I'll give you the kiddos stats, first:
DD#1: 3 years old (just), 33 lbs, 38 inches tall; currently in her bigger sister's Britax, which is expiring
DD#2: 5 months old, 18lbs, 27 inches tall; currently in a Graco baby bucket
We're driving a 2008 Kia Sedona, with the two carseat riders in the middle row, captain's chairs
We've been looking at & reading about new carseats & are having a hard time deciding. We tried some seats out yesterday & liked the Britax Frontier for DD1; it seemed roomy & I like that the harness straps don't have to be rethreaded as she grows taller. We've read that some people have troubles with the installation, but found that it's probably due to not reading & following the instructions properly. DD1 tried several seats yesterday & liked this the best; she does, however, HATE being strapped in & will complain for the first 2-10 minutes of every single car trip that it's "too tight!" So she's not going to be truly happy in any carseat, but too bad for her. I also liked the Graco Nautilus, which is quite a bit less expensive than the Britax but only harnesses until 65 lbs, as opposed to 80 with the Frontier. I've just found the SafeGuard Child Seat, too, and the one looks awesome but doesn't move into a booster after the harness limits have been exceeded.
For DD2, I liked the Recaro Como. She looked very snug & safe. I was reading last night, however, that for chunkier kids it's not so comfy. My littlest one is quite a chunky nugget, so I worry that she'll get uncomfortable. I also would prefer a seat that top tethers when rear facing; the Recaro does not. But I found a great price for this seat, which is really the only thing keeping me interested in it.
We also looked at the Sunshine Kids Radian80 for DD1 and DD2, but it seemed so uncomfortable; not nearly as soft & cozy as the others. Does anyone have kiddos in this one that think it's uncomfortable? It seems quite narrow; how does it fit fluffier kids? It also doesn't have the side impact wings, but I saw that they're introducing the Radian XT, which does have the side impact protection. Is it wise to purchase a carseat model that's only just been introduced?
So I've read too many Amazon reviews and manufacturer testimonials; I'm almost cross eyed. Any advice for a momma ready to make a decision already?! I know I may get a chorus of Britax believers, but I'd really like some personal experience info about the others I'm looking at, too, fingers crossed.
Thanks, mommas!