The newest generation of convertible car seats is sporting a number of important improvements, including higher weight limits, greater side impact protection and better user-friendly features. Look for convertible car seats that can be used in three modes, as rear-facing, forward-facing and booster car seats, accommodating children from birth up to 80 pounds. Although these models are generally more expensive than those with lower weight limits, they may still be a practical choice for parents who want to buy one car seat that lasts for years. It's important to choose a car seat that's equipped with energy-absorbing EPS foam because it can help provide increased protection during impact. Currently, EPS foam is available on most high-priced convertible car seat imports and is becoming standard fare on many mid-priced convertible car seats. Some of the most effective convertible car seats have additional side impact protection, but generally cost more.

Britax Boulevard Convertible Car Seat in Park Avenue E9L5711

At a whopping $299.99, the Britax Boulevard Convertible Car Seat in Park Avenue can take a bite out of a new parent's wallet. Fortunately for most people, this purchase pays off in the long run. Why? Because the Britax Boulevard can be used as both a rear-facing and forward-facing car seat, accommodating infants from birth to 65 pounds. Plus, it offers important safety features such as True Side Impact Protection not found on most of its competitors. True Side Impact Protection, which includes a head-area cushion with EPS foam-lined wings, can be adjusted for a custom fit that minimizes movement during an impact. And, thanks to a pushbutton release LATCH system, the Britax Boulevard is very easy to install. Although large, the Britax Boulevard Convertible Car Seat in Park Avenue is built to last -- and looks good doing it.

Britax Boulevard Convertible Car Seat in Park Avenue E9L5711

Britax Decathlon Convertible Car Seat in Tiffany E9L47A0

Very similar in style to other Britax convertible car seat models, the Decathlon Convertible Car Seat in Tiffany has one important difference: an adjustable crotch strap. The crotch strap (part of the car seat's five-point harness) has three positions, which makes it more comfortable to custom-fit the harness to one's child. At about $285, the Britax Decathlon Convertible Car Seat in Tiffany can be used as a rear-facing or forward-facing car seat, and accommodates children weighing five to 65 pounds. The car seat has important safety features found on other Britax models, such as EPS foam, and it sports one recline position and a whimsical cushioned cover that's hand machine washable. The Britax Decathlon Convertible Car Seat in Tiffany is easy to use, simple to adjust and a snap to install in one's vehicle.

Safety 1st Alpha Sport 3-Phase Convertible Car Seat 22452

With a price tag of about $100, the Safety 1st Alpha Sport 3-Phase Convertible Car Seat seems like a bargain. Throw a few important features into the mix -- such as EPS foam and the ability to accommodate children from five to 80 pounds -- and we find this is one convertible car seat worth a closer look. The Safety 1st Alpha Sport 3-Phase can be used as a rear-facing car seat for infants up to 35 pounds, which is a few pounds more than most other models. It also converts to a forward-facing car seat and, finally, a belt-positioning booster. It has several user-friendly features, such as up-front harness adjustment and belt-positioning guides installed on both sides of the car seat. The instructions are a breeze and we were surprised to find that converting the car seat to any of its three modes doesn't require an advanced degree in engineering.

Graco ComfortSport Convertible Car Seat in Watercolor Flowers 8C03WCF

At a mere $79.99, purchasing the Graco ComfortSport Convertible Car Seat in Watercolor Flowers is certainly a solid choice. Keep in mind, however, that the Graco ComfortSport Convertible Car Seat only accommodates children up to 40 pounds and cannot be used as a booster seat. This is important to consider because some of this car seat's competitors can tote children up to 80 pounds. Still, with energy-absorbing EPS foam, up-front harness adjustment and padded head support for infants, the Graco ComfortSport Convertible Car Seat in Watercolor Flowers has a lot to offer as either a rear-facing or forward-facing car seat. Plus, it has a number of convenient add-ons such as a cup holder and storage compartments. It's easy to install, easy to use and outfitted in a cheerful mix of coordinating flower-print fabrics.