Toyota Matrix

[mommaof2]

I need to graduate my large 8 month old to a convertable seat and need something that will fit behind the passenger seat of my Toyota Matrix. I bought a Alpha Omega Elite/Luxe Deluxe 3-in-1 from BRU and I couldn't fit in the frount seat (I'm 5'9. My husband is 6'4 so I need something much smaller if he's ever to ride while I drive).
I've done some research, but am overwelmed with all the options. I'd like something that I'll be able to use as long as possible (I'd like to get to as close to the 100lb limit as poss.), and to spend around $150 or less. What are my options?

[MnMadhouse]

Personally, I would avoid the 3-in-1 seats. You WANT to keep your child RFing for as long as possible AND keep them harnessed for as long as possible.

In that price range, the first seat that comes to mind is the Evenflo Triumph Advance. It will RF to 35lbs and FF to 50lbs in a harness. When your child outgrows that seat, then take a look at his/her age and weight and maturity level, then determine if they are ready for a booster. I have found that the Evenflo Triumph Advance *seems* a little taller than the Britax Marathon. Try that in your vehicle. Also, you do not have to have that full 45 degree recline that is required for newborns. Since your child likely has head control, you can have up to 30 degree angle and as long as their head isn't flopping forward while sleeping, then you have the right angle!

	Forward Facing Car Seats A forward-facing car seat is one in which the child sits facing the front of the car. The seat should be installed in the back seat of your vehicle. Most forward-facing only seats are for children above 20 pounds.

	Britax - Click for more info Britax International has been producing reliable child safety products for over 30 years. Not only does Britax have decades of experience creating car seats and other children's safety equipment, Britax has a long standing reputation as an industry leader and innovator. Britax International is headquartered in the United Kingdom, but Britax car seats are designed and manufactured at facilities in Germany, Austria, and the United States. In the summer of 2002, Britax strengthened their commitment to creating the safest car seats with the opening of a brand new, state-of-the-art crash testing facility in North Carolina. Britax car seats have a reputation around the world for being some of the safest, most reliable, and best designed child safety seats ever made.

	Rear Facing Car Seats A rear-facing seat is one in which the infant faces the back of the car. Always install a rear-facing seat in the back seat of your car. This is the safest position for an infant. NEVER place a rear-facing seat in the front seat of a vehicle with passenger airbags.

	Booster Seat A booster seat raises your child up so that the car's lap and shoulder belts fit correctly. The lap belt should fall across the upper thighs. The shoulder belt should go across the middle of the shoulder and chest. A booster seat is used for older children up to about 80 pounds. Some states have passed laws requiring booster seats for children up to age 8 or 80 pounds. Check your state's law.

	Britax Marathon - Click for more info Increasing the time a child can safely stay in their convertible car seat is a big issue and Britax engineers have come through in a big way with the introduction of the Britax Marathon with LATCH. A LATCH Compatible Convertible Child Seat, the Britax Marathon can be used rear facing 5 to 33 pounds and forward facing from 20 to 65 pounds. Compare the numbers and you will see it is hard to find a seat with these weight limits that is safe and functional.