ADAC Car Seat Test Results Autumn 2021
Looking for the best car seat to keep your little one safe? Find out the safest car seats in our breakdown of the rigorous ADAC test's winners this year.
ADAC Car Seat Test Results Autumn 2021
Looking for the best car seat to keep your little one safe? Find out the safest car seats in our breakdown of the rigorous ADAC test's winners this year.
Looking for a new car seat this winter? Well luckily for you we have the latest news from the ADAC's Autumn car seat test results. For the car seat newbies amongst us, ADAC is a vehicle insurance company that tests the safety of car seats to standards that far exceed the standard EU regulations. So, if a car seat is recommended by ADAC, it’s definitely worth your attention.
The ADAC test results are released in German, but don't you worry, we've done the hard work so you don't have to. No need to deal with the terror that is Google Translate, we've summarised everything in English right here for you.
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 diligent 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 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 relflection from 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 season's reflection discussed seats that grow with your child. ADAC explained that the four seats that were placed in the sufficient category did not meet all of their requirements in regards to operation methods.
As previously mentioned, the ADAC tests are rigorous so although car seats can be marked sufficient, it has passed the UN safety regulations for them to be allowed to be sold to consumers. Multi-stage seats can be a great cost-effective alternative due to their one-time purchase and can also be passed down to younger siblings. However, do keep in mind that the sizes adjust to set heights so there is a possibility that it might not be the right fit for your child as they grow older.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the front runners from this year’s ADAC testing for you to peruse, all of which are available at Baby&Co.
Keep scrolling for more information, and to what ADAC had to say about some of your favourite seats!
Axkid One +
Suitability: Birth to approx. 7 years/ 40 - 125cm
Features:
- Extended rear-facing capabilities (up to 125cm)
- Described as the safest ISOFIX car seat
- Plus test approved
- Cushioned newborn inlay
- Spacious and adjustable seat
- Sliding rails design eliminates need for swivel function
- Safety frame can act as handle for older children to get into the seat themselves
- Innovative lightweight design
- Shock-absorbing materials
- Sleepwell System allows the seat angle to be adjusted all the way to 42 degrees
- Ventilation within the seat unit
- Quick and secure installation
- Self tightening anti-rotation bar
- Audio installation indicator
- Seat itself weighs less than 10kg
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.6
ADAC tested the Axkid One + and found that there is a low risk of injury to a child in a frontal crash and a very low risk of injury in a side-on collision, so parents considering this seat can be certain that it will keep little one protected.
They commended the belt system for the seat and concluded that the Axkid One + is stable when within the vehicle. In terms of security, ADAC couldn’t fault this car seat.
Service 2.6
ADAC concluded that there is a low risk of misuse with the Axkid One + and 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.
They did find that buckling the child up was a little more complex, although that’s a small price to pay for security.
Ergonomics 2.9
ADAC praised the leg rest on the Axkid One + as well as the cushioned padding of the seat.
They also found the seating position to be convenient for comfort.
Their notes in terms of weaknesses with this seat were that it took up a larger footprint in the car than would be ideal, and also they felt that the child’s view outside the vehicle was obstructed somewhat by the side of the seat, impacting the child's overall experience in the seat.
We feel it’s worth noting that 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 which aspect is more important to you.
Additional notes
After testing the materials, ADAC found that there is little to no risk of pollutants within the fabrics. They also noted that the cover was easy to remove for cleaning which is ideal for parents of mucky pups.
Cybex Pallas G i-Size
Suitability: 15months (approx) -12 years/ 76-150cm
Features:
- R129 i-Size safety
- Impact Shield technology
- Is affixed using both ISOFIX and a top tether for maximum security
- Air ventilation system to keep little one cool
- One-hand seat recline
- Linear Side Impact Protection System Plus
- 10 years of usability
- Easy to secure child with just a click
- 3 position reclining headrest
- Removable and hand-washable cover
- Visual installation indicators
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.1
In terms of security, ADAC found that there is a very low risk of injury in a side-on collision when using the Cybex Pallas G. However, they did state that there is an average risk of injury in a frontal crash.
That being said, an average risk of injury in a 64km/h collision is a good statistic when you consider that studies show most frontal collisions occur at a much lower speed than this, hence the EU testing standard speed being lower to reflect this.
To put it in perspective: It’s unlikely you’ll be in a collision, it’s very unlikely you’ll be in a 64km/h collision as your brakes will significantly reduce your speed going into a frontal crash, and even if by some stroke of awful fortune you are in a 64km/h collision, the risk to your little one is only average.
Furthermore, ADAC commended the harness system and again, confirmed that the seat is stable within the vehicle. So you can rest assured that your child will be safe, stable and secure in the Cybex Pallas G.
Service 1.9
ADAC concluded that there is a low risk of mis-installation with the Cybex Pallas G, with instructions that are clear and easy to understand. That being said, they did highlight that the seat installation was quite complex, so if this is the car seat for you, you might want to put a little time aside for installing it.
Ergonomics 1.8
ADAC praised the leg rest of the Cybex Pallas G and its ‘exemplary’ seating position. They also liked the soft materials used for the seat.
Their criticisms of this seat were, like with the Axkid One +, that the seat required a lot of room in the vehicle and that it impaired the child’s view of the outside so this is something to bear in mind if you have a smaller vehicle.
Additional notes
The materials used in the Cybex Pallas G were concluded to contain very low pollution. Additionally, ADAC points out that the cover was nice and easy to remove for cleaning, so you can always keep this seat fresh for your little one.
Cybex Solution S i-Fix
Suitability: From 3- 12 years (approx)/ 15kg - 36kg
Features:
- Suitable from 3 to 12 years
- Height adjustable headrest
- Reclining headrest
- Linear Side Impact Protection (L.S.P)
- Ventilation system
- Reclining backrest
- Energy-absorbing shell
- ISOFIX connection
- Extra-wide and deep seat cushion
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.8
The Cybex Solution S i-Fix scored very highly in the ADAC tests being only a mere 0.3 points off of the ‘Very Good’ coveted rating. ADAC didn’t have a single criticism about the seat, and those last 0.3 points presumably rested on the scale of the positives- for example, the distinction between ‘low risk’ and ‘very low risk’.
In terms of security, the Cybex Solution S i-Fix presented a low risk of injury in a frontal crash and a very low risk of injury in a side crash. ADAC praised the seats ‘optimal’ belt routing and confirmed that the seat was very stable within the test vehicle.
Service 1.8
ADAC confirmed that there is a low risk of misuse with the Cybex Solution S i-Fix and applauded the ease in which the child can be buckled in, how simple the seat is to install and how straightforward the instructions are.
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 the Cybex Solution S i-Fix has a good leg rest, soft, comfy upholstery and an ‘exemplary’ seating position. ADAC applauded how little space the seat takes up, which is ideal for parents pressed for room in their vehicles.
Additional notes
The material tests on the Cybex Solution S i-Fix deduced that there was very low pollution in the fabrics. Furthermore, the cover is easy to remove and wash so you can keep it nice and fresh for baby. ADAC recommends that you wash the cover before usage.
Britax Römer Baby-Safe 3 i-Size
Suitability: Birth to 15 months/ 40- 83 cm
Features:
- Suitable from birth to 15 months
- Ergonomic patented integral lie-flat recline
- Quick remove cover
- UPF50+ sun canopy
- Easy access when used with Britax Flex iSense Base (sold separately)
- Newborn insert with removable, energy absorbing foam pads
- 5 point harness
- Easy adjustable headrest and harness
- Audible click to ensure correct installation
- Adjustable handle
- Comfortable and stylish premium covers
- Belted or ISOFIX installation
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.6
The ADAC test found that a child seated in the Britax Römer Baby-Safe 3 i-Size would have a very low risk of injury in a frontal crash and a low risk of injury in a side crash.
Service 2.6
In terms of serviceability, ADAC complimented the easy to read instructions which helped with ease of seat installation. They also highlight how the seat is approved for use in certain aircraft, making travelling abroad (covid depending!) easy. Remember to always check with your aircraft on its rules on bringing child seats.
Nevertheless, ADAC did find the method of buckling up the child a little complex which made the company slightly increase the risk of incorrect operation.
Ergonomics 1.7
Ergonomics-wise, this seat performed well in the ADAC testing. They praised the leg rest on the Britax Römer Baby-Safe 3 i-Size, the convenient seating position and they also liked that the seat did not need a lot of space in the back of the vehicle.
Their only critisims on the seat was that the upholstery was on the thin side and the seat impaired view for the child to the outside.
Additional notes
When bundled with the Flex Base iSENSE, the overall rating is a 2.5. The mark down is due to the amount of space needed when installaling the flex in your vehicle.
Like the previous two seats, the Britax Römer Baby-Safe 3 i-Size was noted for having an easily removable cover, and ADAC found very low pollution within the fabrics used.
Britax Römer Baby-Safe i-SENSE
Suitability: Birth to 15 months/ 40- 83 cm
Features:
- Birth to 15 months
- Ergonomic patented integral lie-flat recline
- Quick remove cover
- UPF50+ Sun Canopy
- Easy access when used with Britax Flex iSENSE Base (sold separately)
- Newborn insert with removable, energy absorbing foam pads
- Safety lights
- Installation lights
- Comfort lights
- 5 point harness
- Easy adjustable headrest and harness
- Audible click to ensure correct installation
- Adjustable handle
- Comfortable and stylish premium covers
- Belted or ISOFIX installation
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.6
The Britax Romer Baby-Safe i-SENSE passed with flying colours in the safety tests, with very low risk of injury in a frontal crash and low risk of injury in a side crash. The seat was comended for its good belt run and stabilty.
Service 2.6
The ADAC praised the easy seat installation and the layout of the operation instructions but marked down the score due to the complexity of the buckling system, something to keep in mind when purchasing.
Ergonomics 1.7
The test pointed out the great leg rest option, the convient seating position and how the seat does not require much space in the back of the vehical; making it a great choice for parents with limited car space. The ADAC's only critisims on the seat was that the upholstery was on the thin side and the seat impaired view for the child to the outside.
Additional notes
As with the previous Britax Römer seat, when bundled with the Flex Base iSENSE, the overall rating is a 2.5. The mark down is due to the amount of space needed when installaling the flex in your vehicle. The Britax Römer Baby-Safe i-SENSE was noted for having an easily removable cover, and ADAC found very low pollution within the fabrics used.
Recaro Mako Elite 2
Suitability: From 3.5 years - 12 years
Features:
- Suitable from 3.5 years
- Additional recline positions
- Wider headrest
- i-Size protection
- ISOFIX connectors
- Advanced Side Impact Protection
- Smart Protection Wings
- Seating foam
- Height-adjustable backrest
- Integrated headrest speakers
- Air ventilation system
- Detachable protectors
- Extendable leg rest
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 2.0
The ADAC tests showed that the Recaro Mako Elite 2 posed a very low risk of injury in a side-on collision, which illustrates the effectiveness of the extensive side-impact safety features.
The tests also revealed that there was an average risk of injury in a frontal collision. With a good belt course, ensuring optimal placement over your child’s hips and chest and with the seat being stable within the vehicle thanks to the ISOFIX connectors, the Recaro Mako Elite 2 is a great choice for your child.
Service 1.9
The last thing you’ll want as a parent is to spend a lot of money on a super-safe, all-singing, all-dancing car seat, only to install it incorrectly and put your child at risk.
ADAC tested the accessibility of the user manual, and assessed the risk of incorrect operation of the Recaro Mako Elite 2 and found the seat to pose a low risk of misuse, with the instructions being very easy to follow and the installation itself to be simple.
Additionally, ADAC noted that securing the child in the seat was straightforward, which is great in terms of convenience as well as safety.
Ergonomics 1.9
ADAC had no criticisms regarding the ergonomics of the Recaro Mako Elite 2, praising the ‘very good’ leg rest, the ‘very good’ padding, its very small footprint within the car itself and also commended that the child has a good view of the outside when sat in the seat.
ADAC was satisfied with the seating position of the child within the Recaro Mako Elite 2 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 Recaro Mako Elite 2. The covers are easy to remove and machine washable for your convenience.
Maxi Cosi Pebble 360
Suitability: Birth to approx. 15 months/ 40- 8cm
Features:
- Suitable from birth
- 360° swivelling seat
- FlexiSpin, one-hand rotation
- ClimaFlow comfort temperature regulation
- G-Cell side impact protection
- Easy-in harness
- i-Size safety
- Belted or ISOFIX installation
- Click & Go installation
- ISOFIX installation with support leg (sold separately)
What ADAC had to say:
Safety 1.3
This excellent car seat performed very well in the ADAC safety tests, with the evalutaion noting a very low risk of injury in both a frontal and side collision.
They found the seatbelt safe and the car seat very stable when installed in the vehicle.
Service 2.3
ADAC confirmed that the Maxi Cosi Pebble 360° posed a low risk of incorrect operation thanks to the easy-to-install seat and straightforward user manual.
They noted that for the typical day-to-day, it is very simple to secure your child in this seat. Perfect for parents who are always on-the-go!
ADAC's only criticism in this category was that the seat required a larger belt length when installing, so it's worth bearing this in mind.
Ergonomics 2.0
In regard to comfort for the child, ADAC noted that the Maxi Cosi Pebble 360° had a good leg rest and was made with snug fabrics. They noted that the seat holds the child in a suitable position with a lot of room for them to grow.
Additional notes
When combined with the FamilyFix 360 Base, the overall rating remains the same but with slight changes to the security rating by 0.3 points (Taking it to 1.6) This is due to the space required in the vechial to install the FamilyFix 360 Base.
The ADAC was satisfied with the quality and purity of the fabrics used for the Maxi Cosi Pebble 360°, noting that they contained very low pollution and that the fabrics were easy to remove for general housekeeping.
And that's it for our selection of this Autumn's ADAC forerunners! 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 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.