When deciding what car seat style to choose for your toddler, there are many things to consider, but safety will always be number one. Cybex has built on the award-winning success of the Anoris T forward-facing car seat with the new Anoris T2, bringing an airbag-filled solution to this parenting puzzle.
It is widely known that a rear-facing car seat offers the greatest protection, but by 15 months, kids are much less enamoured with the view of the rear seats and want to be involved in what’s happening up front. Moving out of that first-sized car seat is a big step, but eventually, it comes to us all.
Growing limbs make it more challenging to squeeze into rear-facing seats, making car trips less comfortable. Cybex embraced the idea that many parents, while keen to ensure their children’s safety, will likely move them to a forward-facing car seat as soon as possible.
The solution was to add the thing that keeps adults safe in a car — an airbag. In terms of child seats, this is a revolutionary move. Gone are the five-point harnesses we’re used to seeing, replaced by a single, chunky, cushioned lap bar that clicks in place using the same fixing style as a standard seatbelt.
Contained within this cushion is a full-body C-shaped airbag that, should it ever be activated, will form an air-filled barrier in front of the child in less time than it takes to blink. Testing by the German manufacturer suggests that this approach is 50% safer than other types of forward-facing car seats.
There is also built-in side impact technology, which helps to reduce the forces of an accident by up to 20%, dissipating them through the energy-absorbing seat shell.
Is the Anoris T2 Car Seat Easy To Fit?
Fitting the Anoris T2 could not be simpler. It uses the Isofix system and a load leg for stability. To connect the seat, flip down the folded load leg, sit the seat base in front of the Isofix anchor points and slide them back until they click in. You can be sure that everything is attached correctly, thanks to the indicator next to the sliding section, which will turn green when it’s connected.
With that in place, extend the load leg to touch the footwell floor and tighten it. If it’s correctly placed, the green light on the LED panel will show. If not, extend it a little further and repeat the process.
The linear side impact protection flaps can be extended by pressing them in to release them into place; then, you’re ready to add your passenger.
What Are the Benefits for the Child?
With just one easy click to secure the lap belt, or impact shield as Cybex refers to it, onboarding the little one is less stressful for all concerned, without multiple buckles and straps to align.
Once in the seat, your Mini Joe is cossetted and comfortable, with plenty of cushioning and side support for his head. The bulky bar was a little confusing for him on our first outing, with him wanting to give it a little nibble, but he soon relaxed into it — so much so that he nodded off.
Having previously been used to a rear-facing seat, Mini Joe was very excited to see what was happening in front of him and to be able to see his parents easily during the car journey in the Genesis GV60. It was a stimulating experience for him and kept him happy and chattering away until slumber engulfed him.
Being restrained only by the waist-level belt allows the child a feeling of increased movement. With no shoulder straps hemming them in, they can comfortably relax without overly tightened straps placing pressure on them. There is plenty of ventilation in the Anoris T2, so they can stay cool and happy, even in the warmest weather.
What Are the Benefits for the Parents?
Not being able to easily see what’s happening with your children in the backseat can be unsettling for parents, particularly if the child seems distressed. With the Anoris T2, parents can make eye contact with their child, which can be calming for both parties.
As the children get older, being able to see them either from the passenger seat or via the rearview mirror will mean they feel included in conversations, which will keep them happy and engaged during long journeys.
The seat has two positions, so if your Mini Joe is likely to take a nap, tilt the seat back and he can doze comfortably in a more laid-back pose. There is even a built-in sunshade for extra protection on those very sunny days.
There’s plenty of longevity with the Anoris T2 car seat, which is suitable from 15 months up to around seven years old, or 21kg in weight. Older children will be able to secure themselves into the seat, giving them an increased sense of independence. Parents can quickly check that they are properly strapped in, as the LED indicators on the onboard safety assistant show up in red very clearly if the belt is not correctly attached.
Cybex Anoris T2 i-Size Car Seat: The Verdict
Cybex has created a product that shakes up child car seat design, incorporating safety technology that takes it to the next level. For the children, it offers cosy surroundings with more room to stretch their arms and legs freely. For the parents, it provides peace of mind that their little one is not only comfortable and happy but, even more importantly, safe.
Installation is extremely simple, with easy-to-read indicators at each step to ensure everything is properly in place.
The only thing that might give pause for thought is the price tag. At £640
, it is a considerable investment compared to more conventional car seats. Given the enormous benefits in terms of increased safety, we think it is worth it. After all, you wouldn’t buy a new car without airbags being fitted, so now you can relax knowing your child has the same level of protection.
Model Tested: Cybex Anoris T2 i-Size Car Seat
Price: £640
Average Janes Rating: ★★★★☆
