How to Fit 3 Child Car Seats in a Row: Expert Advice from In Car Safety Centre
At the In Car Safety Centre, one of the most common questions we receive from parents is how to fit three child car seats in a row. While many families assume their cars should easily accommodate this setup, the reality is often more complicated. The design of your vehicle plays a crucial role in determining whether this is possible, and not all "family cars" are created equal when it comes to child seat compatibility.
The Challenges of Fitting 3 Car Seats in a Row
Many car manufacturers label their vehicles as "family cars," but these designs often prioritize adult passengers over the unique needs of families with young children. Even vehicles that offer Isofix points may not have the necessary space or configuration to safely fit three child restraint systems (CRS) in a row.
Typically, most cars provide five seating positions, and people carriers might offer seven. However, it's important to note that not all of these seats are suitable for child car seats. Some vehicles do not allow CRS installation in the front passenger seat or in the third row of a seven-seater. Moreover, there are cars where the middle seat in a five-seater is incompatible with CRS installation. This is why it’s essential to check your vehicle’s manual to understand the limitations and approved CRS positions.
Vehicles Likely to Accommodate 3 Car Seats in a Row
Below is a list of vehicles that we expect to accommodate three child car seats in the second row. Please note that this list is not exhaustive, nor is it a guarantee. The ability to fit three seats will also depend on the specific car seats being used.
Vehicles with 3 Full-Size Seats in the Second Row:
- Audi Q7 (2017 onwards)
- Citroen C4 Picasso (5 seats)
- Citroen C4 Grand Picasso (7 seats)
- Ford S Max
- Ford Galaxy
- Peugeot 5008
- Renault Scenic (5 seats)
- Renault Grand Scenic (7 seats)
- VW Touran
- VW Sharan
- Seat Alhambra
Vehicles with an Additional Row of Seats (Not Always Suitable for CRS):
- Audi Q7
- BMW 2 Series Gran Tourer
- BMW X5
- Citroen Grand Space Tourer
- Citroen Berlingo
- Ford S Max
- Ford C Max
- Ford Grand C Max
- Ford Galaxy
- Ford Tourneo
- Hyundai i800
- Land Rover Discovery (7 seat option)
- Land Rover Discovery Sport (7 seat option)
- Mercedes Vito
- Peugeot 5008
- Renault Grand Scenic
- Seat Alhambra
- SKODA Kodiaq
- Vauxhall Combo
- Volkswagen Sharan
- Volkswagen Transporter
- Volvo XC90
What to Do if Your Car Won’t Fit 3 in a Row
If your current vehicle can't accommodate three car seats in a row, you might not need to change your car. Sometimes, switching to a different CRS can solve the problem. At In Car Safety Centre, we specialize in finding solutions for challenging car setups. Our team of experts can help you explore alternative car seats that might fit better in your vehicle.
Book an Appointment Today
If you're facing difficulties fitting three car seats in your car, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with us. We’ll provide personalized advice and help you find the best solution for your family’s needs.
