Do you have a Mazda3 at home and little one’s that you would like to take for a ride? Get the best car seat for Mazda 3 for your bundles of joy by reading my detailed reviews below.
Car seats become an integral part of your car if you have kids. According to US road laws, installing a car seat in the car’s rear is imperative if you travel with your child. The seat ensures the safety of your child during the collision and keeps them confined and comfortable at the same time.
It’s one of my duties to drop the kids at school while going to the office, and honestly, I have two very naughty kids. It’s almost impossible to keep them together under the same roof without any problem. Hence I was looking for some of the toughest car seats for my little menaces.
I searched for the whole weekend and listed these best car seats for my Mazda 3. They are all strongly built, safe, and comfortable for my kids. Also, they all are FAA-approved; hence I can rest assured regarding the safety of my kids.
I have researched these car seats myself and tried and tested them on my LOs. I have also included:
- In-depth research of their critical features like safety, comfort, adjustability, and ease of use.
- Pros and cons of each car seat.
- Things to look for before buying a car seat for your Mazda 3.
- And important questions related to the topic that should not be left unanswered.
You might also like to read: Top 5 Choices For The Best Car Seat For Hyundai Elantra
How To Select The Best Car Seat For Mazda 3?
Safety
There is no point in buying a car seat if it doesn’t have various safety features. First of all, your car seat must be an FAA-approved product. Next, it must pass multiple crash tests such as front, rear, side, and rollover tests.
Also, it must reduce the force of any high-impact crash and keep the kids safe no matter what. The seats on my list have all these safety features and promise to keep your child safe even during unfavorable circumstances.
Also read: Some great tire options for a Mazda 3
Comfort
The next best thing that a car seat must possess is comfort. Your child might spend hours inside the car seat; hence it should be very comfortable. It must comprise a breathable material to keep them cool even during summers.
There should be enough padding to keep them away from its mainframe. Also, it will be an add-on if the shoulder straps and the leg belts are equally padded, and lastly, it comes with a head and body pillow. The seats on my list have not all but either of the features mentioned here.
Adjustability
Adjustable features take your child’s comfort a notch ahead. Most of the car seats have adjustable headrests. Some have only five-position adjustability, while some offer up to 12 position adjustability.
I would recommend higher headrest adjustability as you will have to increase the height of the headrest as your child grows.
Also, the backrest of the seat must be reclining. The higher the number of reclining positions will be, the better it will be for your child to sit comfortably. The seats I selected on my list have all these adjustable features.
You might also like to read: What Is The Best Car Seat For Q5?
Installation
Most of the seats today have a LATCH system for installation. This system is the simplest installation system for seats, and you can hear an audible click sound which confirms that the seat has been placed in the right place.
Hence look for a seat that has a LATCH system for installation. All the car seats on my list have a LATCH system.
Other features
Never ignore the additional features your car seats have to offer before deciding. Such as removable and washable cup holders, baby insert pads, head, and body pillows, removable and washable covers, and soft upholstery material, all these features are essential features.
The seat must also have manual and simple label instructions for installation: a color-coded belt system and no protruding parts. The seats on my list have all these special features.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. Can a car seat fit in a Mazda 3?
Yes, upto 2 car seats can easily fit in a Mazda 3. You can put two car seats in the car’s rear, however adding three in it will be a challenge because the spacing between the latches on the seats on the driver and the passenger sides is too little to allow for a third car seat in the middle.
#2. Is the Mazda 3 very small?
Yes, Mazda 3 is a smaller car than other sedan cars of the same league. It only offers 13.2 cubic feet of cargo room, which is the biggest letdown of Mazda as the family car.
#3. Is the Mazda 3 a reliable car?
Yes, Mazda 3 is a reliable car with only a few complaints over 17 years. It has scored high in all the significant reliability ratings.
You might also like to read: 7 Best Convertible Car Seats For Jeep Wrangler
#4. How do you install a carseat in a Mazda3?
It has a LATCH system on the two rear seats behind the passenger side and the driver side. You can hook up your car seats into the Latches provided, but you might have to adjust the head restraint (or even take them out if needed) to adjust for the height.
#5. Is the Mazda3 fast?
Yes, with a top speed of 122mph and running upto 62mph in 10.4 seconds, the Mazda 3 is a zippy car. The auto version is slightly slower, it will take 10.8 seconds to reach the same speed.
#6. Is Mazda 3 hatchback all wheel drive?
It is available as an optional that you can take. While the Mazda3 comes from the factory with a front wheel drive, you can opt for AWD on nearly every trim.
#7. What cars compete with a Mazda 3?
Chevrolet Cruze, Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, and Volkswagen Jetta are the cars that are the close competitors of Mazda 3.
#8. How do you change the memory in a Mazda seat?
On the car’s menu, you have to go to the active driving display to get the right driving position. Once you get there, just the press the button maked as “Set”. You will hear a beep after some time. You can then press either of the two buttons to set the memory.
You might also like to read: How To Choose The Best Car Seat For Jeep Compass
Best Car Seat For Mazda 3
#1 Graco Contender Convertible Car Seat
Features
- Safety: 9.8/10
- Comfort: 9.7/10
- Adjustability: 9.6/10
- Installation: 9.8/10
- Other features: 9.7/10
Technical Specifications
- Installation type: LATCH system
- Material: EPS foam, plastic, polyester
- Orientation: Rear-facing
- Size: 27 x 20.75 x 26 inches (L X W X H)
- Modes: 2 in 1 mode
- Maximum weight capacity: 5 to 65 pounds
- Headrest positions: 8 positions
- Reclining positions: None
Bottom Line
Graco car seats are well known for passing all the safety tests. This Graco car seat might not be the same as the high-class car seat manufactured by the company, but it is far better than the cheap ones on the market. Its safety features make it the best car seat and allow it to hold a place on my list. The seat comprises high-grade energy absorbing EPS foam, which can sustain even the hardest crashes. The seat is also crash-tested hence safe and reliable for your kids.
Pros
- The seat is temperature, impact, and crash tested.
- It has easy-to-read labels at the back that helps to place the harness easily.
- The eight-position headrest grows with the child, needs no rethreading, and ensures maximum comfort and support.
- There is a cup holder to the seat’s right, which is removable and easily washable.
- The seat is perfect for a rear-facing child (5-40 pounds) and a forward-facing child (22-65 pounds)
- It is an FAA-approved car seat.
Cons
- The seat does not have any reclining position.
- Some users complained that the material of the product was a little flimsy.
Features In Detail
- Safety: the seat is engineered with the famous Graco ProtectPlus. This seat undergoes numeral car crash tests, confirming that your child is safe from any rollover, frontal, side, and rear impacts. Also, the EPS energy-absorbing foam and the FAA approval make it the safest car seat in the lot. While I was looking at its manual, its safety feature grabbed my attention, and I was confident when I made the purchase.
- Comfort: the seat comes with an infant insert pillow that helps keep your child comfortable. Also, there is padding all over the seat’s body and at the harness and the leg belt that keeps your child comfortable.
- Adjustability: the headrest is adjustable at eight positions, and you can do it without any heavy tools or user manuals. You need no-rethreading to adjust the harness and the headrest. Also, the seat can be easily transformed from rear-facing to forward-facing without much of a hassle.
- Installation: the car seat comes with a user’s manual, which is easy to understand. The manual contains simple instructions to install the seat using the LATCH system. I could install this car seat without any help or hassle or call the company’s customer service again and again.
- Other features: additional features such as the cup holder, safe adjust harness system, easy to read level indicator, removable head, body support, and machine washable seat pads make it the best in the lot.
Also read: Which car seats are ideal for a Honda Civic?
#2 Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Car Seat
Features
- Safety: 9.4/10
- Comfort: 9.5/10
- Adjustability: 9.3/10
- Installation: 9.2/10
- Other features: 9.4/10
Technical Specifications
- Installation type: LATCH type
- Material: foam, plastic, polyester, steel
- Orientation: Forward Facing and Rear Facing
- Size: 21 x 19 x 29.2 inches (L X W X H)
- Modes: 2 in 1 mode
- Maximum weight capacity: 5 to 65 pounds
- Headrest positions: 9 positions
- Reclining positions: 9 positions
Bottom Line
This car seat’s ease of use has made me its biggest admirer. First of all, the LATCH system offers easy installation. The no-rethread harness makes it simple to adjust the headrest. The push-button release helps to remove the seat quickly for changing cars. The locksure belt system offers easy belt installation, and the transition between the rear to front-facing can never be this simple.
Pros
- Nine position headrest adjustment with a no-rethread system offers maximum comfort.
- You can position the recliner in 9 different positions.
- The cup holder is removable and dishwasher safe.
- The seat cover is also removable and washable.
- The material it comprises, such as steel, plastic, foam, and fabric, makes it highly durable.
- The steel frame comes with two layers of side impact protection.
- The seat will last for almost ten years; hence you don’t need to buy one while your child is growing.
- Use it as a rear-facing (5-40 pounds) or forward-facing (22-65 pounds)
- Zip-off seat cushions are easy to remove, wash and replace.
- It is an FAA-approved car seat.
Cons
- Some users might find the seat to be hefty.
- Some users complained that the material of the product is flimsy.
Features In Detail
- Safety: the seat consists of a reinforced steel frame which makes the seat safe during high impact collisions. The seat is covered with energy-absorbing EPS foam. DuoGuard has two layers of side impact protection with a deep ridged shell. Also, it is FAA-approved; hence you can trust the brand blindly, just like me.
- Comfort: the manufacturer has made extra efforts to make the car seat comfortable for your child. The seat is padded from all over, the material is breathable, and the harness and the leg belts are padded. It comes with a removable newborn insert pillow for added comfort. My kids could use it with any issues.
- Adjustability: the headrest is adjustable up to 9 different heights as per the kids’ height. Also, the recliner can be reclined to 9 comfortable positions. Additionally, the transition between rear to forward-facing is effortless. I could adjust all its features with no help from outside.
- Installation: The LATCH system offers easy installation. The no-rethread harness makes it simple to adjust the headrest. The locksure belt system offers easy belt installation, and the transition between the rear to front-facing can never be this simple.
- Other features: the seat comes with a removable and washable cup holder, car seat pads, and covers. It also has a removable newborn insert pillow. Also, it comes with manuals and labels for easy installation and uninstallation.
You might also like to read: When Do You Remove An Infant Insert From Car Seat?
#3 Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
Features
- Safety: 8.9/10
- Comfort: 8.8/10
- Adjustability: 8.7/10
- Installation: 8.6/10
- Other features: 8.7/10
Technical Specifications
- Installation type: LATCH system
- Material: stainless steel, plastic, fabric upholstery
- Orientation: Rear Facing
- Size: 29.75 x 18.13 x 16.25 inches (L X W X H)
- Modes: 2 in 1 mode
- Maximum weight capacity: 5 to 65 pounds
- Headrest positions: 5 positions
- Reclining positions: 3 positions
Bottom Line
If you are looking for one of the most affordable options, you must go for the Safety 1st Jive. I found this car seat very budget-friendly, yet it was loaded with great features. It has top-notch safety features, sleek design, various adjustable features, and sturdy material, making it a good buy.
Pros
- It can support a 65-pound child without any hassle.
- The seat has a 5-point harness type.
- It passed the tests for protection from side impact with flying colors.
- Comes with a removable head and body pillow.
- It fits three across in the rear of most vehicles
- It exceeds the federal safety standards.
- It comes with two removable dishwasher-safe cup holders.
- It offers a high back booster mode for solid back support and comfort.
- The fabric is plush, soft, and offers maximum comfort.
Cons
- There are not many reclining positions.
- The seat is not very big to accommodate healthy kids.
Features In Detail
- Safety: This car seat from Safety 1st is an FAA-approved car seat, which stamps its safety features. Additionally, it comprises sturdy stainless steel material and energy-absorbing foam that can take care of high-impact crashes without hurting the baby. Also, it passes the test of protection from side impacts hence offering more safety.
- Comfort: the manufacturers left no stone unturned while designing its comfort features. The seat comprises soft and plush upholstery material which is breathable. Also, it’s padded from all the sides and comes with extra pillows for more comfort. The shoulder and the leg belts are correctly padded and are not harsh on your child’s skin. My children could sit with harness on for long hours without complaining about anything.
- Adjustability: the headrest of the seat is easily adjustable into five positions, and it grows with your child. You don’t need to unthread it to lift or push it down. Also, the recliner is adjustable. You can adjust it in three unique and comfortable positions.
- Installation: the seat’s manual and label are self-explanatory, and you don’t need to spend hours understanding the instructions. It’s simple to install it with its LATCH system with an audible click, and you can uninstall it with a button press. Also, it’s easy to install the harness and the belts. I could do all these things all alone without any help.
- Other features: 5-point harness, removable body and head pillow, lightweight, two removable cup holders, sleek design, and high weight capacity. All these features make it one of the best car seats.
Also read: The ideal car seats for a Mini Cooper
#4 Evenflo EveryFit 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
Features
- Safety: 8.4/10
- Comfort: 8.3/10
- Adjustability: 8.2/10
- Installation: 8.3/10
- Other features: 8.4/10
Technical Specifications
- Installation type: LATCH and seat belt
- Material: polyester, plastic
- Orientation: convertible
- Size: 22.25 x 19 x 32.5 inches (L X W X H)
- Modes: 4 IN 1 mode
- Maximum weight capacity: 4 to 120 pounds
- Headrest positions: 12 positions
- Reclining positions: 3 rear-facing and one forward-facing position
Bottom Line
This is the most comfortable car seat on my list. First of all, the airflow mesh fabric keeps your child cool even during summers. The four reclining positions prevent any head slump if your child dozes off in between the drive. The transition from rear to forward-facing and booster is pretty simple, and all the positions are very comfortable for kids. It also comes with removable cushions, cup holders, a removable snack tray, and sufficient legroom. My kids never complained while they were in the seat about the comfort.
Pros
- The built-in multiple shoulder harness positions offer a better fit.
- The seat has airflow vents that provide a temperature-regulated journey that is comfortable.
- Removable seat pads are easy to clean.
- The advanced Side Impact protection can reduce crash forces by up to 30%.
- The polyester upholstery makes it easy to clean and durable.
- It can accommodate kids of different shapes and sizes to multiple positions.
- It meets all federal safety standards.
- Comes with three rear-facing and one forward-facing recline positions for your child’s comfort.
Cons
- Some users complained that the material of the seat is pretty flimsy.
- Some users had issues installing it. Well, I faced no such problems.
Features In Detail
- Safety: This car seat offers maximum safety and security, with numerous FMVSS and ASTM tests. It has multiple layers of side-impact protection and is made of the most sturdy materials. Also, it is FAA-approved; hence I was pretty confident about my purchase.
- Comfort: The seat has removable cushions, cup holders, a removable snack tray, and sufficient legroom. The four reclining positions prevent any head slump if your child prefers sleeping in between the drive. The airflow mesh fabric keeps your child cool. The transition from rear to forward-facing and booster is pretty simple, and all the positions are very comfortable for kids. I was pretty satisfied with these comfort features.
- Adjustability: You can position the headrest in 12 unique positions and the recliner in three rear-facing and forward-facing positions. Also, you don’t need to rethread to change the height of the headrest.
- Installation: it is easy to install the seat with its SureSafe quick connector LATCH system. Also, it is easy to install the harness and the belts with the help of an instruction manual.
- Other features: 2 cup holders, one removable snack tray, a high weight capacity of 120 pounds in booster mode, and easy-to-use connectors. All these features make it a unique product.
You might also like to read: 6 Best Car Seat For Dodge Ram Quad Cab
#5 Britax Allegiance 3 Stage Convertible Car Seat
Features
- Safety: 7.8/10
- Comfort: 7.9/10
- Adjustability: 7.8/10
- Installation: 7.7/10
- Other features: 7.9/10
Technical Specifications
- Installation type: LATCH connectors
- Material: alloy steel, fabric, plastic
- Orientation: Forward Facing, Rear Facing
- Size: 26 x 18.5 x 21 inches (HxWxD)
- Modes: 2 in 1
- Maximum weight capacity: 5 to 65 pounds
- Headrest positions: 10 position
- Reclining positions: 3 position
Bottom Line
The Britax Allegiance has some great adjustable features, making it worth buying. Its headrest can be positioned in 10 unique positions without uninstalling or rethreading the headrest. You can also position the backrest in the three most comfortable reclining positions.
Pros
- Its safety system exceeds federal standards.
- Push-button latch connectors make installation a simple affair.
- V-shaped tether, impact-absorbing base, steel frame, and side-impact protection enhance its safety features.
- It comes with a quick adjustable feature.
- It is easy to remove the car seat cover without touching the harness.
Cons
- The seat cover is not machine washable.
- Some users might have issues with its installation system.
Features In Detail
- Safety: The Britax Allegiance is embedded with all the safety features essential to keep your child safe. It is FAA-approved and comes with a V-shaped tether, impacts absorbing base, steel frame, and side-impact protection. All these features enhance its safety features. I felt pretty confident when I bought this one for my kids.
- Comfort: The seats are pretty comfortable as they are covered with soft and plush upholstery. Also, the padding all over keeps your child safe and comfortable. Also, the adjustable headrest and recliner positions enhance comfort.
- Adjustability: the headrest and the backrests are adjustable. You can change the position as and when your child grows. Also, with the adjustable harness, you can firmly make your child sit at a place without much movement.
- Installation: The seat is easy to install and uninstall with the LATCH installation system. You can easily fit it into other cars without much of a hassle.
- Other features: the seat comes with cup holders, removable covers, insert pads, and all at a very affordable price.
Also read: Volkswagon T5 – which car seat will fit perfectly?
My Top Three Picks
A car seat ensures your child’s safety; hence you must give extra time and put in some extra effort to select the best one from the array of products in the market. A wise selection will keep your child safe and last longer and save you extra time and money.
Let me highlight three options as a final summary of my review:
The best option is the Graco Contender Convertible Car Seat. This is because its safety features make it the best car seat and allow it to hold a place on my list. The seat comprises high-grade energy absorbing EPS foam, which can sustain even the hardest crashes. The seat is also crash-tested hence safe and reliable for your kids.
The Chicco NextFit Zip Convertible Car Seat is another great choice. It offers padding from all over, the material is breathable, and the harness and the leg belts are padded. It comes with a removable newborn insert pillow for added comfort.
If you are looking for a value for money option, you can also consider the Safety 1st Jive 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, which offers top-notch safety features, sleek design, various adjustable features, and sturdy material, making it a good buy at a very reasonable price point.
Thank you for reading my review of these car seats. Whatever option you choose, remember that safety and the baby’s comfort are the two most important things in selecting a car seat.
Also read: Best convertible car seats for a Jeep Wrangler
Also read: Choosing a car seat for Jeep Compass? Let us guide you.
