REASONS TO BUY
Comfy headrest
Smooth fabric
Rigid latch system
REASONS TO AVOID
Disappointing padding
No foam in the headrest
Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport Review
Easier to use and install seat with a comfortable headrest, but a basic feel and lower quality design
Credit: Abriah Wofford
By Wendy Schmitz ⋅ Senior Review Editor ⋅ January 26, 2024
Contributions From: Juliet Spurrier, MD
RELATED: Best Booster Seats | Crash Tested
Our Verdict
The Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport is a high-back booster from our booster seat review. This high-backed option is generally average in every way, earning an above-average overall score thanks to its slightly above-average crash test rating and higher ease-of-use performance. While we think there are some interesting features on this booster, like a rigid LATCH installation to keep it in place and a comfortable headrest that kids will love, it simply isn't enough to beat out higher-scoring competitors that offer better crash test analysis and more for a lower price. Whether you are looking for great crash test results, superior comfort, or a budget-friendly price, there is an alternative to the Maxi-Cosi we'd choose first.
Our Analysis and Test Results
The Maxi-Cosi earned an average crash test analysis score. It had a better HIC sensor result than the chest clip, but neither where a standout in this competition. Credit: GearLab & MGA Research
Crash Test
The Maxi-Cosi earned a crash test analysis result that is below average for the group.
While all the boosters in our lineup are presumably compliant with federal guidelines and considered safe, we ran our test faster to identify any potential standout choices. Our tests utilized a crash sled that is more similar to modern vehicle seat cushions, and we conducted our test at a slightly faster pace than the federal standard.
The Maxi-Cosi HIC sensor data compared to that of the Nuna AACE. Credit: GearLab & MGA Research
The graph depicts the sensor data collected from the Maxi-Cosi compared to that of the AACE. Credit: GearLab & MGA Research
The Maxi-Cosi HIC and chest sensor results were acceptable for the group, with the HIC performing somewhat better than the chest clip sensor; however, neither result was particularly impressive or disappointing. However, about half of the seats offered better performance.
The headrest on the Maxi-Cosi is adjustable up and down to help position the shoulder portion of the vehicle belt. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
The RoadiSport earned a relatively high-performance score for ease of use, with a result higher than the average. Our passenger didn't seem to have a problem buckling herself in.
The Maxi-Cosi seat bottom is wide, and the belt and buckle rub against the side, making it more challenging to buckle. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The belt is easy to thread, and you don't need to reach back very far to grasp it. However, the belt rubs the seat side when you push it into the buckle. This could create a challenge for younger children or those who are easily frustrated. The shoulder guide held the belt without a problem, and it seemed well-placed for most children.
The rigid LATCH connectors on the Maxi-Cosi are somewhat unique and can be operated and installed with one hand. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The RodiSport is easy to move, featuring a handle at the top and an indentation at the bottom for carrying. It features a rigid LATCH system that is both unique in design and easy to operate with one hand.
The rigid LATCH connectors on the Maxi-Cosi have a release button on the side (red button on the side). Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Maxi-Cosi LATCH connectors have a color change indicator to let the installer know it is attached to the vehicle anchors. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The system rattles somewhat, and it didn't make a reassuring click when we attached it, so we gave it a few good tugs to ensure it was properly connected to the vehicle's anchors.
The Maxi-Cosi has a single cup holder that clips on the side and easy to remove, which could result in a lost cup holder. Credit: Abriah Wofford
This seat has one cup holder that slides off easily, and we suspect it will become a fidget toy or get lost in the car somewhere. We couldn't find optional additions to purchase, but in fairness, most kids don't need a cup holder at all, so one is probably enough. It did pass our kids' water bottle test.
The Maxi-Cosi is a bigger seat but it can be made more manageable by removing the back, so kids can carry it themselves. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight and Size
This seat weighs 13.2 lbs, making it neither lightweight nor heavy for this group of seats. With options weighing less than a pound and one weighing nearly 26 lbs, we can see how this booster might be appealing to some, considering weight alone.
The measured width of this booster is 17.7 inches, making it relatively narrow compared to other boosters. There are a handful of options that have smaller widths, but this one is not prohibitive compared to those that are closer to 20 inches. The shoulder belt has some slack after buckling, which leads us to believe that there must be some friction in the shoulder strap guide. It isn't a huge problem, but it needs to be adjusted every time.
The Maxi-Cosi headrest is height adjustable to ensure the shoulder positioner is placed properly and to ensure comfort. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Comfort
The Maxi-Cosi performed well compared to others in terms of comfort. The comfort padding is not impressive, as it looks and feels like packing foam. However, the cover has some attached padding that increases the thickness and comfort factor. The back of the seat also has nice padding, which is an area many competitors overlook. The headrest and armrests have similar padding all around, and our child testers enjoyed them.
The Maxi-Cosi fabric is soft and feels cooling, which might be nice on hot days or in the direct sun. Credit: Abriah Wofford
The fabric on this seat feels smooth and cooling, and we like it on our faces. The headrest isn't as deep as we'd like.
The Maxi-Cosi is a good-looking seat that offers average-quality materials and final fit and finish. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Quality
The Maxi-Cosi quality is average, with no standout features that indicate thoughtful design. The added padding gives this option a little more of a quality feel than those without it. The cover snaps in place and tucks in for a nicer look. The seeing on the cover is somewhat better than that of those that don't wrap well and bunch up. The headrest has no foam, and there doesn't seem to be much to reinforce the seat; it has a flimsy overall feel.
While this is a nicer-looking seat, we think there are higher-performing seats in the review that most families would prefer. Credit: Abriah Wofford
Should You Buy the Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport?
The RoadiSport is a slightly better-than-average high-backed booster with a somewhat higher-than-average price. While there isn't a single significant disappointing feature or performance result to be had with the RoadiSport, there also isn't anything truly compelling about it either. This middle-of-the-road seat is generally average, and we think parents and kids alike will be left wanting more, especially for the price.
What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?
For a lower price, the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is the booster we'd recommend to most families. This Chicco has better crash test results, and it performed well in our metrics for ease of use and comfort. We love the leg lounger to help with dangling legs, and the LATCH install prevents it from moving about when there is no passenger. If your goal is the booster with the absolute best crash results, then the Nuna AACE is the option for you. This higher-quality choice is uber-high-ranking in most metrics, including ease of use and comfort. The Peg Perego Viaggio Flex 120 is higher priced but provides an additional level of adjustability over the traditional booster with side wings that can be widened. If you need something more budget-friendly, the UPPAbaby Alta v2 is also a compelling choice with better-than-average crash test results and quality materials. Overall, any of these options are a more satisfying choice than the Maxi-Cosi.
Manufacturer Video
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $200 List Check Price at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | Easier to use and install seat with a comfortable headrest, but a basic feel and lower quality design |
| Pros | Comfy headrest, smooth fabric, rigid latch system |
| Cons | Disappointing padding, no foam in the headrest |
| Rating Categories | Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport |
| Crash Test (35%) | |
| Ease of Use (25%) | |
| Weight/Size (15%) | |
| Comfort (15%) | |
| Quality (10%) | |
| Specifications | Maxi-Cosi RoadiSport |
| Modes | High Back Booster, Backless Booster |
| High Back Booster Weight Range | 40-100 lb |
| High Back Booster Height Range | 43-57 in |
| Width | 17.7 in |
| Weight | 13.2 lb |
| Backless Booster Weight Range | 40-100 lb |
| Backless Booster Height Range | 43-57 in |
| 5 Point Harness Weight Range | N/A |
| 5 Point Height Range | N/A |
| LATCH Equipped | Yes |
| Recline Positions | 2 |
| Foam Type | None |
| Seat Lifespan | 10 Years |
| Aircraft Certified | No |
You Might Also Like
