BeSafe iZi Twist B-E child car seat review

Verdict

Norway’s BeSafe has a reputation for producing high quality car seats and the latest iZi Twist B-E does not disappoint. It’s pricey and can be tricky to install, but the tech on offer is second to none. The new E-Fit Guider is a welcome addition, giving every owner peace of mind that the seat is in the correct position.

• Price: Around £500
• Contact: www.besafe.com

The BeSafe iZi Twist B i-Size is one of the safest and most popular child car seats on the market, but this all-singing and all-dancing seat is now available with even more tech – introducing the new iZi Twist B-E.

The latest model features everything that’s good about iZi Twist B, however the ‘E’ in the name refers to a new E-Fit Guider system. It’s an electronic display that gives parents a step-by-step visual guide through the installation process to ensure the seat is correctly in place. There’s a series of lights showing each step - a red light means there’s an issue, and a green light means you’re good to go; it’s as simple as that.

It’s not just the E-Fit Guider that makes this such a desirable seat, though, as there are plenty of other safety and convenience features, including a 10-step adjustable headrest to help the seat grow with your child and four different reclining positions.

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There’s also a Baby Shell insert, which is unique in the fact that it provides a whole outer shell instead of just cushion inserts. Within the shell there’s a dynamic force absorber in the side wings to offer an additional layer of protection. A soft newborn hugger can also be inserted for the early days with a new baby as well.

At 15kg, the iZi Twist B-E is heavier than most of its rivals, but this is a child seat that is designed to stay in the car. Of course, that means that there’s no carrier to lift your child in and out, but on the flip side you can keep your child rearward facing for longer (up to four years/18kg).

We tested it over a space of two weeks and found it very easy to use. It’s luxurious and you can really see and feel the quality of the materials. We also loved how easy it is to rotate the seat by 90 degrees. There’s a large, clearly marked lever that can be operated with one hand, so it’s not a problem if you’ve got your baby with you at the time.

The only real gripe is over how the seat is installed. The E-Fit Guider is great for putting your mind at rest, but actually connecting the seat to the car and getting green lights was trickier than expected, as we often had to literally wrestle with the seat and Isofix points. We’ve certainly had an easier installation experience when using similar products from brands such as Maxi-Cosi and Joie.