TOP 22 best crash test car seats: 2024-2025 safety rating and which one to choose for a child

For safety, all children from birth to 12 years of age must be transported in a car using a special restraint device - a car seat.

And the requirements for car seats are very high, they must regularly undergo various crash tests and certification.

In this article, we will describe the basic principles for choosing a reliable car seat and the most popular models for 2024-2025 in terms of price / quality ratio.

The rating was compiled on the basis of testing, expert assessments and customer reviews, taking into account the advantages and disadvantages.

Rating of the TOP-22 best car seats according to crash tests in 2024-2025

Place	Name	Price
TOP 4 best car seats according to ADAC crash tests
1	Maxi Cosi Toby
2	BRITAX ROMER Kid II
3	BRITAX ROMER King II LS
4	Recaro Monza Nova 2
TOP 3 best car seats by price/quality for 2024-2025
1	BRITAX ROMER Kidfix SL
2	Recaro Monza Nova IS Seatfix
3	Heyner MaxiProtect Aero SP
TOP 3 best inexpensive child car seats
1	Siger Cocoon-Isofix
2	Zlatek Atlantic
3	Capella S12310
TOP 3 best car seats for newborns 0+
1	BRITAX ROMER Baby-Safe Plus II SHR
2	CBX by Cybex Aton Basic
3	Peg-Perego Primo Viaggio Tri-Fix SL
TOP 3 best car seats ? from 9 to 25 kg for children from one year to 7 years
1	BRITAX ROMER Trifix2 i-Size
2	carmate swing moon
3	Siger Cocoon
TOP 3 best car seats 1/2/3 from 9 to 36 kg for children under 12
1	Capella S12312i Isofix (SPS)
2	BRITAX ROMER Evolva 1-2-3 SL SICT Isofix
3	Siger Cosmo
TOP 3 best car seats 2/3 from 15 to 36 kg from 3 to 12 years
1	Capella S2311 I-FIX
2	Peg-Perego Viaggio 2-3 Surefix
3	RANT Macro

How to choose a child car seat?

When buying a child car seat, consider the main selection parameters:

1. Child's weight/age. The chair should fit the baby's build, take into account his height, physical characteristics.
2. Safety. It is better if the model has good scores based on the results of testing various clubs with significant authority.
3. Price. Here, focus on your financial capabilities, the choice of models for each budget is large.
4. Mount type. The easiest and most affordable - when using standard belts. The most reliable is Isofix. It consists of two parts, one of which is in the seat of the car, and the second in the chair itself. There is also the Latch system, characteristic of the American auto industry. In this case, fixation is carried out using special straps with locks or hooks, the seat is attached to the car body.
5. Equipment. It can be an additional pillow for the head or seat, a sunshade, a cup holder, internal belts.
6. Adjustment. Indicates the future comfort of the passenger. The tilt of the back allows you to sleep while moving, the height of the headboard will provide comfort as the child grows.

TOP 4 best car seats according to ADAC crash tests

Maxi Cosi Toby

Car seat model from the first group, tested by the ADAC club in 2015 and well rated.

The range of rich colors, chair upholstery made of soft fabric, plain. All textiles are removed, not afraid of the washing machine. The car seat is suitable for children weighing from nine to eighteen kilograms, the seat is high and the baby can enjoy the view from the window while driving.

The car seat is firmly fixed to the car seat with standard belts, and does not slip around the cabin during heavy braking. There are internal straps with soft pads that eliminate pressure on the child's body.

The chair can withstand a side impact well.

The car seat is suitable not only for urban travel, but also for long distances due to the anatomical cushion and adjustable backrest (five levels, including the lying position).

You can also adjust the height of the headrest, according to the height of the child.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first, from 9 to 18 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 8.9 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

BRITAX ROMER Kid II

Child car seat for children over three years old or weighing over 15 kg. Has no internal straps the child is held by a car belt, with the help of his chair and attached to the seat.

The car seat weighs five kilograms.

Due to its low weight and easy installation procedure, this model is considered an excellent option for a family with several cars, when the child is transported by both parents.

The headrest and backrest have an anatomical shape, so the baby is comfortable in the chair even after several hours.

By the way, the belt guides automatically change their position when the headrest is raised, you do not need to switch anything yourself. High armrests, soft sidewalls extinguish a large impact force in a collision.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 5.1 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

BRITAX ROMER King II LS

Attractive car seat for a child weighing from 9 to 18 kg, passed in 2015 tested by the ADAC club and in the same year received the "Parents' Choice" award.

Its distinguishing feature is a sound and light signal, indicating the correct fixation of the child with internal five-point belts. The car seat itself is installed on the car seat with the help of standard belts.

Anatomical headrest, soft back and seat, soft sidewalls are ideal for safe and comfortable transportation of the baby, even over long distances.

The back of the car seat switches to a horizontal position, so you can sleep in the chair. The interior belts also have automatic retensioning when the head restraint is raised.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first, from 9 to 18 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 10.3 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Recaro Monza Nova 2

You can transport a child aged 3 to 12 comfortably and safely with this models.

In 2013, she received a "good" rating from ADAC testing. In the soft sidewalls, additional pillows are installed that absorb the force of impact, protecting the legs and hips of the baby in an accident.

The car seat is attached to the seat of your car either using the Isofix system or standard straps..

The model has no internal straps. The soft headrest has an anatomical shape and eleven heights, with automatic tensioning of the guide belts.

Soft, breathable fabric is used for the upholstery, and the RECARO ACS ventilation system will be a real lifesaver in hot weather..

And the car seat is equipped with built-in speakers, you can connect any audio device via a 3.5 mm jack.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 6.5 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2013/good.

TOP 3 best car seats by price/quality for 2024-2025

BRITAX ROMER Kidfix SL

Car seat model with two mounting options. The device is fixed by standard car belts or the Latch system, which is often found in American transport. The chair is installed on the back or front seat, facing the movement.

There are no internal straps, when the headrest is raised, the tension of the guide belts is automatically adjusted.

The car seat has soft upholstery, textiles can be removed for washing, small dirt can be easily removed with wet wipes or a brush.

Thanks to the additional cushions in the soft sidewalls, the chair received a good rating from experts in 2015.

The classic design of the car seat will fit perfectly into any interior, and the bright colors of the available colors will appeal to any child.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 6.42 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Recaro Monza Nova IS Seatfix

Universal car seat that can faithfully serve your child long years.

The chair is suitable for children weighing from 9 to 36 kg, which means that it can be used from eight months to 12 years.

All textiles are removed for washing, there are no internal belts, the small passenger is held by standard belts equipped with special guides that are pulled under the height of the headrest.

The chair itself is attached to the seat either with the Isofix system or standard straps. The fixation is reliable, with a sharp movement of a jerk, the child will not even feel it.

Additionally, the package includes a safety table for babies of the first group, and speakers are built into the chair itself, so you can connect a phone or tablet to captivate a child on a long trip with a cartoon.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first-third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 7.7 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2013/good.

Heyner MaxiProtect Aero SP

This car seat has become a new word in the comfortable and safe transportation of children to the second and third age group.

In 2015, experts gave this chair a good rating, evaluating the wide back and seat, as well as the anatomical headrest with 11 height levels. And the chair has a good price and light weight.

The car seat is easily rearranged between cars, fastened with regular straps.

The plastic case has additional stiffening ribs, they provide additional reliability of the structure. The upholstery is soft and breathable fabric, the cover can be easily removed.

In places where the car seat comes into contact with the skin of the child, the manufacturer applies velvety inserts that do not rub or cause irritation..

And if your child has grown up and refuses to ride in a chair, the back of the car seat is removed and it turns into a booster with high armrests.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 6.9 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

TOP 3 best inexpensive child car seats

Siger Cocoon-Isofix

Budget car seat for children of the first and second age groups, which differs not only soft and deep back, but also bright colors.

The chair weighs 7.7 kg and is fixed on the seat with the Isofix system, which prevents the device from moving when empty.

The backrest has six positions of inclination, there are internal five-point belts with soft pads that protect the child's body from excessive pressure or chafing.

The manufacturer took care of protection against side impacts and strengthened the main structure with additional stiffeners.

Thanks to the high and soft seat, the child has a great view from the window, and he can easily withstand long trips over long distances..

The chair can be installed both in the front and in the back seat, facing the movement.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first and second, from 9 to 25 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 7.7 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Zlatek Atlantic

Child car seat model for all three age groups, i.e. can be used from eight months to 12 years.

The range is available in several color schemes with a pattern that will appeal to both boys and girls.

The chair is equipped with internal five-point harnesses with soft pads on the shoulders and abdomen.. The chair is fixed to the seat of the car with standard belts.

A deep and soft headrest with a high anatomical seat cushion provides comfortable accommodation for a child of any age. It will be comfortable for a small passenger during long trips.

The chair is upholstered with strong and durable textiles, the cover is removed for washing or replacement.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from the first to the third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 4.5 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Capella S12310

Another car seat option for children who weigh 9-36 kg. The manufacturer himself recommends using this model for babies from one year old.

The car seat is tightly fixed to the seat with regular straps, those parts that come into contact with the passenger compartment or skin are upholstered with soft textiles.

Of the main advantages - the backrest tilt and the height of the headrest are adjustable, it is convenient not only to sit in the chair, but also to sleep, so it can be used for long trips.

Additionally, an anatomical pillow is installed, of sufficient height.

The textile cover is removable for washing, there are internal belts, five-point, with soft pads on the stomach and shoulders.

The fabric used is wear-resistant, breathable, the child will not sweat in the chair in the summer, in the absence of air conditioning.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from the first to the third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 5.1 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2014/good.

TOP 3 best car seats for newborns 0+

BRITAX ROMER Baby-Safe Plus II SHR

Functional car seat for newborn babies that perfectly copes with three tasks: ensures safety when transported in a car, is installed on a stroller using a special adapter and acts as a carrier if you go to visit or a clinic.

The chair is attached to the car seat with standard belts, it can be used from birth until the moment when the child's weight reaches 13 kg.

Inside the car seat, the baby is fixed with internal five-point harnesses with soft pads on the stomach and shoulders..

Their length, as well as the inclination of the backrest is adjustable. The model has a rounded base, due to which the baby can be shaken. The package includes a hood-awning from the sun, light rain or wind.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from birth to 13 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 4.7 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

CBX by Cybex Aton Basic

This car seat compares favorably with the previous model with less weight, so even fragile a girl can easily use this device as a carrier.

The complete set of the car seat is complemented by an awning from the sun and a pillow supporting the head of a newborn. The backrest is tilt-adjustable, the base is rounded, the child can be put to sleep in the chair, slightly rocking the structure.

The model is designed to be mounted backwards, fastened to the passenger compartment with car belts..

The manufacturer also installed internal straps with three points of support and soft pads.

The car seat is compatible with several types of strollers of the same company, installed using a special adapter.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from birth to 13 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 2.9 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, three-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2016/good.

Peg-Perego Primo Viaggio Tri-Fix SL

This model from Peg-Perego also applies to car seats for children with birth and weighing up to 13 kg.

The design can be used as a car seat (fastened with straps or on a branded base), as a travel carrier or a compact cradle for a stroller from the Peg-Perego brand.

Cover made of dense textiles in attractive colors is removable for washing, there is a wide awning visor for protection from the sun.

The car seat has a rounded rocking base, a comfortable anatomical cushion and a small cushion at the head to support the baby's head.

The height of the headrest is adjustable, at the same time the tension of the internal three-point belts is automatically adjusted.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from birth to 13 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 3.8 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, three-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2013/very good.

TOP 3 best car seats ? from 9 to 25 kg for children from one year to 7 years

BRITAX ROMER Trifix2 i-Size

Massive car seat for children of the first and second age group, with removable cover made of durable textile and side impact protection due to an additional layer of impact-absorbing material in the high sidewalls.

The seat is soft, equipped with an anatomical cushion and high enough for the child to look out the window.

The seat is fastened with the Isofix system, it does not slip around the cabin during sharp turns, even if there is no child in the device.

The inclination of the backrest and the height of the headrest are adjustable; inside the model, the baby is fixed with five-point straps with elastic and soft pads. The chair was tested in 2018 and received a good assessment from experts.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first and second, from 9 to 25 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 10.5 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2018/good.

carmate swing moon

Reliable car seat for the baby of the first and second age group from a well-known brand. Available in black, white and red, to be fixed to the car seat due to car belts, can be installed on both the front and rear seats.

The weight of the structure is 8 kg, the model has a comfortable bend of the armrests and good protection against side impacts.

A small passenger feels comfortable in this chair due to the high and soft seat, curved backrest with adjustable tilt. The height of the headrest can also be adjusted to the height of the baby.

To the chair, the baby is fastened with internal belts with five points.

The model is popular among buyers due to easy installation and build quality with additional stiffening ribs.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first and second, from 9 to 25 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 8 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2017/good.

Siger Cocoon

Model from Siger, which is designed for children weighing from 9 to 25 kg. By the armchair upholstery in bright colors, with an attractive floral print.

The seat is soft and high, does not prevent the baby from admiring the view in the car window.

The low price will also be a nice bonus, the model is suitable for any wallet..

In the interior of the car, the seat is fastened with car belts, the device is installed on the back or front seat.

The weight is relatively small, about 7 kg, so moving the device to another salon is quite simple..

The cover is removable for washing, the inner straps have five fixation points and soft, elastic lining.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the first and second, from 9 to 25 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 6.8 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

TOP 3 best car seats 1/2/3 from 9 to 36 kg for children under 12

Capella S12312i Isofix (SPS)

Confident Isofix Restraint Model. It is possible to choose the color you like from four possible ones, the calm design will easily fit into any car interior.

The chair is universal, suitable for long-term use, up to 12 years.

A high seat with an anatomical cushion allows you to firmly secure the baby with internal five-point or standard three-point harnesses, and the view from the window is in full view.

If your car does not support Isofix mounts, the seat can also be fixed with car seat belts..

Suitable for rear and front seats, the comfortable headrest has five height positions, and the backrest has four modes. You can also sleep in the chair, so it is often used on long trips.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from the first to the third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 10.5 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2017/good.

BRITAX ROMER Evolva 1-2-3 SL SICT Isofix

Another car seat model for three age groups at the same time and with two types of fastening - car belts and Isofix system.

And the weight of the model is two kilograms less than that of the previous participant in the rating. The inner five-point harness can be removed when it gets in the way of the child and can be fixed with the car seat belt.

The back of the chair is deep and wide, even a large child will feel very comfortable..

The model has an adjustable headrest height, an anatomically shaped seat cushion and high enough so that the child does not look out the side door. The device is installed only facing forward, in the front or rear seat.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from the first to the third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 8.6 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Siger Cosmo

Roomy chair for children aged from one to 12 years, with a high back, the width of which is quite suitable for a large child.

The backrest has three levels of inclination, the height of the headrest is also adjustable.

The seat is attached to the car seat with car belts, for additional safety, you can also use five-point internal straps, which have elastic pads that reduce the load on the baby’s body during a sharp jerk due to braking.

They are adjusted according to the age group of the child..

An additional layer is installed in the soft sidewalls, which will absorb the impact in a side collision.

The manufacturer uses breathable fabric, so even in summer the back of a small passenger remains dry.

Well, the optimal height of the seat will not hurt to keep a vigilant eye on what is happening outside the window.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - from the first to the third, from 9 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 7.7 kg.
3. Internal straps - yes, five-point.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

TOP 3 best car seats 2/3 from 15 to 36 kg from 3 to 12 years

Capella S2311 I-FIX

The popular brand Capella produces reliable devices for children of different ages. groups.

This model is suitable for kids aged three to 12, both for short trips and for traveling long distances.

The seat is fastened with the Isofix system or standard belts, so it can also be installed on the front seat.

The model does not have internal safety straps, but the baby is protected from side impacts.

This chair has become one of the top sellers for the period 2024-2025 due to its wide functionality.

The parent can independently adjust the width of the seat, the height of the headrest and the angle of the backrest. Therefore, the model is popular with those who like to sleep while driving, and with large kids.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 8.4 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2015/good.

Peg-Perego Viaggio 2-3 Surefix

If you are the owner of an American car with a Latch mounting system, then this model Peg-Perego baby car seat is a great option.

Additionally, you can fix the device with ordinary car belts. Note that the chair weighs less than five and a half kilograms, so this model is good for regular use for several cars.

The armchair was tested by the ADAC club in 2017 and was rated “good”.

The device is available in brown, black and red, the design is strict and concise, without flashy inserts. And there are also high and comfortable armrests, on which it is convenient for the baby to lean. Anatomical cushion and cup holder included.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 5.3 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2017/good.

RANT Macro

Amazingly lightweight restraint, weighing less than three kilograms. It is used for children from three to 12 years old, fixed on the seat with car belts.

The seat has a soft anatomical cushion, the baby is comfortable to sit for a long time. The height of the headrest is adjustable while automatically tightening the belt guides.

Another advantage of this model is that the chair, if necessary, can be easily transformed into a booster due to the removable backrest.

High sidewalls and armrests protect the baby's legs and hips from impact.

The chair was tested in 2018 and was recognized as a safe device for transporting children of the second and third age groups.

Main characteristics:

1. Group - the second and third, from 15 to 36 kg.
2. The weight of the structure is 2.8 kg.
3. Internal straps - no.
4. Crash test results (year/grade) - 2018/good.

What crash test sources were used to compile the rating?

We took testing from the German club ADAC as the main authoritative source. It is on its result that parents are most often oriented. Club experts check each device according to several criteria.

Passenger safety is checked during traffic and accidents, the comfort of the child during long trips, ease of installation and use, and whether the manufacturer adds harmful substances to the materials.

Similar research is being conducted by the ANWB club from the Netherlands. The activities of the European club WARENTEST also coincide with ADAC, the test results are published in the magazine.Finland also has a separate club - the Autoliitto society explores the same parameters as the Germans.

Which firm to choose?

The most famous and reliable car seats are the models of the following manufacturers:

• Britax Romer - German manufacturer, which is considered one of the best in its segment. It produces extremely reliable and safe devices that pass many tests.
• Chicco is an Italian brand specializing not only in children's furniture, but also in restraints. High quality materials are used, firmly fixed, equipped with anatomical pillows.
• Cybex is another company from Germany with an attractive design and construction safety, which is confirmed by various crash tests.
• Maxi Cosi - a brand from Holland with a secure fit for children and reinforced side protection.
• Peg Perego is an Italian manufacturer with a wide range for all age groups. Products have reinforced side protection, comfortable and practical removable covers, adjustable backrest.

Types of car seats

Child car seats differ in age groups, among which the main ones are:

• 0+ - models used from birth and up to 13 kg often serve not only as chairs, but also as carriers or cradles for strollers, which is especially useful when traveling;
• first group – car seats from 9 to 18 kg, with adjustable backrest;
• second group - car seats from 15 to 25 kg, always with adjustable inner belts and headrest, optionally with backrest tilt;
• third group – car seats from 25 to 36 kg (or up to 12 years), the highest and widest models.

When choosing, it should be borne in mind that the manufacturer often combines different age groups, thereby increasing the life of the device..

And among the third age group (or the second or third), there are car seats with removable backs that are used as a booster.

Customer Reviews

Useful video

From the video you will find an overview of the best crash test car seats: