As an infant carrier in the car it sits at a slightly upright angle (not as upright as the earlier version). In an effort to reduce the upright angle, the base is now adjustable. A window in the base reveals a bubble; turn the adjuster to align the bubble and the seat should be at the optimum angle. Bear this in mind when you consider this seat because you will inevitably be encouraged to use the car seat as part of a travel system.

The best place for a car seat is in the car and a newborn baby should lay as flat as possible when travelling in its pushchair. The level of the seat can only be adjusted via the base and therefore cannot be adjusted whilst on a pushchair. Once the baby reaches five or six months this becomes less of an issue as a more upright angle is not so necessary.

The Primo Viaggio is part of the “surefix” family. This is the Mamas & Papas system for attaching either a car seat or Carrycot to a pushchair or chassis without the need for any kind of fixing kit. The system works well and is easy to use.

You will buy the seat with the surefix base included. The base is held in place in your vehicle with your seat belt and the Primo Viaggio attaches to the base easily. It is now possible to fit the seat without the base using a conventional seat belt routing – this was not possible with the earlier versions.

The current version of the seat is known as the Primo Viaggio SIP – referring to its improved side impact protection. This has been achieved by utilising a high density foam insert that will adjust as your baby grows.

The baby’s harness can be adjusted to a generous five positions ensuring the correct fit and optimum comfort at the same time. As the baby grows you will remove the Comfort Pad increasing the space in the seat and allowing for growth.

This seat comes complete with hood, “surefix” base and Comfort Pad. Should you require, you can purchase an additional base. A raincover is also available as an accessory.

The Primo Viaggio is a Group 0+ car seat which will accommodate your baby from birth to a maximum of 13kg/28lbs (birth -15months approx). Remember that Car Seats are graded purely by weight and therefore any mention of the child’s age is always approximate.

THE LOW-DOWN

How do you know if it fits? Always confirm correct fitting and compatibility with a trained Nursery retailer or Road Safety Officer
What Group and what does this mean? This is a Group 0+ Seat which is suitable from Birth – 13kgs
Key considerations – This seat is still on the upright side. Whilst this is not so much of an issue in the car, don't be encouraged to allow the baby to spend too much time in this on a pushchair
Ease of fitting - Easy
Any defining features – This new version can now be used (occasionally) without the base, utilising the seat belt
Budget - £150
Optional Accessories – Raincover