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Looking for a reliable car seat that grows with your child? Our Evenflo Chase Plus review covers crash protection scores, lightweight design, easy harnessing, and real-world use. Compare specs, pros/cons, and see why it's a smart pick for families transitioning from infant seats. Includes installation tips and top alternatives.
Quick Pick
Evenflo Chase Plus
The best all-around 2-in-1 car seat for toddlers to big kids. At just 11.3 lbs, it offers Sure360 rotation, dual cup holders, and smooth mode transitions. Ideal for 22-100 lbs. Pair it with our top infant seat like the Evenflo LiteMax DLX Infant Car Seat (Olympus) for complete family coverage.
When it comes to child car seats, versatility and safety are non-negotiable. The Evenflo Chase Plus shines as a combination seat that handles both five-point harness (22-65 lbs, up to 49 inches) and high-back booster modes (40-100 lbs, 43-57 inches). Weighing only 11.3 pounds, it's easy to move between vehicles—perfect for busy parents juggling carpools, road trips, or multiple cars.
In this hands-on review, we'll dive into crash test performance, vehicle fit, installation realities, and everyday usability. We'll also compare it head-to-head with other popular options and share actionable tips to maximize safety. Whether you're upgrading from an infant carrier or seeking a budget-friendly booster, read on for data-backed insights.
We put the Chase Plus up against other Evenflo favorites and similar seats to highlight key differences. Scores are based on standardized testing metrics like Head Injury Criterion (HIC), chest acceleration, and ease-of-use ratings out of 5.
| Feature | Evenflo Chase Plus | Evenflo LiteMax DLX Infant (/p/link) | Evenflo Big Kid LX Booster (/best/link) | Evenflo All4Stages Slim (/best/link) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harness Weight Limit | 22-65 lbs | 4-35 lbs | N/A (booster only) | 5-65 lbs |
| Booster Weight Limit | 40-100 lbs | N/A | 40-110 lbs | 40-120 lbs |
| Max Height | 57 inches (booster) | 32 inches | 57 inches | 63 inches |
| Seat Weight | 11.3 lbs | 9.6 lbs | 10.3 lbs | 19.5 lbs |
| Crash Protection Score | 3/5 (Marginal HIC, Poor Head Containment) | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| LATCH Ease | 3/5 | 4.5/5 | N/A | 3.5/5 |
| Installation Score | 3/5 (Seatbelt tricky) | 4/5 | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Key Features | Sure360 rotation, dual cups | Compact, lightweight | Affordable, slim fit | 4-in-1 modes |
| Best For | Transitioning kids | Newborns | Older boosters | Long-term use |
Check current price and details on the Evenflo LiteMax DLX for your newborn phase.
Safety is the cornerstone of any car seat evaluation. The Evenflo Chase Plus earns a solid but not stellar overall crash protection score of 3 out of 5. Here's the granular data:
These results stem from rigorous frontal crash simulations at 30 mph. While it meets federal FMVSS 213 standards, the head containment issue flags it for parents prioritizing top-tier crash results. That said, its energy-absorbing foam and steel frame provide reliable structure.
Pro Tip: Always register your seat at Evenflo's site for recall alerts. Combine with proper installation for 70% better protection per NHTSA data.
See the Evenflo Big Kid LX Booster Seat Review for a higher crash-rated booster alternative.
The Chase Plus fits most sedans, SUVs, and minivans with an "Acceptable" vehicle fit rating. Its 17-inch width leaves room for a second seat, and the angled base prevents tipping on sloped cushions.
LATCH installation scores 3/5—connectors are accessible but stiff, requiring 20-30 seconds extra effort. Seat belt install is the weak spot at 3/5; the belt path can lock awkwardly on some vehicles like the Honda Civic.
Securing the child is a breeze at 4/5—Sure360 rotation spins 360 degrees for easy access, and the no-rethread harness adjusts from 15-19 inches torso height.
Our Verdict: Great for LATCH users; practice seat belt twice for confidence.
At 11.3 lbs, portability is a standout—lift it one-handed. Dual cup holders (each 3 inches deep) keep sippy cups secure, and the machine-washable pad (polyester cover) zips off for 30-minute cleans.
Kids love the plush padding (2-inch foam depth) and 10-position headrest. In booster mode, it supports proper belt fit with 6-inch side wings.
Explore the Evenflo All4Stages Slim Review for more recline variety.
Ideal for:
Skip if: You need elite crash scores or frequent airplane travel (exceeds 20 lbs checked limit).
Complete Your Setup: Transition seamlessly from infant to booster. Start with the Evenflo LiteMax DLX for babies, add RTMOK Silicone Baby Toy Straps for stroller fun, and secure with 4our Kiddies Baby Toilet Lock.
Wipe frame with mild soap; air-dry pad fully. Inspect harness monthly for frays. Lifespan: 10 years from manufacture date. Transition to booster at 40 lbs or when child can sit belt-fit unassisted.
Related Reading:
Yes, it meets all federal standards, but note the marginal head containment in tests. Proper install boosts safety significantly.
Harness: 22-65 lbs, up to 49". Booster: 40-100 lbs, 43-57".
Use the marked path, buckle and lock the belt, then pull tight. Check for <1" movement.
Yes, the pad is fully removable and machine-washable on gentle cycle.
Chase Plus offers harness mode for younger kids, providing extra security up to 65 lbs.
Up to 10 years, covering toddler to school-age phases.
There you have it—the Evenflo Chase Plus delivers solid value for growing families. Prioritize fit testing in your vehicle before buying.
