10 Best Rear Facing Toddler Car Seat 2025 in the United States

The Graco Extend2Fit Convertible Car Seat is a versatile option that grows with your child, supporting rear-facing use from 4 to 50 pounds and forward-facing up to 100 pounds. A standout feature is its adjustable extension panel, which adds up to 5 inches of extra legroom, allowing toddlers to stay rear-facing longer—a key safety recommendation. It meets rigorous safety standards with side-impact testing and features Graco's ProtectPlus system for protection in multiple crash types.

Installation is straightforward thanks to the push-button LATCH system, which clicks securely into place, making it easier for parents to install correctly. Comfort is thoughtfully addressed with a 10-position adjustable headrest, a 6-position recline, and fuss-free harness storage that keeps straps out of the way when getting your child in and out. The harness adjusts together with the headrest in one motion, simplifying use as your child grows. Cleaning is convenient since the seat cover is machine washable.

At about 20.6 pounds and dimensions of roughly 21 x 19 x 24.5 inches, it fits most vehicles well but is somewhat bulky, which could be a consideration for smaller cars. It excels for families wanting a long-lasting rear-facing seat with ample legroom and easy installation, though those with very limited vehicle space might find it a tight fit. It provides strong safety, comfort, and practical features that make it a popular choice for parents looking for a reliable convertible car seat.

The Graco Extend2Fit Kenzie 2-in-1 Convertible Car Seat is an excellent choice for parents looking for a safe and adaptable rear-facing car seat for their toddler. It supports a wide weight range, from 4 to 50 pounds for rear-facing and up to 65 pounds when converted to forward-facing, making it suitable for both infants and toddlers.

The car seat's steel construction and adherence to US FMVSS 213 crash test standards ensure robust safety, while the Graco ProtectPlus Engineered design adds extra security features like an adjustable headrest and a 5-point harness system. The side-impact testing further enhances its safety profile. One standout feature is the additional 5 inches of legroom for rear-facing children, which can considerably increase comfort during long rides.

The car seat is also designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easier to handle and install. The push-button InRight LATCH system simplifies the installation process, ensuring a secure fit with an audible click. The fuss-free harness storage pockets are a thoughtful touch, keeping the straps out of the way when placing your child in the seat. However, the car seat's dimensions (21.5” D x 19.5” W x 23.5” H) may be a tight fit for smaller vehicles, and at 19.25 pounds, it is not the lightest option on the market. Cleaning the seat should be relatively straightforward, but its intricate features might require more effort compared to simpler models.

The Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 car seat is designed to grow with your child, supporting rear-facing use from 4 to 40 pounds, forward-facing from 26.5 to 65 pounds, and booster mode up to 100 pounds. This wide range means it can be a long-lasting option as your toddler grows. Safety is a strong point here, with Graco’s ProtectPlus system that adds extra protection in different types of crashes. Installation is made easy and fast with the SnugLock technology, which many parents will appreciate for getting a secure fit in under a minute.

The standout feature is the one-hand rotating mechanism that lets you turn the seat from rear-facing to forward-facing without hassle, making it much easier to get your child in and out of the car. Comfort is also well considered, with a 10-position recline and a harness system that adjusts without needing to be rethreaded, so you can quickly get the perfect fit as your child grows. The seat is made with soft polyester, which should be comfortable for toddlers, and the fabric is generally easy to clean.

At about 20 pounds, it’s not the lightest seat, but it’s solid and feels sturdy thanks to a steel-reinforced frame. The size is fairly compact for a convertible seat, but it’s worth checking how it fits in your vehicle, especially if you have limited backseat space. One limitation is that it uses the LATCH system only, which is common but might not fit all car models equally well. This seat is a convenient, safe, and adaptable choice for parents looking for a rear-facing car seat that transitions easily as their child grows.