Top 10: Child car seats under £250

2

Cybex Solution Z-Fix

The Solution Z-Fix is one of the most expensive Group 2/3 car seats around. However, that quality does shine through, not just in the seat itself and the quality of the fabrics, but in the features. The reclining headrest is a simple but brilliant idea which makes this stand out from other car seats. That in itself would be enough to recommend the Solution Z-Fix highly, but there's also the clever height adjustment, the comfortable fabric and the side impact system.

Considering this seat will last your child nine years, it seems a worthwhile investment, especially as it feels built to last. If you want the best Group 2/3 car seat Cybex offers, this is it. And it's one that should last until your not so little one has grown up and no longer needs a car seat.

>> Read our full review

4

Joie Stages Group 0+/1/2 Car Seat

The Joie Stages Isofix is designed to be used from birth right up to around seven years old thanks to the way it converts. Being a Group 0+/1/2 seat makes it a rarity among child car seats - most only go from birth to 4 years old.

It starts off as a rearward-facing seat for little ones up to 18kg, then converts into a forward facing seat for 9kg to 25kg children and can then be used as a group 2 booster. It may be at the expensive end of car seats, but the only other seat we could find that offers similar is the Diono Radian 5. While that's cheaper, it's not i-Size compliant and doesn't have Isofix. 

>> Read our review

6

Joie Spin 360 Group 0+/1

At £250 the Joie Spin 360 is great value for money. It doesn't have all the features of rivals, for instance there,'s no rebound bar, but the seat itself has a top quality and, more importantly, sturdy feel to it. The fact it's a bit lighter means it's easier to move between cars, although like most of these swivelling seats, it's not something you'll want to keep doing as getting any seat into Isofix points can be fiddly.

It looks even more seat for your money when you take into account the fact it can be used from birth until around four-years-old, although it's always best to go on the 18kg weight limit as age is always just a guideline. The easy swivelling action, sturdy handles and metal seat belt buckle give the Joie a reassuringly quality and safe feel. It's no budget model either with plenty of features like a ventilated base and plenty of recline position.

>> Read our full review

8

Maxi-Cosi Tobi Group 1

A seat with many positive Amazon reviews and also currently wearing a healthy discount, the Tobi is another strong showing from Maxi-Cosi. Available from £138 upwards depending on where you buy it from adn the colour you choose, the Tobi secures via your car’s seatbelt but has a belt tensioner to ensure security.

Another smart feature is the spring-loaded harness which stays open until it is secured, and there are five reclining positions to allow comfortable rest for your child.

10

Britax Romer Duo Plus Group 1

Currently discounted to £130, the Britax Romer Duo Plus is a Group 1 seat suitable for children between 9kg and 18kg, and usefully also fits in your car via the standard three-point seatbelt or ideally Isofix.

Your little one will be comfortable thanks to the multi-position recline function and substantial side bolsters, while safety is promised by a five-point harness and a pivot system designed to reduce forward movement in the event of an impact.