So, what’s the deal with the Britax Boulevard 70-G3 and G4 convertible car seat models you may ask? They’re the two newest in the lineup after the Boulevard 70 and Boulevard 70 CS which have been discontinued. They seem more expensive than the Marathon but cheaper than the Advocate, so you’re thinking they must be in the middle of the two feature wise, right? Well, you’re exactly right! The Boulevard has a couple additional safety features than the Marathon, but is it really worth the price increase? Let’s look at the pros and cons.
How does the Britax Boulevard 70-G3 stack up?
Firstly, the Boulevard 70-G3, like all the 70-G3 models from Britax were discontinued in December 2013 with the new G4 models, however this is still a popular car seat and is still available at online retailers. The Boulevard 70-G3 also gets great feedback from parents about its easy installation, easy to adjust straps and harness, as well as its durability and quality construction.
Quick Specs
- Item Weight: 19.5 lbs
- Orientation: forward and rear facing
- Weight limits: 5 – 70 lb
- Height limit: 49 in
- Harness: 5 point
What are the Pros?
- HUGS Chest Pads with Safe Cell – These chest pads have Safe Cell which provides further resistance to forward movement in the event of a crash, an upgrade from the Marathon.
- True Side Impact Protection – This is an upgraded feature from the Marathon model. Additional padding made from Energy Absorbing Foam has been added. The padding helps to minimize head movement which limits potential injury to the spine.
- Base with Safe Cell Technology – Made with Safe Cell Technology to prevent the child from being propelled forward by compressing in crash and lowering the center of gravity.
- Energy-Absorbing Versa-Tether – Attachment that anchors the top of the car seat which slows the release of forward movement.
- EZ-Buckle System – Keeps harness out of the way so you can place your child in easily. This sounds like a small feature but it’s not, it’s like having a second set of hands to help you get your baby in the seat, only one word for this….AMAZING!
- LATCH System – Makes installation a breeze with a push button release.
And the Cons?
- Wider car seat – This is definitely one the wider car seats on the market, so if you have a small car or have multiple car seats in the back, this may not be the choice for you.
- Could be considered heavy – At 19.5 lbs this may be difficult for some who want to take the car seat in and out, but not an issue if the car seat is staying in place.
How do consumes rate it?
As with many of the Britax car seats he Boulevard 70-G3 gets a 4.5 out of 5 stars and parents say they’d definitely recommend it to their friends.
What’s it going to cost?
Since this model has been discontinued it’s come down in price from its original $320 to about $250. Also, since it is discontinued you’re most likely only going to find this car seat at online retailers, as I’m writing this the best price I found was on Amazon for $239.99 depending on the color you want. This is a big discount from the original value, but when we look at the new G4 model next we’ll see not only has it been upgraded but, the price is better….waayyy better.
The Bottom Line
If you have a friend who wants to sell you their “gentle used” Boulevard 70-G3 at a great price, say under $200, or ever better at $150, TAKE IT! It’s a great car seat. But, if you’re looking to buy new, there are better options with a cheaper price tag.
