9 Best Car Seats for Ford Explorer – 3-seats; 6&7-seaters; Inflatable Belt
Table of Contents
Introduction
While buying a car seat may be as ‘easy’ as just choosing any random seat, it gets tricker or more difficult when you are to consider your vehicle model.
The Ford Explorer is unique in its interior design and child car seat compatibility; you have to be aware of what to expect before buying the vehicle or your child car seat.
The Ford Explorer measures 59.1″ in the second row, hip room, and 40.9″ in the third row, hip room.
Some of the peculiar features that give the Ford Explorer this uniqueness are the type of seat belt, which is the inflatable type; the different versions of the same model with different versions again of the seat rows and the seat design itself.
The burden of you researching which best car seats for Ford Explorer are compatible has been lifted off you, hence this comprehensive article on the best convertible car seat for Ford Explorer, at the same time, exploring other car seat types (infant & booster) for the same vehicle model.
Being a passionate car seat enthusiast who has written several articles helping parents and readers make their choice of car seats from my experience researching and understanding car seats better over time; you can be confident in my recommendations that they will help your decision-making process.
2011-2019, 2020-present Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer is an SUV that has come through several modifications over six generations since 1991, when the first model was released.
One of the modifications that have come through, as seen in the fifth generation (2011 – 2019), is the introduction of dual inflatable safety belts in the rear seat, which incorporates an airbag sewn into the belt that inflates with cold air to prevent burns.
However, there is a question of if child car seats can be used with inflatable belts.
Another feature from this generation is an inclusive dual seating capacity option – the 6-seater and 7-seater models.
The 7-seater model has another dual version of the 2nd-row seats, one with regular seat belts and the other with inflatable seat belts.
The 6-seater model also has an optional feature of the inflatable seat belt.
Nonetheless, either version has compatible child seat types and models. Therefore, irrespective of the model of Ford Explorer you already have, there are suitable seats to choose from.
To be more comprehensive, the focus of this article shall be on the 7-seater model with the inflatable belts. This also accommodates car seats compatible with the 6-seater and the regular seat belt 7-seater model and compatible 3-seat types.
FAQs
Before delving deep into this article, I will answer some frequently asked questions about the Ford Explorer and related car seats.
Can you install a car seat with inflatable seat belts?
Yes, you can install car seats with inflatable seat belts; however, not all manufacturers allow/approve their seats to be installed with such belts. However, limited brands and models of car seats can be installed with inflatable seat belts.
On the other hand, vehicle seat positions also have the LATCH/ISOFIX system (outboard seats). As such, you can use the LATCH/ISOFIX over the inflatable seat belt.
While LATCH/ISOFIX has a limited weight range (car seat + child weight) that can be carried according to the car seat manufacturer’s instruction, there are specific car seat models that offer higher weight limit, which become a better choice for the LATCH over the inflatable belts.
Can you fit 3 car seats in a Ford Explorer?
The 7-seater model of the Ford Explorer allows for 3 car seats in the 2nd row. Such 2nd row may be the type with the regular or inflatable seat belt. However, the latter has a limited option for 3 car seats, which should be slim and may be difficult to achieve.
The recommended approach will be to utilize the third row. Your rear-facing seats, two of such, can be in the 2nd row, and forward-facings or boosters in the 3rd row.
An alternative option to the Ford Explorer is the Ford Expedition which is bigger and has more room between the first and second rows.
Can you put car seat in the middle of Ford Explorer?
The 7-seater model of the Ford Explorer has a middle seat in the 2nd row, unlike the 6-seater model, and can therefore accommodate a car seat in that position. Depending on the version, the vehicle may be equipped with either the regular or inflatable seat belts. Either type can be used to install a car seat (inflatable – if approved by the manufacturer) in the middle.
Can you put a carseat in the 3rd Row of a Ford Explorer?
The third row of the Ford Explorer measures 40.9″, hip room, and as such, can accommodate a car seat. At that dimension, the 3rd row will conveniently accommodate two car seats. However, forward-facing or booster seats are best installed here.
However, accessing the third row is something to consider. The middle seat of the 2nd row can be removed to have ‘easy’ access to the third row. This way, you can have four car seats in your Ford Explorer – two (rear-facings) on the 2nd row outboard seats installed with seat belts or LATCH/ISOFIX, and two (forward-facing or booster) on the 3rd row.
NB: Not all Ford Explorer models (e.g., 2017 XL, XL limited) can have the middle seat 2nd row taken out, but there is a hack. Read here for a workaround on this.
Recommendation for Car Seat Combination and Placement in your Ford Explorer
The Ford Explorer, being a big car or a spacious car with more seat row options, cranking up your car seats in a single row is not recommended.
You can use the middle seat and one outboard seat on the middle row for your rear-facing car seats and the third row for your forward-facing and booster seats.
You can also install your car seats on the outboard seats in the second row, have the middle seat removed for easy access to the third row, and have forward-facing or booster seats in the third row.
Note that the middle seat is the safest position for rear-facing car seats.
Convertible Car Seats:
With Inflatable seat belts:
- Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 – 20.75″D X 24.5″H X 19.0″W
- Clek Foonf 2-in-1 – 17.5″D x 28″H x 16.9″W – fits 3 across
With Regular seat belts
- Britax Boulevard ClickTight 2-in-1 – 23″D x 23.7″H x 18.5″W
- Chicco NextFit 2-in-1 – 21″D x 26″H x 19.0″W
Infant Car Seats:
- Graco SnugRide® SnugFit™ Series – 29″D x 25.5″H x 17.5″W
- Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller – 26D x 22.4H x 17.3W
Belt-positioning Booster Seats:
- Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 – 22″D x 26.75″H x 17.25″W
- Clek Oobr 2-in-1
At A Glance, The Best Convertible, Infant, & Booster Car Seats For Ford Explorer
Best Convertible Seat
- Fits 3 across
- High crash test ratings
- High ease-of-use rating
- 3-in-1 convertible car seat
- Recommended weight range: 5-100 lbs.
- Height limit: 57 in.
-
Dimension:
20.7"Dx24.5"Hx16.7"W - Weight: 19.2 lbs.
- Expiration: 10 years from the date of manufacture
- FAA Approved
Best Baby Seat
- Fits 3 across
- High crash test ratings
- High ease-of-use rating
- Infant car seat (rear-facing only)
- Recommended weight range: 4-35 lbs.
- Height limit: 32 in.
-
Dimension:
28"Dx24"H x16.5"W - Weight: 18.5 lbs.
- Expiration: 6 years from the date of manufacture
- FAA Approved
Best Booster Seat
- Fits 3 across
- High crash test ratings
- High ease-of-use rating
-
2-in-1 booster seat
(high-back & backless modes) - Recommended weight range: 40-110 lbs.
- Height limit: 57 in.
- Dimension:17"D x 26"H x 17"W
- Weight: 10 lbs
- Expiration: 8 years from the date of manufacture
Important Decision-making Factors Behind these Recommendations
While this article so far seems like it’s only the 6- or 7-seater models, or the inflatable belt options that are considered in this recommendation, it goes beyond that.
There are many other factors that must be considered when getting a car seat for a vehicle, irrespective of make or model.
These factors, among others, include:
- Car seat safety (crash test ratings)
- Ease of installation & installation features
- Car seat features (ease-of-use and ratings)
- Car seat weight and dimensions
- Car seat expiration
Understanding these factors and knowing what to look out for in a car seat is crucial before deciding to go for it. This will also help you if you choose something other than the recommended ones here.
You can skip to the sections you want here:
Safety of Car Seat (crash test rating)
A car seat’s primary function is to ensure a child’s safety during a car accident.
In the United States, strict regulations are enforced to ensure that car seat production meets stringent federal standards.
Additionally, several manufacturers go above and beyond by including extra safety features to further enhance the general safety of car seats and give extra peace of mind.
After production, each car seat undergoes numerous tests to ensure that it meets established standards before it can be sold.
Furthermore, some organizations conduct independent tests to assess the safety of car seats in different aspects.
Depending on the seat mode (rf, ff & booster), here are some standard test reports to look out for in a car seat:
- NHTSA rating (ease-of-use),
- IIHS rating (Booster seats), and
- crash test rating (from BabyGearLab).
Despite this, it is important to note that every car seat sold in the US market is safe, and ‘individual biases and preferences are the only factors that make people more specific about this feature.
Ease of Installation
One important factor that plays a crucial role in ensuring a car seat’s safety is the installation process.
Installing the child seat properly and securely is imperative to ensure it performs its purpose during an accident.
NHSTA reports indicate that over 50% of car seats are improperly installed, making it essential to ensure correct installation.
Some manufacturers include easy installation features in their models, while others may offer them at a premium.
It is crucial to check for such features or reported ratings before selecting a car seat.
Ford Explorer has a twist in this regard. When you decide you will be using the inflatable belt, you are limited by car seat options and installation methods. Nonetheless, the LATCH/ISOFIX system still gives you leverage on car seat installation options.
Car seat features (ease-of-use)
The task of taking care of a baby is already stressful enough without the additional burden of handling a car seat.
Adjusting the harness straps, cleaning the seat cover, and buckling in and out your child can make a car seat either a source of frustration or a pleasure to use.
Most parents prioritize the ease-of-use factor when selecting a car seat, and it’s understandable not when you are using a luxury car like the Ford Explorer.
Different car seat models come with various ease-of-use features, and some brands consistently include such features in all their models. However, other brands may reserve these features for their pricier models.
Nevertheless, the recommended car seats for Ford Explorer on this list takes this into consideration.
Car seat weight and dimensions
When choosing a car seat, it’s important to consider its compatibility with the make and model of your vehicle.
Besides the weight of the car seat, dimensions are also crucial to take into account for two reasons: front-to-back compatibility when the seat is rear-facing and side-to-side compatibility when multiple car seats are needed.
Certain car seats may be wide with low height clearance, while others may be compact but have higher heights.
Nonetheless, it’s possible to find a compact car seat with a low height clearance, which would be a perfect fit for your Ford Explorer.
Car seat expiration
Car seats come with an expiration date, which varies depending on the brand and model.
Some car seats have a lifespan of six years, while others can be used for up to 12 years. Most convertible car seats provide a ten-year usable life.
If you’re looking for an economical option, a convertible car seat is a better choice than an infant seat.
However, personal preference and the need for a stroller may lead you to start with an infant seat and switch to a convertible seat later on.
It is crucial to avoid using a car seat after its expiration date. Instead of gifting an expired seat, it should be disposed of properly.
You can check the expiration dates of the following car seat brands (all models):
Best Convertible Car Seat for Ford Explorer
Car seats are recommended under each heading to accommodate inflatable belts and regular belt version owners.
While the seats under the inflatable belt version can be used with the regular belt versions, vice-versa is not recommended.
Ford Explorer Models with Inflatable seat belts
These car seats can also be used with regular seat belts.
1. Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat
The Graco Extend2Fit, among other Graco models, is one of the few car seat brands and models that are approved for use with inflatable seat belts by the manufacturer (Graco).
The covet with the Graco Extend2Fit and other Graco convertibles when installing with the inflatable belt in your Ford Explorer is that you should NOT use the built-in shoulder belt lock-off when available like in the 4Ever® DLX Extend2Fit® SnugLock® 4-in-1 car seat.
What makes this Graco Extend2Fit the top choice for a Ford Explorer include:
- It has a high weight limit for LATCH/ISOFIX system installation over the inflatable belt when rear-facing. Maximum child weight (when using LATCH) is 40 lbs.
- It is compatible for installation with the inflatable belt in rf, ff, and booster modes.
- Relatively low height clearance (24.5" H) for front-to-back compatibility when rear-facing (behind the front seats).
- Extended usage when rear-facing – 4 lbs. up to 50 lbs. And an adjustable extension panel that provides extra leg room up to 5".
- It fits two seats in the 2nd row (rf) or 3rd row (ff or booster).
- Highest crash test rating (8.5/10).
Therefore, the Graco Extend2Fit 3-in-1 car seat is the best convertible car seat for Ford Explorer by my recommendation and all the factors considered earlier in this article.
Extend2Fit 3-in-1 Car Seat Ratings
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 8.5/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 214 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 40 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐ Booster mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
IIHS rating (Booster mode) | BEST BET |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Graco Extend2Fit:
| Extend2Fit 3-in-1 | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Has the highest crash test rating (8.5/10)
- High ease-of-use rating
- Extended usage in rear-facing – up to 50 lbs.
- Extra legroom (only in RF) – up to 5 inches.
- Very comfortable
- Super easy to install (the level indicator is easy to read)
- LATCH supports up to 45 lbs. limit before switching to seat belt
- 6 recline positions (SlimFit3 LX has 4)
- 2 removable cups
- The seat has to be uninstalled before removing the seat cover
- The seat cover can be challenging to fix back
- Straps may be challenging to tighten
- The cup holders are square shaped
- ONLY certified for use in the USA
2. Clek Foonf 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
The Clek Foonf makes it as one of the best convertible car seats for Ford Explorer for its compatibility with the Ford Motor Company inflatable seat belts for installation (tested with Ford inflatable belts by Clek).
However, this comes with specialized instructions that must be followed when installing with the inflatable belt. The instructions are different from the regular instructions that come with the seat, and you are to ONLY install the Clek convertible car seat using the inflatable belt instructions.
You have to contact the Clek Customer Service at 1-866-656-2462 with the model and date of manufacture of the car seat in order to obtain the inflatable belt instructions.
If you cannot get the instructions, you can install the car seat using the LATCH.
What makes this Clek Foonf one of the top choices for a Ford Explorer include:
- It is compatible for installation with the inflatable belt in rf and ff modes
- Extended usage when rear-facing – up to 50 lbs. However, the seat height will affect the front-passenger seat.
- It is very slim. At 17"W, you can install three seats across in the 2nd row if you so desire, or as a third seat in combination with other seat types.
- High crash test rating (6.5/10)
Clek Foonf Car Seat Ratings
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 6.5/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 499.7 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 33.4 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐
Forward-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐ |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Clek Foonf:
| Clek Foonf | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Fits 3 across (better as ff)
- Extended usage in rf (up to 50 lbs.)
- Easy to install
- Free of Halogenated flame retardants (safe alternatives are used) (70% Merino wool, 30% Tencel)
- Pricey
- Very heavy
- You need to buy an infant-thingy insert sold separately
- May take up front-to-back space when rear-facing (28 in. height)
- By NHSTA rating, the ease-of-use when rear-facing is low - 2 stars
Ford Explorer Models with Regular seat belts
Now we are going through car seats you can install when you have the regular seat belt version of Ford Explorer. Note, you can’t install these seats with inflatable seat belts.
3. Britax Boulevard ClickTight 2-in-1 Car Seat
The Britax Boulevard ClickTight is regarded as one of the easiest convertible car seats to install by several parents, by either the LATCH or seat belt. This is attributed to the ClickTight installation system patented by Britax, which installs securely in just one click.
Related: Britax Marathon ClickTight vs Britax Boulevard ClickTight.
What makes the Boulevard ClickTight a good fit for your Ford Explorer are:
- Its low height clearance (23.7"H) which offers great front-to-back compatibility when rear-facing. It fits behind the front passenger seats without inconveniencing the occupant.
- Its width at 18.5"W offers it good side-to-side compatibility as two or more car seats, especially if you will be needing convertible car seats in rear-facing mode.
- It is super easy to install.
- It has an average crash test rating (5.5/10)
Many parents have had positive feedbacks about using the Boulevard ClickTight in their Ford Explorer.
Britax Boulevard ClickTight Car Seat Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 5.5/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 289 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 51 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Boulevard ClickTight:
| Boulevard 2-in-1 | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Easy to transition from rear-facing to forward-facing
- FREE of flame-retardant chemicals
- Relatively easy to install
- Pricey
- It is bulky (consider this if you will be switching cars)
4. Chicco NextFit 2-in-1 Car Seat
The Chicco NextFit is another 2-in-1 convertible car seat like the Clek Foonf and Britax Boulevard that can only be used in rear-facing and forward-facing modes, unlike the Extend2Fit, which has an additional booster seat mode.
The Chicco NextFit is a choice convertible car seat for the Ford Explorer for its ease of installation and relatively low height clearance of 26″H, which makes it a good fit as rear-facing.
However, the seat can’t be installed with the inflatable seat belt. So, you should only get this seat if you have the regular seat belt version of Ford Explorer.
On the other hand, there are different versions of the Chicco NextFit.
While this NextFit may be confusing because of its versatile variants, they all have the same configuration but different pricing. And any will fit in your Ford Explorer.
This tip will help you; the NextFit Zip, Sport, ClearTex, and Max, differ majorly by the following features:
- NextFit Sport: 1 cup holder
- NextFit Zip: 1 cup holder and Zip & Wash seat cover
- NextFit Zip Air: 1 cup holder, Zip & Wash seat cover, and 3D AirMesh
- NextFit Zip Max: 2 cups holders, Zip & Wash seat cover, 3D AirMesh, and Extended Leg Room.
Related: Chicco NextFit vs OneFit.
What makes this Chicco NextFit another top choice for a Ford Explorer include:
- Its relatively low height clearance (26"H) offers good front-to-back compatibility when rear-facing.
- Its width at 19"W offers good side-to-side compatibility.
- It is easy to install.
- It has an average crash test rating (5.0/10)
Chicco NextFit Car Seat Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 5.0/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 336.6 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 45.7 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forward-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Chicco NextFit:
| Chicco NextFit | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Easy to install
- Very comfortable
- Easy to recline the car seat
- Reasonable weight, therefore, can be switched between cars
- Different variants with seemingly negligible differences at higher prices
Best Infant Car Seats for Ford Explorer
Ford Explorer Models with Inflatable seat belts
These infant seats can also be used with regular seat belts.
1. Graco SnugRide® SnugFit™ Series (35 DLX)
The Graco SnugRide® SnugFit™ belongs to an infant car series of the Graco brand, the Graco SnugFit™ series, a product line of the Graco SnugRide® that feature a combination of safety technologies and easy installation for both the seat belt and LATCH systems.
When it comes to the inflatable seat belt system of the Ford Explorer, all models of the Graco rear-facing infant seats can be used with inflatable seat belts. However, they MUST be installed without the base.
On the one hand, an advantage of this is that it reduces the front-to-back height when installed behind any of the front seats in the Ford Explorer, even when reclined to the fullest.
On the other hand, the disadvantage is that since you will be installing the carrier without the base, you cannot easily detach the seat to use as a carrier. That means it may have to remain ‘permanently’ installed in your Ford Explorer.
What makes this SnugRide® SnugFit™ the top choice as an infant seat for Ford Explorer include:
- It is compatible for installation with the inflatable belt in rf but without the base.
- Low height clearance (25.5" H) for front-to-back compatibility (behind the front seats).
- Fits 3 seats in the 2nd row - SnugRide SnugFit™ 35 DLX.
- High crash test rating (6.5/10).
SnugRide® SnugFit™ 35 DLX Infant Seat Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 6.5/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 606 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 46 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the SnugRide® SnugFit™ 35 DLX:
| SnugRide® SnugFit™ | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Super easy to install
- Super comfortable
- Very comfy for a preemie
- None found really
2. Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller
When you think of extra convenience as a combo, the Doona infant car seat & stroller got you.
The Donna infant car seat and stroller is an innovative design combining an infant seat and a stroller in a single system, where you can convert from one to the other and back again in a single process.
The double feature of a stroller and an infant seat gives it a comparative advantage over other infant seats on the market. It saves you more money when you think of a travel system.
What makes it even a better deal for you is its compatibility with your Ford Explorer inflatable seat belt, with or without the base, unlike the Graco’s, which must be without the base.
You should not use the shoulder belt lock-off when installing with the base.
When installing without the base, you are not to use the European belt path (that is, do NOT pass the shoulder belt around the infant seat into the blue guide in the back.)
What makes this Doona Infant Seat & Stroller a good fit for your Ford Explorer include:
- It is compatible for installation with the inflatable belt in rf, with and without the base.
- Low height clearance (22.4" H) for front-to-back compatibility (behind the front seats)
- Infant Seat and Stroller combination saves you truck space
Doona Infant Seat & Stroller Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 3.0/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 603 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 60 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Rear-facing mode: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Doona Infant Seat & Stroller:
| Doona Infant Car Seat & Stroller | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- Excellent for newborns (tiny babies from 4lbs.)
- Perfect all-in-one travel system
- Perfect stroller (with brakes)
- Easy to convert to stroller and back to the infant seat
- Easy to install
- Also easy to install in car-sharing rides like Uber, Lyft, etc. even without the base – it is legal
- Super lightweight (and with the adjustable handlebar, it does not get any easier)
- Compact – the wheels don't get in the way of others when strolling
- Ensure to pick the correct version – the US or European (not a CON, really)
- Depending on the edition you are buying, you may need to buy other accessories like the shade and a rain cover
- The handle extension may be too short for a tall parent (though it is adjustable)
Best Booster Car Seats for Ford Explorer
1. Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 Booster Seat
The Peg Perego Viaggio is a high-back booster seat that can be installed in your Ford Explorer with the inflatable seat belt; as far as it was the booster seat was produced after May 2014.
Even though the booster seat is not a dual mode seat with an additional backless booster seat, it takes the top spot as the best booster seat for Ford Explorer for its ease of usage, slim design, sturdy and comfy design, and long usable life.
However, for a booster seat with the acclaimed quality of this brand, the booster seat is pricey.
It is recommended you install your booster seat in the 3rd row and have your rear-facing seats in the 2nd row.
What makes this Viaggio Flex 120 a good booster seat for your Ford Explorer include:
- It is compatible with installation with the inflatable belt without special instructions.
- You can utilize your 3rd row with this seat; at 17.25" width, you can have two seats in the 3rd row.
- It’s easy to use.
- High crash test rating (6.0/10).
Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 Booster Seat Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 6.0/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 757 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 39 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Booster mode: ⭐⭐⭐ |
IIHS rating (Booster mode) | not available |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Viaggio Flex 120 Booster Seat:
| Viaggio 2-3 Shuttle Plus | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- It fits 3 across
- Packed with numerous features
- Super comfortable
- Super easy to install
- Very long lifespan – 12 years
- Relatively bulky for a booster seat (at 14lbs.)
- Very expensive for a booster seat (single mode for the matter)
2. Clek Oobr 2-in-1 Booster Seat
Clek Oobr is a dual-mode booster seat that can be used as a high-back booster and then a backless booster seat, unlike the Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120, which took the top booster spot.
However, the Clek Oobr doesn’t take the top spot for some ‘biased’ reasons. The booster seat is heavy, bulky to lift, not easy to use, and very expensive.
Nonetheless, the booster seat has a super high crash test rating.
What makes the Clek Oobr a good fit for your Ford Explorer include:
- It is compatible with installation with the inflatable belt without special instructions.
- You can utilize your 3rd row with this seat; at 17.25" width, you can have two seats in the 3rd row.
- Highest crash test rating (9.0/10).
Clek Oobr Booster Seat Rating
| Tests | Ratings |
|---|---|
Crash Test rating | 9.0/10 (according to BabyGearLab) |
Crash Test HIC Score (max. of 1000) | 493 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
Crash Test Chest G Clip (max. of 60) | 40 (according to BabyGearLab; the lower, the better) |
NHTSA rating (ease-of-use): | Booster mode: not listed |
IIHS rating (Booster mode) | BEST BET |
The table below shows a single-glance overview of the Clek Oobr Booster Seat:
| Clek Oobr | Overview | Specifications | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
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BENEFITS & DRAWBACKS
- It fits 3 across
- Packed with numerous features
- Super comfortable
- Super easy to install
- Very long lifespan – 12 years
- Relatively bulky for a booster seat (at 14lbs.)
- Very expensive for a booster seat (single mode for the matter)
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Going through these recommended car seats for your BMW X1, making a choice becomes way easier than you’d have imagined.
Helping you make that final choice comes down to your need and car seat combinations if necessary, according to the recommendation earlier in this article.
If you are a first-time parent expecting or have a newborn, go with the Chicco KeyFit 35 and install it in the middle seat.
If you are expecting twins, go with two convertible car seats installed on the middle seat and behind the front passenger seat. These seats can be either the Graco SlimFit3 LX 3-in-1 or Extend2Fit 3-in-1.
If you already have two seats (either infant or convertible) and need a third seat, install the infant seat in the middle and the convertibles on the outboard seats, either rear- or forward-facing. This third seat may be a booster seat. Go for the Chicco KidFit 2-in-1 booster seat.
These car seats have the highest crash test ratings and other car seat safety and ease-of-use ratings making them your best choice for your BMW X1.
