Less expensive than British imports, but with a healthy dose of safety and style, the Evenflo Triumph 5 Convertible Car Seat is a good bet.

This car seat comes in a variety of color and pattern combinations, so there is a design to match nearly any vehicle's decor or parent's preference. This is one handsome car seat, and it looks like a comfy place to sit. Our child tester agreed, even after a long car ride, thanks in part to the extremely well-padded seat and the four recline positions it has to offer. However, this seat padding isn't for comfort only: It is comprised of energy-absorbing foam, like that used in bicycle helmets. Ready for more good news? This same EPS foam is used in higher-priced British imports long known for their safety features, and you can have it in this car seat at a fraction of the cost.

The LATCH-equipped car seat is meant to be used rear facing for children 5 to 30 pounds and forward facing for children between 20 and 40 pounds. We found the car seat's instruction manual is extensive and easy to understand (but it is nearly hidden upon arrival; the manual is near the seat's bottom edge, behind the seat cover).

The five-point harness is relatively easy to adjust, and the car seat itself is as simple to install as most others in its class. The chest clip on the harness takes a bit of practice to get the hang of, but we think that will improve with use. While this model doesn't have a lot of extras such as cup holders, padded arm rests and other gizmos, it provides a comfortable ride at a reasonable price. Overall, the Evenflo Triumph 5 Convertible Car Seat receives a good rating for its safety features and comfortable style.


Pros: LATCH equipped, energy-absorbing foam, use from 5 to 40 pounds
Cons: Not a lot of extras, harness's chest clip can be tricky

Warranty
90 days