ADAC Car Seat Test Results Autumn 2023
Searching for the ideal car seat to ensure your child's safety? We've summarized the outcomes from ADAC's rigorous test this year to assist you in selecting the perfect car seat.
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Spring 2022
Looking for the best car seat to keep your little one safe? We've translated the results of this year's rigorous ADAC test to help you decide your perfect car seat.
Are you in the market for a new car seat? Well, you're in luck! We've got the latest updates on car seat safety testing from ADAC. For those who may not be familiar, ADAC is an auto insurance company that rigorously tests car seats, surpassing standard EU regulations. They conduct two rounds of testing each year- Spring and Autumn. Therefore, if a car seat receives a recommendation from ADAC, it's definitley something you should pay attention to.
ADAC's results are originally published in German, but do not fret because we've already taken care of that work for you. You won't have to struggle with the complexities of Google translate because we've summarized all of the essential information in English right here!
Which car seats are tested by ADAC?
ADAC does not test every car seat made, but rather they carefully select the seats based on their popularity and those with special features, such as swivel seats, for example. ADAC purchase these seats independently and keep their selection a secret until the release of the results, so you can rely on the results of the tests to be completely unbiased and uninfluenced by any manufacturers. These results are then released to bodies such as Which? to help parents make informed choices in regard to their child’s safety.
How do ADAC test these car seats?
In general, all car seats made are tested to either ECE R44 or ECE R129 (i-Size) regulations, however ADAC test their seats even more rigorously than these standards, so you, as a consumer, can see which car seats have really gone above and beyond to ensure your child’s safety.
The standard tests simulate collisions at 50km/h , where as ADAC tests frontal collisions at 64km/h and side collisions at 50km/h to really put the car seats through their paces. ADAC uses the chassis of a real car (VW Golf) for their testing, rather than a test-sled, to make it more accurate, and they also utilise advanced Q series test dummies which have far more sensors than the ones used in the regulation tests. These dummies are able to collect more data for optimal analysis of the tested seats.
In addition to testing the safety features, the car seat materials themselves are scrutinised to check that they don't contain any harmful substances.
The 3 main criteria for the tests are:
Safety (50%), Operations (40%) and Ergonomics (10%)
So, not only is the safety of the seat taken into account, but also the ease of use and fitting, how comfortable the seat is for the child and how accessible the user’s manual is etc, encouraging manufacturers, in turn, to focus on these aspects for your benefit.
What do the ratings mean?
The ratings are grouped into five categories, as pictured. As you can see, the lower the score, the better, so bear this in mind when shopping for your little one’s new car seat.
ADAC scores are a great indicator of the quality of the seat, although as mentioned before, not all seats are tested by ADAC. These tests are extremely scrupulous so if a seat doesn’t have an ADAC score, or if it isn’t within the top ADAC category, this does not mean that the seat is not safe.
ADAC'S reflection on this season's testing
After each test, the ADAC includes their reflection on the findings and advice on what is the best step forward for the car seat industry.
This time, the ADAC critically tested 29 seats for safety, operation, ergonomics and pollutant content in its child seat test. Good models are available in all sizes, but two models are “poor”. Two models failed the current child seat test due to "excessive pollution", whilst 21 seats received the ADAC rating of “good” and six received a “satisfactory” rating.
The ADAC stated how child seats with an Isofix attachment usually offer the best safety and are easy to use. That's why almost all new child seat models that are approved according to the new UN ECE Reg 129 standard are equipped with it. This new i-Size approval standard is based on the size of the child.
"Particularly affected by the future sales ban will be a large proportion of the currently available integral seats with belt attachment (for small children aged one to four years). The problem: When it comes to new seat models and the more complex approval process, child seat manufacturers are mainly concentrating on the upper price segment. And because the demand for Isofix fastenings is particularly high, it is mainly Isofix models that are approved" (ADAC 2023).
We’ve compiled a list of some of the car seats fromAutumn 2023's ADAC testing for you to persue, which are available at Baby&Co.
Keep scrolling for more information, and to hear what ADAC had to say about some of your favourite seats!
Autumn 2023 Results
Cybex Solution T i-Fix
Suitability: 4 years to approx. 12 years
2.0 - Good
Features:
- ISOFIX compatible
- Patented reclining headrest and reclining backrest
- Air Ventilation and mesh
- Advanced Linear side impact protection
- Height and automatic width adjustment
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.1
ADAC tested the Cybex Solution T i-Fix and results showed that there was a very low risk of injury in a side crash and that the seat remained stable in the vehicle. The car seat was also praised for having good belt routing.
It was found that there was an average risk of injury overall.
Service 1.6
ADAC concluded that the seat is very easy to install, with simple operating instructions and warnings. This is ideal for parents who worry about making a mistake with the installation, and thus putting their children at risk.
Their only complaint was the larger weight of the seat which could make installing the seat more taxing on parent's.
Ergonomics 1.8
ADAC praised the leg support on the seat, as well as the cushioned padding of the seat.
They also found the seating position to be convenient for comfort- with plenty of room for the child to feel comfortable.
Their notes in terms of weaknesses with this seat were that there were increased space requirements for inside of the car.
We feel it’s worth noting that whilst this could be seen as a weakness, the side of the seat is larger in order to optimise its effectiveness in a side collision, so it’s really a matter of personal preference.
Additional notes
After testing the materials, ADAC found that there is little to no risk of pollutants within the fabrics and commended the seat for its good craftmenship. The cover is also easy to remove incase it needs a wash.
Britax Romer Adventure Plus 2
Suitability: 4 years to approx. 12 years
2.3 - Good
Features:
- Suitable from 4 to 12 years
- Adjustable backrest
- Easy, adjustable ergonomic headrest
- Allows for three seats in a row in back of car
- Removable cover
- Highback booster protection
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.2
Results indicated that there was low risk of injury in a front crash and low risk of injury in a side crash.
The seat remained stable in vehicle.
Service 2.5
ADAC concluded that there is a very low risk of mis-installation with the Britax Romer Adventure Plus 2, with instructions and warnings that are clear and easy to understand. Additionally, the seat is lightweight and practical. That being said, they did highlight that there is a slightly increased risk of incorrect operation.
Ergonomics 1.9
ADAC praised the leg rest of the product and liked the fact that there was a good view of the outside for the child when in the seat. The seating position was convenient, with a good amount of space. Their only criticism of this seat was that it has slightly too thin padding.
Additional notes
The materials used in the seat were concluded to contain very low pollution. Additionally, ADAC points out that removing the cover for cleaning was easy, however, there were slight workmanship defects.
Britax Römer Discovery Plus 2
Suitability: From 4 to approx. 12 years
2.3 - Good
Features:
- Suitable from 4 to 12 years
- Adjustable backrest
- Easy, adjustable ergonomic headrest
- Allows for three seats in a row in back of car
- New Isofix connectors
- Removable cover
- Highback booster protection
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.1
For the Britax Römer Discovery Plus 2 car seat, the ADAC found that there was a low risk of injury in a frontal crash and a low risk of injury in a side crash.
The ADAC also praised the seats belt routing and confirmed that the seat was very stable within the test vehicle.
Service 2.5
ADAC confirmed that there is a very low risk of misuse with the Britax Römer Discovery Plus 2 car seat and applauded the ease in which the child can be buckled in, in addition to how simple the seat is to install and how straightforward the instructions are.
However, they stated how there is slight risk of incorrect operation.
They also commended how lightweight the seat is, so this is definitely a hot product for parents looking for a seat which can be moved between cars.
Ergonomics 2.0
ADAC highlighted that this product has a good leg rest, is soft, allows enough space for little passengers to feel comfortable, is in a convient seating position and gives great views out of window for the child when they are seated. ADAC applauded how little space the seat takes up, which is ideal for parents pressed for room in their vehicles. Their only complaint was that they felt that the padding was a little on the thin side.
Additional notes
The material tests on the Britax Discovery Plus 2 found that there was very low pollution in the fabrics. The cover is machine washable so you can keep it nice and fresh for baby and it is also easy to remove. However, the ADAC claim that there were slight workmanship defects.
Cybex Cloud T
Suitability: Birth to approx. 24 months
2.1 - Good
Features:
- Lasts from birth to approximately 24 months (87cm)
- In-car recline position with the ISOFIX Base T (sold separately)
- Ergonomic lie-flat position for travel system use
- Stretch & Lie-Flat Technology for extended seating area
- All-round air ventilation for optimal comfort
- 180° rotation for effortless on and off-boarding when isofix base is used
- XXL Sun Canopy with UPF50+ protection
- Proven Linear Side-impact Protection (L.S.P.) System
- Travel system ready with compatible strollers and pushchairs
- Height-adjustable Headrest for a secure fit
- Removable Newborn Inlay for safe travel with smaller babies
- Compatible with the ISOFIX Base T for secure installation
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.0
The ADAC tests showed us that the Cybex Cloud T passed with flying colours by having a very low risk of injury in a front crash and a very low risk of injury in a side crash. The product also boasts optimum belt routing and the seat remained stable in vehicle.
Service 3.0
The ADAC test showed that the seat was easy to install with the instructions and warnings remaining clear and simple. The only negative feedback was that there is a slightly increased risk of incorrect operation.
Ergonomics 1.7
ADAC had no criticisms regarding the ergonomics of the Cybex Cloud T, praising the ‘good’ leg rest, the ‘good’ padding, its very small footprint within the car itself and also commended that the child has a good view of the outside when in the seat.
ADAC was satisfied with the seating position of the child within the seat and noted the child had a good amount of space.
Additional notes
ADAC noted that there was low pollution within the materials used for the Cybex Cloud T. The covers are machine washable for convenience, however they did state that removing the covers was slightly complicated.
Cybex Cloud T + Base T
Suitability: Birth to approx. 24 months
1.7 - Good
Features:
- Stretch & Lie-flat Technology - ergonomic lie-flat position when used with a stroller
- Ergonomic in-car recline
- 180° rotating mechanism with the use of the Base T
- Integrated L.S.P. System
- 12 position height-adjustable headrest
- Breathable fabrics
- Integrated harness guide
- Retractable XXL UPF50+ sun canopy with mesh window for increased airflow
- Includes removable newborn inlay
- Compatible with the Base T and Base Z2 for secure installation into your car and safe journeys for your baby
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.3
The Cybex Cloud T + Base T received very good marks in safety- receiving a 1.3 means that there is a very low risk of injury in a front and side crash. There is optimum belt routing and the car seat remained stable when in the vehicle.
Service 2.2
Results show that this seat is very user-friendly, with there being a low risk of it being used incorrectly and it is also easy to buckle up. ADAC have claimed that installing the seat is easy and it is easy to understand the instruction manual and warnings.
Ergonomics 1.9
According to the ADAC, the car seat has a good leg rest, good padding, and is a convenient seat, with there being a good view for the child to see outside of the window when seated. The car seat does take up space though so this particular product may be more convenient for larger vehicles. We are happy to help with sizing, so get in touch if you have any queries!
Additional notes
The Cybex Cloud T + Base T has a very low pollution level and is able to be machine washed. The ADAC also praised the good workmanship. It was stated that removing the cover is slightly complicated, however this is not a major issue.
Joie Every Stage R129
Suitability: Birth to approx. 12 years
3.1 - Satisfactory
Features:
- 4-in-1 car seat
- Well-marked and colour coded
- Meets the highest ECE R129/03 safety standard, including side-impact testing, and meets i-Size certification in forward-facing belted booster mode
- Steel reinforced frame
- 6 recline positions
- Uses the Grow-with-me infant body and head support
- Uses the custom Harness Hideaway compartments
- Mesh pocket on the side for storage
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.4
The ADAC state that there is very low risk of injury in a side crash but an average risk of injury if there was a front crash. The belt routing is good and the seat remained stable in vehicle.
Service 3.4
The ADAC deemed the service of the Joie Every Stage R129 as sufficient, however they did note that the seat installation is complex, as well as strapping in the child. They found that due to this there is an increased risk of operating errors. This being an issue is down to personal preference of the customer. Anyhow, they did write how the instructions and warnings for the seat were easy to understand.
Ergonomics 2.0
The ergonomics of this car seat are good as it has a good amount of padding, space for the child and it is in a convenient sitting position. However, the ADAC state that the leg rest is not optimal and that there are increased space requirements for this seat. The child's view of outside is obstructed, possibly by the side protection.
Additional notes
The pollution level is low and overall it has good workmanship. The cover is easy to remove and can be machine washed.
Cybex Sirona T + Base T
Suitability: Birth to 4 years
2.3 - Good
Features:
- From birth to approx. 4 years
- Optional intuitive ISOFIX Base T
- All-round air ventilation system
- 360° rotation that smoothly rotates towards the car door
- Removable newborn inlay which provides a near-flat lying position, allowing for the use of the car seat from birth in the rear-facing position
- Simpler onboarding
- The five recline positions of Sirona T i-Size can be easily adjusted with just one hand, freeing up your other hand for different tasks. This feature works in both rear and forward-facing positions
- 25% more side impact protection
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.7
The Cybex Sirona T + Base T has good belt routing and there is a low risk of injury in a side crash and front crash. The ADAC also found that the car seat is stable in the vehicle.
Service 2.9
This product receieved satisfactory in service. The instructions and warnings were easy to understand, yet there was a slight risk of incorrect operation as seat installation and strapping in the child is slightly complicated.
Ergonomics 1.9
The car seat is in a convenient seating position for the child however their view to outside is obstructed. The car seat is large however uses the space in an acceptable way, bare this in mind if you have a small car. The leg support is not the best however it does have good padding.
Additional notes
The ADAC found low pollution levels and said how the seat is well made with its good workmanship. The cover is easy to clean and machine washable, however it is slightly difficult to remove.
And that's it for our selection of 2023's ADAC car seats! Hopefully you'll have seen something to pique your interest. With such a selection spanning from birth right up until 12 years old, you may have even found two seats to last your little one! Which car seats have you got your eye on?
MORE ON THE BLOG
If you can't find your seat on the list fear not, all seats rated very good, good and satisfactory since 2015 can still be recommended.
Want to know which seats made it to previous year's ADAC tests? Check out our previous blog posts on ADAC:
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Spring 2021
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Summer 2019
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Summer 2018
Ready to start prepping for your new arrival? Check out our Newborn Buying Guide for our ultimate checklist of items to prepare before baby arrives.
MORE ON THE BLOG
If you can't find your seat on the list fear not, all seats rated very good, good and satisfactory since 2015 can still be recommended.
Want to know which seats made it to previous year's ADAC tests? Check out our previous blog posts on ADAC:
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Spring 2022
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Autumn 2021
Have some of these products? Let us know how you like them on our socials or leave a review!
Are you wanting to stock up for the due date but hesitant to purchase due to current lack of space, having to manage a budget or just need more time to decide on the nursery room layout? We offer our customers a free of charge Nursery Plan to hold all your baby goods till you are ready to pay and collect. For more information about our free Nursery Plan service click here or visit us in store to chat to one of our friendly team members.
Want to learn more about the best products for your little one? Check out our posts below:
Products for making life with a new baby easier & safer
A Complete Baby Carrier Guide: Harnessing the Power of Babywearing