Let’s get names out of way first, there’s the Advocate 70 CS, Advocate 70-G3 and Advocate G4 like many others that Britax makes. The Advocate G4 or simply just Advocate is the newest in the lineup, while the 70 CS and G3 (referring to 70 lb weight limit) have been discontinued. If you’ve already looked at price you know this is on the higher end for convertible car seats and are wondering is it really worth it. I’m going to review the newest Advocate model as well as the G3 since they are 2 newest models.
Eactly how does the Britix Advocate 70-G3 measure up?
A step above the Boulevard and Pavilion models the Advocate boasts some other safety features. They have added an extra level of side impact protection with Side Impact Cushions placed on both upper sides of the seat. The cushions absorb crash impact and transfer crash energy away reducing impact by 45%. I don’t find that the extra padding makes the seat less comfortable or that much more bulky in exchange for the extra protection. If anything the inside padding makes it more comfortable, like adding more pillows to the couch.
The Advocate also has Britax’s “Click & Safe” harness indicator at the bottom of the seat. It lets you know when the harness is snug enough around your child. For me this is only somewhat of a pro since as parents, we should be checking ourselves with fingers first to make sure the harness is tight enough.
Quick Specs
- Item Weight: 25.2 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.
- True Side Impact Protection and Side Impact Cushion – With the addition of the Side Impact Cushion this is an upgraded feature from the Boulevard. In addition to the padding made from Energy Absorbing Foam the helps to minimize head movement limiting potential injury to the spine the Side Impact Cushion reduces crash impact energy by 45%.
- 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 is my favorite “mommy feature” so I’m glad they kept it around in this model.
- LATCH System – Makes installation a breeze with a push button release.
- Click & Safe – Audible noise letting you know that your child is strapped in safely to the harness.
And the Cons?
- Big and Heavy – With the addition of the side cushions for impact protection the seat gets bigger and heavier, makes sense right? But, if you have a small car or already have a large car seat in the back you may want to measure your space before purchasing this model to make sure you have enough room. If not, the slightly smaller Boulevard or Marathon may work better.
- Short harness – Some parents have complained that the harness is just too short which make it difficult to adjust especially as their little one grows.
How do consumes rate it?
The Advocate gets high ratings at 4.5 out of 5 stars, mostly attributed to the added safety features.
What’s it going to cost?
The Advocate 70-G3 proved difficult to find online and ultimately I couldn’t find much of a discounted rate at $379. Much more expensive in comparison to other models in the Britax convertible car seat line.
The Bottom Line
As this model has been discontinued and is hard to find, I’d recommend going for the newer model. It’ll last you longer, has upgraded features, and is more affordable.
