are built to last and designed to be used within families for years – I can definitely imagine the i-Trillo lasting for multiple children.

Joie put a big emphasis on sustainability, although they do say regretfully that their products are not currently recyclable due to their complexity of materials.  This is something that seems to be an issue with car seats in general, with only Silver Cross offering a recycling service for their car seats in the UK. However, Joie do say they are constantly re-evaluating and looking at new avenues in the hope of change in the future.

Tell us about the repair options if the Joie i-Trillo breaks?

All Joie products come with a 2-year warranty from the original date of purchase. You can also register your purchase on the Joie website to access an extended 3-year warranty. You can make a claim through their website at any point, though the warranty does not cover wear and tear, accidental damage and misuse.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

How slimline and light it is. You have to see it to really appreciate that and it's certainly a massive selling point in my eyes.

Who would the Joie i-Trillo be most useful for?

I'd say this Joie car seat would be really handy for families with multiple cars, or those who have extended family take the children out, and need a booster seat so they can move easily. It's also ideal for families with 3 children who need slimline seats to fit all 3 in the back of their car.

Is the Joie i-Trillo car seat worth the money?

Yes, at £75 (although it's widely available at a discounted price of £50 at the time of writing this review) I think it is really good value for money considering the quality. I would not hesitate to recommend it to others. It may not have the luxurious touches of some more premium booster seats like the Silver Cross Discover i-Size, £150, or Cybex Solution G i-Fix, £174.95, but at less than half the price it packs in plenty of safety features and offers padding and comfort for your child.

Where can I buy the Joie i-Trillo car seat?

Available from John Lewis, Mamas & Papas and Argos.

MadeForMums verdict

The Joie i-Trillo car seat is a great buy for someone looking for a lightweight and compact booster seat that should last their child years. It is slimline, perfect for tighter space in the back of the car, and well-made and comfortable. The lack of ISOFIX comes with pros and cons, but that comes down to individual requirements and needs. For the pure convenience of switching between cars, the i-Trillo is worth every penny.