The SLimFit is similar to the Extend2Fit in scoring, with a slight edge for installation using LATCH. The 4Ever has the best crash test results in the group and a higher overall score thanks to impressive ease of use and installation using LATCH. Frankly, any of the graco convertible car seat three Gracos are sure to please, and which is right for you is likely a personal decision based on goals and needs. The Extend2Fit splits the bill between the other Gracos we tested with a width and weight right in the middle, like a seat made for Goldielocks.
A front passenger would struggle for leg room if using the car seat in rear facing position. We have a larger estate vehicle, but for long journeys with lots of luggage (and two dogs), it was still a squeeze. The sheer size of the Enhance is expected for a car seat that lasts around 7 years, but for a 6-month-old baby it felt big. We mention this because 4 year olds do not ever belong in high back booster seats and yet the 4Ever’s manual lists 4 as the minimum age to use the 4Ever in booster mode. When this car seat is installed on the plus one or jump seat of a minivan, Graco has confirmed up to 20% of the base can overhang the edge of the vehicle seat while in harness mode. In booster mode, the entire base must be in contact with the vehicle seat.
There are many resources online that can provide both general installation tips and specific advice for your particular seat; we like The Car Seat Lady and Car Seats for the Littles. Safe Kids Worldwide provides information on how you can find a Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST) in your area, so you can get your seat installed correctly, and learn how to do it yourself the next time. The Safe Kids Worldwide website also provides schedules of free car seat check events and locations of inspection stations. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to get a free car seat install or check by your local fire or police department (often by appointment only).
The convertible car seats are subjected to more than 45 individual tests to evaluate their performance. The most important rating is the crash test analysis score based on the crash test results from MGA, corresponding to 35% of the overall score. We use the head and chest sensor data recorded by the crash test dummies in each seat to reach our conclusions for this metric.
As the name implies, a convertible car seat is designed to evolve as your child grows. Once you transition to the convertible seat, you’ll start out with a baby or toddler sitting in it rear-facing and eventually end up with a much bigger kid riding in it forward-facing. Whatever seat you choose, we’ve also included plenty of helpful tips on how to navigate the road ahead.