Britax Poplar vs. Maxi-Cosi Rodisport: Which is Better? (2024)

Compare the two car seats side-by-side

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Britax Poplar and the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport.

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!

At A Glance

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
Current price
In stock
$279.99
In stock
$179.99
Rating 4.68 4.63

Our Thoughts

Let's dive into a comparison of two highly regarded car seats: the Britax Poplar and the Maxi-Cosi RodiSport. Starting with the Britax Poplar, it stands out as a convertible car seat designed to provide secure and comfortable transport from infancy to toddlerhood. This car seat has a maximum weight limit of 65 pounds in the forward-facing mode, making it a long-lasting choice. Known for its safety, the Poplar features a ClickTight Installation System, which users have praised for being both simple and effective. The seat also offers easy-to-remove fabrics for convenient cleaning and a sleek design that fits compact cars without sacrificing comfort or safety. However, some users have noted drawbacks, such as a lack of padding in the headrest and difficulty adjusting the straps.

Turning now to the Maxi-Cosi RodiSport, this car seat caters to growing children's needs with a convertible design that transitions from a high-back to a backless booster. Unlike the Britax Poplar, this car seat doesn’t have a forward-facing mode but has an impressive maximum weight limit of 100 pounds in its booster mode. The RodiSport features adjustable and reclining options for added comfort and a Rigid Latch System for maximum stability. Several users have emphasized its secure and comfortable design. However, some users have reported size limitations, compatibility concerns with certain types of seat belts, and a strong chemical smell after unboxing.

Looking at these two options, the choice would depend on your specific needs. If you're a parent looking for a car seat that will grow with your child from their very first ride, the Britax Poplar might be a better choice with its convertible design covering infancy to toddlerhood. On the other hand, if you're in search of a car seat for an older child with a slightly higher weight limit and the flexibility of transitioning from a high-back to a backless booster, the Maxi-Cosi RodiSport could quite fit the bill. Both car seats have been positively reviewed for their safety features but take note of the few drawbacks mentioned by users in deciding what would work best for your family. The Britax Poplar car seat is recommended if there's frequent movement between cars due to its praised simple installation system, while the Maxi-Cosi RodiSport is suited for families keen on design aesthetics.

Key Details

Poplar Rodisport
Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Brand Britax Maxi-Cosi
Type Convertible

Rear-Facing Forward-Facing
High Back Booster
Weighted Rating 4.68 4.63
1 yr Price Range $299.99 - $299.99 $179.99 - $179.99
Current price
In stock
$279.99
In stock
$179.99
Value

Offers a robust set of features at a competitive price point, balancing quality and cost effectively.

Offers great features and comfort at a reasonable price.

Safety

Safety is a hallmark of Britax, and the Poplar is no exception, with its sturdy construction and reliable performance in safety tests.

Equipped with a rigid latch system for maximum stability.

Features

With its convertible design and user-friendly installation, the Poplar stands out in its category.

Versatile adjustments and design cater to various child sizes and needs.

Installation

The ClickTight system is frequently praised for its simplicity and effectiveness, making installation a breeze.

Simple and quick installation process with built-in latches.

Cleaning

The seat is designed with easy-to-remove fabrics for convenient cleaning, which is a boon for busy parents.

Standard cleaning ease, similar to most booster seats.

Size

The slim profile of the Poplar is advantageous for fitting into compact cars without compromising on comfort or safety.

Slim design fits well in vehicles while offering ample space for the child.

Review Click here Click here

Comparison of Specifications

While features and reviews provide a sense of real-world use, the specs offer quantifiable details on sizing, limitations, and more. Comparing key measurements and ranges side-by-side is crucial for ensuring you choose a seat properly fitted for your child and vehicle.

We've compiled the weight limits, height limits, dimensions, and other vital statistics for the Britax Poplar and the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport. This data will confirm whether each seat can accommodate your child's current size and projected growth. Specs like seat depth and width are also important for assessing fit with your car's backseat.

Review the following key measurements for both seats. Pay special attention to the height and weight limits to ensure your child falls within the safe ranges.

Height and Weight Limits

Rear-facing

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 5 - 50 pounds

Forward-facing

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 0 - 49 inches
Weight Range 22 - 65 pounds

Booster

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Height Range 43 - 57 inches
Weight Range 40 - 100 pounds

Dimensions and Weight

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Width 17.0 inches 19.2 inches
Height 20.5 inches 35.1 inches
Depth 23.5 inches 10.3 inches
Weight 27.2 pounds 16.3 pounds

Core Specifications

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Model Year 2023 2021
Made In USA China
Frame Material Reinforced Steel Reinforced Steel

Safety and Compliance

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Federal Safety Standards Does not meet standards Meets all standards
Configurations FAA-Approved for Airplanes Forward-Facing
Rear-Facing
High Back Booster
Backless Booster
NHTSA Ease-of-Use Ratings Not rated by NHTSA. Booster Mode
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Labels 4 out of 5 stars
Instructions 5 out of 5 stars
Securing 5 out of 5 stars
Installation Features 3 out of 5 stars
Previous Recalls This car seat has never been recalled. This car seat has never been recalled.

Features

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Attachment Methods LATCH
Seatbelt
Seatbelt
Harness Type 5-Point N/A
Cup Holders Has cup holders. Has cup holders.

Warranty and Durability

Britax Poplar Maxi-Cosi Rodisport
Manufacturers Warranty Length 1 year 1 year
Lifespan 10 Years 10 Years

Additional Links

See all Britax car seats See all Maxi-Cosi car seats
Full review of the Britax Poplar
Full review of the Maxi-Cosi Rodisport