In its most recent test, *Stiftung Warentest* rated 22 new and improved models of car seats for children. Car seats by Maxi-Cosi excelled in each age category, with a significant 4 star top rating for the improved Maxi-Cosi Tobi toddler seat, which even outperformed some other brands of Isofix* seats.
The independent test verdict is clear: “One of the best non-Isofix (belt-fixed) child car seats for children from 9 to 18 kg (9 months to around 3,5 years), the Maxi-Cosi Tobi convincingly passed every aspect of the safety test. Being able to adjust the harness in height without having to take out the harness belt, is a major advantage.”
Test focus on avoiding car seat misuse
*Stiftung Warentest* rates on how easy a car seat is to use and install. A correct installation is vital to prevent injuries in a crash. If a car seat is fitted incorrectly due to poor instructions or a tricky design, it will not offer the necessary protection and could possibly endanger a child’s life.
Maxi-Cosi Tobi performed well in the frontal and side impact tests. *Stiftung Warentest* pointed out the easy, one-pull action to adjust the height of the headrest and harness simultaneously. But the Maxi-Cosi Tobi’s easy-out harness and an indicator to clearly confirm the correct fit of the harness scored equally well in terms of comfort and ease of use.
Overall brand winner
The June 2009 test included new and improved models of car seats. However, none of the newly tested seats were able to beat the results of previous tests. Car seats by Maxi-Cosi are still rated the best in each age category, in the belt-fixed seat category as well as Isofix-based seat category.
The Maxi-Cosi CabrioFix (0-13 kg) with EasyFix base is still unrivalled as the very best 5 star rated infant car seat to date.
Unmatched in safety and ease of use, the Maxi-Cosi PrioriFix (9-18 kg) maintains its 4 star rating as the best IsoFix seat in this age category.
The Maxi-Cosi Rodi XR (9-18 kg). This lightweight seat excels in seating comfort for children from 3 to 12 years and offers the best value for money in this age category.
