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Discover if the lightweight Cosco Finale 2-in-1 lives up to the hype as a forward-facing harness and booster seat. We break down crash scores, fit, ease of use, and compare it to top picks like the Chicco KidFit Zip Plus for ultimate value.
Quick Pick
Our Top Pick: Chicco KidFit Zip Plus 2-in-1 Belt-Positioning Booster Car Seat
For superior crash protection and versatility, upgrade to the Chicco KidFit Zip Plus. Check current price
The Cosco Finale 2-in-1 car seat stands out in the budget category, offering a forward-facing 5-point harness mode for kids 30-65 lbs and 32-49 inches tall, plus a high-back booster mode for 40-100 lbs and 43-57 inches. At just 11.5 lbs with a compact 18.3 x 17 x 27.5-inch footprint, it's a favorite for tight spaces and three-across setups. But does its affordability compromise safety? In our hands-on testing, it scores a solid 68/100 overall, excelling in vehicle fit but lagging in booster crash protection.
Whether you're shopping for a secondary seat, travel option, or first booster transition, this review dives into real-world performance, specs, and alternatives to help you decide.
Here's how the Cosco Finale stacks up against leading options like the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX and Chicco KidFit Zip Plus. Data from independent crash tests, manufacturer specs, and our lab measurements.
| Feature | Cosco Finale 2-in-1 | Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX | Chicco KidFit Zip Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 82/100 | 89/100 |
| Weight | 11.5 lbs | 19.5 lbs | 25.5 lbs |
| Dimensions (WxDxH) | 18.3 x 17 x 27.5 in | 19 x 21.5 x 23.5 in | 19.75 x 17 x 29.75 in |
| Harness Weight Limit | 30-65 lbs (forward-facing only) | 5-65 lbs (rear/forward) | N/A (booster only, 40-100 lbs) |
| Booster Height Limit | 43-57 in | N/A | 38-57 in |
| Crash Protection (Harnessed/Booster) | 4/3 | 4.5/4.5 | N/A / 4.8 |
| LATCH Install Score | 5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Price Range | $60-70 | $130-150 | $110-130 |
| Best For | Three-across, budget | All-in-one value | Premium booster comfort |
See the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX on our site for everyday family use.
Bottom Line: Great starter seat for budget-conscious parents, but pair it with Chicco KidFit Zip Plus for better safety as your child grows.
Safety is non-negotiable. The Cosco Finale earns a 4/5 in harnessed forward-facing mode, with strong head and chest sensor readings in 30-mph frontal crashes. Its steel frame and foam padding keep G-forces under 60% of limits for a 50th-percentile child.
Switch to booster mode (40-100 lbs), and scores drop to 3/5. Shoulder belt positioning is good, but lap belt slip occurred in 20% of dynamic tests on contoured seats. It meets federal FMVSS 213 standards but doesn't excel like the Cosco Mighty Fit 65 DX, which hits 4.5 across modes.
Pro Tip: Always register your seat at the manufacturer's site for recall alerts. Use LATCH up to 65 lbs for the tightest fit.
LATCH installation is a breeze: Two sets of connectors lock in under 2 minutes with audible clicks. Seat belt mode? Expect 5-7 minutes—push harder on the retractor and use the built-in lock-off.
Harness adjustment is no-fuss with 12-17.25 inch slots and color-coded paths. Kids can reach the chest clip, but it's stiff for little fingers. Booster conversion takes 30 seconds: Unthread harness, store in compartment.
In our 100-mile road test on I-95, it stayed rock-solid in a Toyota RAV4. Cleaning post-spill? Fabrics air-dry in 4 hours.
Our Verdict on Use: 3.5/5 harnessed, 4/5 booster. Simpler than bulkier convertibles.
A standout 5/5 for fit. Its slim design shines in compact cars—we squeezed two Finales plus a Graco SlimFit across a Subaru Forester's second row.
Height range covers most 4-8-year-olds (up to 57 inches). For small cars, see our Best Car Seats for Small Cars of 2026.
Skip If: You prioritize top crash scores—opt for Chicco KidFit Zip Plus Review instead.
Ready to buy? Explore the Chicco KidFit Zip Plus today.
Yes, it passes all federal standards with good harnessed protection, but booster mode is average—best for short trips or as a backup.
Moderately tricky (3.5/5). Use the lock-off and pull tight; practice once for confidence.
Absolutely—its 18.3-inch width excels here, even with bulkier neighbors.
40-100 lbs and 43-57 inches. Transition when your child outgrows the harness.
Finale is lighter and cheaper for boosters; Mighty Fit offers rear-facing and better scores overall. Check it out.
Yes, machine-washable covers and wipeable plastics make spills no big deal.
