Evenflo; $129-$169; www.evenflo.com.

This convertible car seat accommodates babies from 5 to 35 pounds in its rear-facing position, and children from 20 to 50 pounds in the forward-facing position. Our testers loved the sliding harness adjustment system that eliminates the need to rethread harness straps as baby grows or when seating a larger child. Tightening the chest harness requires only a twist of one of the easy-to-reach knobs on either side of the seat. The crotch buckle has two strap positions that adjust easily as your child grows. The seat comes with comfy body and infant head support pillows, and also reclines to several positions by adjusting an accessible lever along the base. New EPP energy-absorbing foam enhances passenger safety. Last, but not least: all pads are removable and washable!

“I am so happy with this car seat. Its best features are how easy it is to slide the straps around the child and to install the seat to the car’s latch system.”
– Parent Tester