Choosing the right car seat for compact cars can be challenging. Our 2019 car seat ratings simplify this task.
Finding a car seat that fits your small car and keeps your child safe is crucial. In this blog post, we review the best and easiest car seats for compact cars in 2019. From the Safety 1st Crosstown Slim to the Graco TriRide 3-in-1, these options offer safety, comfort, and convenience.
Whether you need a lightweight model like the Cosco Kids MightyFit or a versatile seat like the Graco Extend2Fit, we’ve got you covered. Each seat on our list ensures your child’s safety while fitting perfectly in your compact car. Read on to find the ideal car seat for your needs.
Safety 1st Crosstown Slim All-in-one Convertible Car Seat

The Safety 1st Crosstown Slim All-in-One Convertible Car Seat in City Storm is an ideal choice for parents seeking a versatile and reliable car seat. This car seat is designed to grow with your child, providing a secure and comfortable fit through various stages of development.
Pros:
- All-in-One Convertible design accommodates children from infancy to toddlerhood.
- Slim profile makes it suitable for smaller cars.
- City Storm color offers a modern and stylish look.
- Lightweight at only 14.0 pounds for easy installation and portability.
Cons:
- Dimensions may be tight for larger vehicles.
- Limited color options available.
The Safety 1st Crosstown Slim All-in-One Convertible Car Seat is designed with safety and comfort in mind. Its convertible design allows it to transition from a rear-facing seat for infants to a forward-facing seat for toddlers, and finally to a belt-positioning booster for older children. This ensures that parents get the most out of their investment as the car seat adapts to their growing child’s needs.
One of the standout features of this car seat is its slim profile, making it an excellent choice for families with smaller vehicles or those needing to fit multiple car seats in the back seat. Additionally, the City Storm color provides a sleek and modern appearance, while the lightweight design ensures that the car seat can be easily moved between vehicles if necessary. However, potential buyers should consider the car seat’s dimensions to ensure it fits well in their vehicle, and the limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
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Cosco Kids™ Mightyfit™ Lx Convertible Car Seat

The Cosco Kids™ MightyFit™ LX Convertible Car Seat, Canyon is a versatile and affordable car seat designed to grow with your child. With its compact design, it fits perfectly in smaller cars while still providing the safety and comfort your little one needs. The seat is designed by Dorel Juvenile Group, a trusted name in child safety equipment.
Pros:
- Compact design fits in smaller vehicles
- Affordable pricing
- Designed by a trusted manufacturer, Dorel Juvenile Group
- Convertible for extended use as your child grows
- Attractive Canyon color
Cons:
- Limited padding compared to premium models
- Installation can be a bit tricky
- Not as many reclining positions as higher-end seats
The Cosco Kids™ MightyFit™ LX Convertible Car Seat stands out for its combination of affordability and functionality. Its compact design makes it an excellent choice for families with smaller vehicles, ensuring that it won’t take up excessive space while still keeping your child secure. The attractive Canyon color adds a stylish touch, and the seat’s convertible nature means it will last through various stages of your child’s growth.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The padding, while sufficient, is not as plush as what you might find in more premium models, which could impact long-term comfort on longer journeys. Additionally, some parents have found the installation process to be a bit challenging, and the number of reclining positions is somewhat limited. Despite these drawbacks, the Cosco Kids™ MightyFit™ LX Convertible Car Seat remains a solid option for those seeking a reliable and budget-friendly car seat.
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Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat

The Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat, West Point, is designed with a space-saving and lightweight structure, making it an ideal choice for parents looking for a compact yet reliable car seat. This model from Graco offers ease of use and safety features that ensure a comfortable ride for your child.
Pros:
- Space-saving design fits well in smaller vehicles.
- Lightweight and easy to transfer between cars.
- Compact dimensions make it suitable for travel.
- High safety standards and comfortable padding.
Cons:
- Limited color options may not suit everyone’s preference.
- Weight limit might not accommodate older children.
The Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat is a fantastic option for parents seeking a reliable and compact car seat. Its space-saving design ensures that it fits comfortably in smaller vehicles, which is a crucial consideration for many families. The lightweight nature of the seat makes it incredibly convenient to transfer between different cars, a feature that busy parents will undoubtedly appreciate.
Additionally, the compact dimensions of this car seat make it an excellent choice for travel, as it doesn’t take up much space and is easy to handle. The high safety standards and comfortable padding further enhance its appeal, providing peace of mind and comfort for both parents and children. However, the limited color options and weight limit may be a drawback for some, as they might not meet everyone’s needs. Overall, the Graco Contender Slim Convertible Car Seat is a solid investment for those prioritizing convenience and safety.
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Safety 1st Grow And Go All-in-one Convertible Car Seat

Introducing the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat, a versatile and reliable car seat designed to grow with your child. From a rear-facing car seat for infants weighing 5-40 lbs to a forward-facing car seat for toddlers weighing 30-65 lbs, and finally a high back booster seat for children weighing 40-100 lbs, this car seat offers comprehensive safety and comfort throughout your child’s early years. The elegant Sugar Plum Pop color adds a stylish touch, ensuring both function and aesthetics.
Pros:
- Versatile design that grows with your child
- Rear-facing mode supports infants from 5-40 lbs
- Forward-facing mode supports toddlers from 30-65 lbs
- High back booster seat supports children from 40-100 lbs
- Stylish Sugar Plum Pop color
- Durable construction by Safety 1st and Dorel Juvenile Group
Cons:
- Bulky dimensions may not fit smaller vehicles
- Weight of 15.4 pounds may be heavy for some parents
The Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat is designed with the needs of growing families in mind. Its versatile design ensures that it can accommodate children at various stages, from infants to older kids. The rear-facing mode supports infants weighing 5-40 lbs, providing a safe and comfortable environment for the youngest passengers. As your child grows, the car seat seamlessly transitions to a forward-facing mode, supporting toddlers weighing 30-65 lbs. Finally, the high back booster seat mode accommodates children weighing 40-100 lbs, ensuring continued safety and comfort as they grow.
While the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Convertible Car Seat offers numerous benefits, it’s important to consider its bulky dimensions, which may not fit well in smaller vehicles. Additionally, the car seat’s weight of 15.4 pounds might be cumbersome for some parents when transferring it between cars. However, the car seat’s durable construction, stylish Sugar Plum Pop color, and the backing of reputable brands like Safety 1st and Dorel Juvenile Group make it a reliable choice for parents seeking a long-lasting and adaptable car seat for their children.
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Cosco Mighty Fit 65 Dx Convertible Car Seat

The Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat in Heather Onyx is a versatile and essential car seat designed to keep your child safe and comfortable during travel. With its compact design and lightweight construction, this car seat easily fits in most vehicles without compromising on safety or comfort.
Pros:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to install and transfer between vehicles.
- Compact size fits well in smaller cars.
- Adjustable harness grows with your child for extended use.
- Affordable price without sacrificing safety features.
- Machine washable seat pad for easy cleaning.
Cons:
- Limited padding might not be as comfortable for longer trips.
- Basic design lacks advanced features found in higher-end models.
- Installation instructions can be confusing for some users.
The Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat stands out for its affordability and practicality. Its lightweight nature ensures that it is easy to transfer between different vehicles, making it an ideal choice for busy parents on the go. Despite its compact size, it doesn’t compromise on safety, providing a secure fit for your child.
On the flip side, the limited padding may make it less comfortable for longer journeys, and the basic design may not appeal to those looking for more advanced features. Some users may also find the installation process a bit challenging due to the instructions provided. However, for its price point, the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX Convertible Car Seat offers a reliable and practical solution for families seeking a budget-friendly yet safe car seat option.
To buy this product, click here.
Graco Extend2fit Convertible Car Seat

The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat offers a versatile and safe seating solution for newborns, infants, and toddlers. With its extended rear-facing seat option and forward-facing capabilities, this car seat is designed to grow with your child, providing comfort and security throughout their early years.
Pros:
- Extended rear-facing option for added safety
- Convertible design accommodates both rear-facing and forward-facing positions
- High-quality materials and construction
- Compact dimensions make it suitable for various vehicle sizes
- Brand reputation of Graco for reliability and safety
Cons:
- Heavier weight at 19 pounds
- Bulky dimensions might not be ideal for smaller cars
- Higher price point compared to some other models
The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat stands out with its extended rear-facing option, which is a crucial feature for enhancing the safety of young children during car rides. This feature allows parents to keep their children in a rear-facing position for a longer period, which is considered safer for infants and toddlers. Additionally, the convertible design ensures that the car seat can transition from rear-facing to forward-facing, making it a long-term investment for growing families.
Despite its heavier weight and bulkier dimensions, the Graco Extend2Fit is designed with high-quality materials that ensure durability and comfort. Its compact design makes it suitable for a range of vehicles, although it may be a tight fit in smaller cars. The higher price point reflects the car seat’s premium features and the trusted reputation of the Graco brand, making it a worthwhile consideration for parents seeking a reliable and versatile car seat for their child.
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Baby Trend Hybrid 3-in-1 Combination Booster Car Seat

The Baby Trend Hybrid™ 3-in-1 Combination Booster Car Seat is designed to grow with your child, providing a safe and comfortable ride from toddler to big kid. This versatile car seat is perfect for parents looking for an all-in-one solution for their child’s travel needs.
Pros:
- Versatile 3-in-1 design
- Easy to install and adjust
- High-quality, durable materials
- Comfortable padding for long trips
Cons:
- Can be bulky for smaller cars
- Higher price point compared to some other models
The Baby Trend Hybrid™ 3-in-1 Combination Booster Car Seat stands out with its versatile design, allowing it to be used as a forward-facing harness seat, high-back booster, and backless booster. This feature ensures that parents get the most value for their money as the car seat adapts to the growing needs of their child. Additionally, its high-quality and durable materials mean it can withstand the test of time and regular use, making it a reliable choice for parents.
However, it’s important to consider some potential drawbacks. The car seat’s bulkiness might be an issue for smaller vehicles, making it less ideal for compact cars. Also, while the car seat offers a wide range of features and high quality, it comes at a higher price point compared to some other models available on the market. Despite these cons, the Baby Trend Hybrid™ 3-in-1 Combination Booster Car Seat remains a top choice for parents who prioritize safety, comfort, and longevity in their child’s car seat.
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Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Dash Sage

The Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat in Dash Sage is a versatile and reliable option for parents looking to ensure the safety and comfort of their child during car rides. It is designed to grow with your child, offering three distinct seating positions for different stages of development.
Pros:
- Versatile 3-in-1 design
- Lightweight at only 10.42 pounds
- Compact dimensions make it easy to fit in most vehicles
- Adjustable harness for a secure fit
- Stylish Dash Sage color
Cons:
- May be challenging to install for some users
- Lacks some high-end features found in more expensive car seats
The Baby Trend Trooper 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an excellent choice for parents who value both safety and versatility. Its ability to transform from a rear-facing infant seat to a forward-facing toddler seat and finally to a belt-positioning booster makes it a cost-effective investment. The lightweight design and compact dimensions ensure that it can be easily moved between vehicles and fit comfortably in most car models.
However, some users may find the installation process a bit challenging, especially if they are not familiar with convertible car seats. Additionally, while the Baby Trend Trooper offers essential features for safety and comfort, it may not include some of the advanced features found in more premium models. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Baby Trend Trooper remains a popular choice for its practicality, stylish design, and reliable performance.
To buy this product, click here.
Graco Triride 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat

The Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat in Redmond Color is a versatile and reliable car seat designed to grow with your child from newborn to preschooler. It offers three different modes: Highback Booster, Forward Facing, and Rear Facing, making it a perfect choice for long journeys.
Pros:
- Versatile 3-in-1 design for extended use
- Suitable from newborn to preschooler
- Highback Booster, Forward & Rear Facing modes
- Comfortable for long journeys
- Redmond color adds style
Cons:
- Relatively heavy at 18.45 pounds
- Larger dimensions may not fit smaller vehicles
The Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is designed with the growing family in mind. Its ability to transition from a Highback Booster to Forward Facing and Rear Facing modes ensures that your child remains safe and comfortable at every stage of their development. The Redmond color adds a touch of style to any vehicle interior, making it a fashionable as well as practical choice.
One of the standout features of this car seat is its suitability for long journeys. The seat is designed to provide maximum comfort, reducing the chances of your child becoming restless during extended trips. However, it’s important to note that the car seat’s weight and dimensions may pose a challenge for some users, especially those with smaller vehicles. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Graco TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat remains a highly recommended option for parents looking for a long-term car seat solution.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Best Car Seat For Compact Cars?
The Safety 1st Crosstown Slim is ideal for compact cars. It offers a slim design and multiple safety features.
Are Convertible Car Seats Suitable For Newborns?
Yes, convertible car seats like the Graco Extend2Fit are suitable for newborns. They offer rear-facing options for better safety.
Which Car Seat Is The Most Lightweight?
The Cosco Kids™ MightyFit™ LX is lightweight. It’s easy to install and perfect for compact cars.
Can I Use One Car Seat For All Stages?
Yes, the Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One is designed for all stages. It adapts as your child grows.
What Is The Best Car Seat For Long Journeys?
The Graco TriRide 3-in-1 is ideal for long journeys. It offers comfort and multiple safety features for extended use.
Which Car Seat Offers Extended Rear-facing?
The Graco Extend2Fit offers extended rear-facing. It’s perfect for added safety for newborns and toddlers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right car seat for your compact car can be challenging. Each option mentioned offers great features and safety. The safety 1st crosstown slim is perfect for tight spaces. Cosco kids™ mightyfit™ lx fits well in small cars. Graco contender slim is lightweight and easy to install.
The safety 1st grow and go is versatile for growing kids. Cosco mighty fit 65 dx is also a reliable choice. Graco extend2fit offers extended rear-facing options. Baby trend hybrid™ 3-in-1 is ideal for long journeys. Lastly, graco triride 3-in-1 suits all stages from newborn to preschooler.
Evaluate your needs and car space. Then pick the best fit for your family. Safety and comfort are crucial. Your child deserves the best protection on the road. With these options, you can make a well-informed decision. Enjoy safe and happy travels with your little one!