Help! Can carseat go in the center rear seat of our new car??

[g1111]

We are in the process of buying a new car and are deciding between the 2004 models of the Acura tl, BMW 325I and Lexus IS300. The infant car seat we want to buy is the graco snugride (w/base), followed by the Britax Roundabout (to use FF). Does anyone know whether either or both of these carseats fit securely in any of the aforementioned cars in the middle, rear seat using the LATCH system?

Thanks in advance.

[Momof3Labs]

A few things:

First of all, you'll probably need to use the Roundabout rear-facing, too, since most babies outgrow their infant seats long before they are old enough and big enough to face forward.

Second of all, you need to check each of these vehicles to see if they have a set of LATCH hooks in the bight of the seat for the middle position. If there are only four hooks in the entire back seat, the answer is probably no. But you can double-check the owners' manual to see if there is a center LATCH position.

Finally, have you checked the compatibility database at www.carseatdata.org? The newer car models may not be listed, but you can see what the experience of other model years has been.

[kijip]

You can always use the center seatbelt to install if you don't have center LATCH. Also, unless you have a very small baby, you will most likely be legally required to have the RA (or whatever seat you use) rearfacing at first. The later of 20 lbs or one year at the very minimum. The RA can rear face until 33 pounds and I think the AAP reccomends keeping infants rearfacing until the limits of the seat.

The SnugRide works in most vehicles so you should be fine there. And the RA is super easy to install so it is a good pick! Good luck!