The 6 Best Newborn Car Seats in UK & Ireland for 2025

February 27, 2025 Hannah Evans

Choosing the best newborn car seat can feel like a daunting task for new parents. With so many options on the market, finding the safest, most comfortable, and most practical car seat for your little one is essential. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the six best newborn car seats available in the UK and Ireland for 2025, each designed to meet different needs and budgets.

We want to help you feel confident in your car seat purchase. That’s why we have put together a list of the top 6 best infant car seats in 2025 based on reliable product information and real customer feedback. We have determined the best car seat for your newborn based on safety, comfort, ease-of-use, price, and type. The first place winners in our six categories are:

Best 360 Car Seat for Newborns: Maxi-Cosi Emerald 360 Pro
Best Infant Car Seat Stroller Combo: Doona X Infant Car Seat & Stroller
Best Long-Term Car Seat: Joie Signature I-Spin XL
Best Affordable Car Seat for Newborns: Cybex Aton B2 i-Size
Best Newborn to Toddler Car Seat: Osann One 360 Deluxe i-Size with Isofix
Best Lightweight Infant Car Seat: Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna

Read on to find out all about our top picks and hear from real customers who have trusted them with their own newborns.

1. Best 360 Car Seat for Newborns: Maxi-Cosi Emerald 360 Pro

BASICS

Price: €480

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to 12 years (40-150 cm height, up to 36 kg weight)

Car Seat Weight: 12.7 kg

Dimensions: 72.5 L x 44.2 W x 80 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX

Rear Facing Until: Minimum of 15 months or 76 cm

Maxi Cosi Emerald 360 Pro is the only car seat featuring SlideTech® that your child can use from birth until they no longer need one — that’s a full 12 years of life. SlideTech® technology enables you to simply slide your child toward you, so you can comfortably get them in and out of the car. With FlexiSpin rotation on the FamilyFix 360 Pro slide out base, car seats can be rotated smoothly and easily, using only one hand. Simply lock, slide, spin and go!

SlideTech® offers parents an ergonomic solution, as you don’t need to fully bend into the car to install your child or the car seat. You can be confident that Maxi-Cosi’s revolutionary SlideTech® technology provides the best possible back support for both parent and child

SPECIAL FEATURES

Revolutionary SlideTech® technology - Revolutionary sliding car seat technology makes every day easier for parents. No backaches, head bangs or struggles. Simply slide, spin, and go!
One seat for every age - Emerald 360 Pro evolves and grows as your child does, securing their comfort and safety for a full 12 years of life.
Easy-in harness - The easy-in harness stays open and out of the way, and the hip and shoulder pads can be stored away without removing them when switching to booster mode.
ClimaFlow for temperature control - Designed with ventilation panels, breathable foam, and mesh fabrics to enhance air circulation and keep your child comfortable.
G-CELL Side Impact Protection - The always on, always activated G-CELL structure is built into the car seat’s side panels and headrest, spreading the impact and reducing injuries in the event of a side collision.
Multiple recline positions - With five recline positions, your child will always be comfortable on the go, whether they’re sitting up window-gazing or laid back and sleeping.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Lindsey

☆☆☆☆☆

Love this car seat. Little one is safe comfortable and goes from 0-12 years amazing. Read a lot of reviews before buying and found this car seat and was on sale too great. Didn't need to use the newborn insert as little one was 11 months when I purchased it. It looks great too.

Kay

☆☆☆☆☆

Great value and good quality product. Easy to install and adjust (in upright and tilt position) and harness fit. Rotation of the seat allows easy access which is very helpful. Babies seem comfortable in them too.

2. Best Infant Car Seat Stroller Combo: Doona X Infant Car Seat & Stroller

BASICS

Price: €599

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to approximately 15 months (40-85 cm height, up to 13 kg weight)

Car Seat & Stroller Weight: 8.3 kg

Unfolded Dimensions: 89.3 L x 44 W x 101 H cm

Folded Dimensions: 72.3 L x 44 W x 45.6 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX base or vehicle seat belt

Rear Facing Until: No forward facing option, only usable as a rear facing car seat

For parents who are always on the go, the Doona X Infant Car Seat & Stroller is a game-changer. This clever design converts seamlessly from a car seat to a stroller, without disturbing your sleeping child, making it the best infant car seat stroller combo on the market.

Now with 3 recline positions, Doona X allows your child to lie down and relax. With its integrated, adjustable harness and headrest, the Doona X meets the European i-Size safety regulation (R-129). The patented shock absorbers and smooth-release system offer a smoother and safer ride than ever. The Doona X comes with the Doona SIP add-on, providing enhanced side-impact protection.

SPECIAL FEATURES

Adjustable headrest
Integrated auto adjust harness
Smooth-release system
Faux-leather handlebar cover
Zipper-removable washable textiles
Bamboo Charcoal Fibre infant insert
Highest safety & quality standards
New, improved, breathable textiles & inner foams
Adjustable handlebar with increased handle height - acts as an anti-rebound bar
5-point harness
Shock absorber
Compatible with Doona X ISOFIX base
TUV and FAA aircraft-approved
2 year manufacturer's warranty
Comes fully assembled

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Emily Stoffel

☆☆☆☆☆

If you’re primarily looking for a car seat that you can roll rather than lug, look no further. Doona is aces. It’s especially valuable when baby is very young and sleeping more sporadically on the go, like all those pediatrician appointments in the early days. And if you live in an area where most of your walking will be done on paved surfaces — or even metro systems, where you want a very small stroller footprint — I can’t imagine a better solution. Planning to travel frequently? Easily a win.

Lizzie Edmonds

☆☆☆☆

The Doona X is a great bit of kit. Is it an essential item when you have your baby? No. Can you live without it? Yes. Should you get one? If you can afford it, yes. Will it make life that little bit easier when you’re in the trenches of having a newborn? Absolutely.

3. Best Long-Term Car Seat: Joie Signature I-Spin XL

BASICS

Price: €375

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to 12 years (40-150 cm height, up to 36 kg weight)

Car Seat Weight: 14.5 kg

Rear Facing Dimensions: 69.5 L x 52.5 W x 71.5 H cm

Forward Facing Dimensions: 54.5 L x 52.5 W x 85 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX

Rear Facing Until: Minimum of 15 months or 76 cm

Looking for a car seat that grows with your child? The Joie Signature I-Spin XL is designed for longevity, accommodating your little one from birth up to approximately 12 years. Its versatility and superior safety features make it the best long-term car seat for newborns. Plus, its 360° spin makes it easy to buckle your child in, whether you have a fragile infant or a wiggly toddler.

SPECIAL FEATURES

360º spinning feature
21 position load leg ensures the car seat is stabilized in various vehicle makes and models
Meets the highest ECE R129 safety standards with vigorous side impact testing
i-Size certified for guaranteed fits in any i-Sized approved vehicle
Tri-Protect™ headrest offers security with three layers of protection inside the wings, including patented Intelli-Fit™ memory foam
Guard Surround Safety™ pod for optimal side impact protection
Swivel lock off on either side of the base prevents forward facing usage until you're ready.
5-point harness with shoulder and lower buckle covers easily, tightens with one pull motion
Reinforced steel shell for structural integrity in a crash
5-position recline is usable on-the-go both rearward and forward facing
Grow-with-me infant insert has 3 individual pieces for a custom fit at any stage
AutoAdjust™ side wings expand as the headrest is raised for more room in neck and shoulders
Low rebound bar creates ample space for growing legs
One-hand, 14 position GrowTogether™ headrest and harness adjust simultaneously and requires no re-threading of harness
Harness Hideaway compartments store the 5-point harness when using in booster mode
Buckle retention magnets keep the harness buckles positioned to the side of the seat for easier loading

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Eilish

☆☆☆☆☆

Great safe car seat that will last until my 2yr old hits 12yrs. It swivels which is a big help to a mama with a bad back. I highly recommend.

Emanuele

☆☆☆☆☆

I like the quality and it's really practical. Our boy is happy with it (which is the main thing) and I hope it'll last for some time.

Anonymous

☆☆☆☆☆

Extremely robust with excellent safety test results. Exactly what we were looking for and reasonably priced.

4. Best Affordable Car Seat for Newborns: Cybex Aton B2 i-Size

BASICS

Price: €190

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to approximately 15 months (40-83 cm height, up to 13 kg weight)

Car Seat Weight: 3.8 kg

Dimensions: 66 L x 44 W x 39 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX base or vehicle seat belt

Rear Facing Until: No forward facing option, only usable as a rear facing car seat

If you’re on a budget but don’t want to compromise on safety and comfort, the Cybex Aton B2 i-Size is the best affordable car seat for newborns. It offers excellent safety features at a fraction of the price of premium models.

Developed according to the latest safety standard, it features Linear Side impact Protection that reliably protects your baby while traveling. In addition to this, the removable newborn inlay and height-adjustable headrest ensure maximum comfort during your child’s first two years. At 3.8 kg, the Aton B2 i-Size is not only lightweight, but also easy to handle after the ride. It is compatible with CYBEX strollers and other select brands. The foldable USF50+ XXL sun canopy of the Aton B2 i-Size protects against sun and wind even outside the car. With this car seat you and your baby can get safely from A to B from day one.

SPECIAL FEATURES

At only 3.9 kg, the Aton B2 i-Size is easy and uncomplicated to position in the car or to carry before and after the trip.
The removable newborn inlay supports an ergonomically correct position for your baby up to 60 cm. So, you can be sure that your child has maximum protection.
Thanks to the 11-position height-adjustable headrest, the infant car seat grows with your child during the ﬁrst 24 months. Head, neck, and shoulders are supported while the harness automatically and comfortably adapts to each growth spurt.
Travel system capability lets you attach the Aton B2 i-Size to any stroller from CYBEX, gb or other select brands. The easy and intuitive mounting of the infant car seat guarantees you a pleasant and smooth onward journey on foot.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

bjoyouse

☆☆☆☆☆

This is a gorgeous product! The car seat has a newborn insert which is great, especially if you have a small baby! They are nice and secure with all the cushions around them. As they get bigger it’s easy to remove the insert & raise the headrest. It is definitely lighter to carry than some of the other options out there. Easy to install base in car and such a quick way of popping the seat securely on top! Also goes on buggy base which is very handy only negative I have is that the colour shows up dirt easily but wipes away well.

Anonymous

☆☆☆☆☆

Really easy to use this car seat. My 4 month old is very happy - she has tolerated two four hour journeys without stopping. (Strategically timed, mind)

Anonymous

☆☆☆☆☆

Simple and easy to use, has great safety features.

5. Best Newborn to Toddler Car Seat: Osann One 360 Deluxe i-Size with Isofix

BASICS

Price: €209

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to 12 years (40-150 cm height, up to 36 kg weight)

Car Seat Weight: 13.5 kg

Dimensions: 48 L x 43 W x 58 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX

Rear Facing Until: Minimum of 15 months or 76 cm

The Osann One 360 Deluxe i-Size with Isofix is perfect for parents looking for the best car seat for newborn to toddler. With its rotating feature and long usage span, it’s a reliable choice that adapts as your child grows. Plus, as one of the most affordable car seats on our list, you truly get the biggest bang for your buck.

The Osann One 360 i-Size Car Seat accommodates children ranging from 40 cm to 150 cm, ensuring it's a long-term investment in your child's safety and comfort. For the earliest days of your child's life, this car seat provides the option of rearward-facing travel, promoting safety and tranquility from birth up to 105 cm (roughly 18 kg or 4 years). With two adjustable recline positions, your little one enjoys ultimate comfort during these crucial formative years. Once your child reaches 76 cm in height or a minimum of 15 months old, you can seamlessly transition to forward-facing mode. This gives them a wide view of the world outside while maintaining their security. As your child continues to grow, the One 360 i-Size Car Seat effortlessly transforms into a high-back booster seat, supporting children from 100 cm to 150 cm in height. This ensures their safety and comfort at every stage of development.

SPECIAL FEATURES

Versatile Size Range: The Osann One 360 i-Size Car Seat is suitable for children from a tiny 40cm at birth, all the way up to approximately 150cm, covering your child's needs from infancy through to around 12 years old.
Extended Rearward and Forward-Facing: This seat supports extended rearward-facing use, accommodating your child up to 105cm in height. For forward-facing, the seat can be used from 76cm to 105cm, secured by a 5-point harness.
Secure Installation: The car seat easily fits using the Isofix system and a top tether strap, ensuring a stable and reliable installation.
Adjustable 5-Point Harness: A 5-point safety harness automatically adjusts with the headrest, providing a custom fit for your child's safety and comfort.
Multiple Recline Positions: Enjoy two recline positions when rearward-facing and five recline options when forward-facing, ensuring your child's comfort during every journey.
Height-Adjustable Headrest: With 14 positions for height adjustment, the car seat grows with your child, providing continuous support and safety.
Magnetic Buckle Holders: Magnetic holders make it a breeze to buckle up your child, streamlining the process and ensuring a secure fit.
Stowaway Harness: The harness easily stows away when the car seat converts to high-back booster mode, allowing for a seamless transition.
Plush Comfort: The car seat features a very well-padded seat with removable body cushions, ensuring your child's ride is cozy and snug.
Hassle-Free Tension Adjustment: A one-pull harness belt tensioner simplifies the process of securing your child safely.
360-Degree Rotation: The 360-degree rotation feature makes accessing and securing your child from the side exceptionally easy.
Improved Side Impact Protection: Enhanced side impact protection safeguards your child from unforeseen accidents, offering added peace of mind.

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Mags

☆☆☆☆☆

Bought this for my 2 month old baby and I’m very impressed, she’s very comfortable in it and swivel motion in it makes it very easy to get the baby in and out of the car

K.Baatzsch

☆☆☆☆☆

Easy adjustment and easy installation, we love it. The seat makes a very high-quality impression. It fulfills all our wishes and best of all - the little one loves sitting in it. Very good value for money!

Julia

☆☆☆☆☆

We were looking for a seat that you can use for a long time because our little one grows very fast from day to day. This fits perfectly. I am already looking forward to driving with it for the next few years. our little one is now 8 months old and loves it. Whether forward or backward, everything is super safe and comfortable.

6. Best Lightweight Infant Car Seat: Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna

BASICS

Price: €249

Safety Standard: R129

Age Appropriate: Birth to approximately 15 months (40-83 cm height, up to 13 kg weight)

Car Seat Weight: 3 kg (excluding canopy and baby insert)

Dimensions: 69 L x 44 W x 59.8 H cm

Installation: ISOFIX base or vehicle seat belt

Rear Facing Until: No forward facing option, only usable as a rear facing car seat

For families who prioritise portability, the Bugaboo Turtle Air by Nuna is the best lightweight infant car seat. Designed for easy carrying and quick installation, this seat is ideal for busy parents.

Designed to perfectly fit all Bugaboo strollers, this ultralight i-Size infant car seat ensures secure transportation for your precious newborn right from day one. Not only does it provide top-notch safety, but it also prioritizes your baby's comfort during those on-the-go adventures. And here's the best part – when paired with the Bugaboo 360 ISOFIX Base, it effortlessly rotates for added convenience and ease of use. Say hello to worry-free and comfortable journeys with your little one!

SPECIAL FEATURES

Adjustable headrest with seven positions
Soft-touch bamboo and merino wool fabrics
Removable and washable baby insert
UPF 50+ canopy with peek-a-boo window
Smart visor lets your child rest undisturbed
Belt path on the shell to use with seat belt
Swivel convenience with the 360 ISOFIX Base (sold separately)
Compatible with all Bugaboo strollers (adapters needed)
Nuna-patented Tailor tech™ memory foam for ultimate side-impact protection
EPP energy-absorbing foam further reduces impact
Removable baby insert improves protection
High-strength handle protects head area
TUV-approved for use on aircraft to travel everywhere
220-degree swivel convenience with the Bugaboo 360 ISOFIX Base (sold separately).

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

Abbie

☆☆☆☆☆

We bought this a few months ago to fit onto our pushchair and are so pleased with the quality of the item!

Janja

☆☆☆☆☆

I bought this teo years ago for my first child and then gave it to a friend that passed it on to her friend. When we found out that we are expecting a second baby, the choice was easy so we didn’t have to bother about searching for any other option.

Reru

☆☆☆☆☆

My son has just used this seat and he looks so snug and safe in it. The adjustable seat belt ensures that he is well secured and the see in canopy is a welcome addition. I would recommend this car seat to anyone. It also fits perfectly on his bugaboo donkey with the adapter

The Best Infant Car Seat for Your Family

Choosing the best car seat for a newborn depends on your lifestyle and budget. If you’re after the best 360 car seat for newborns, the Maxi Cosi Emerald 360 Pro is a great option. For families on the go, the Doona X offers unmatched convenience as a car seat and stroller combo. Long-term value can be found with the Joie Signature I-Spin XL, while budget-conscious parents will appreciate the Cybex Aton B2. If you want a car seat that grows with your child, consider the Osann One 360 Deluxe, and for ultimate portability, the Bugaboo Turtle Air is the ideal choice.

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