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Discover if the Graco Nautilus 65 DLX 3-in-1 car seat lives up to the hype. We break down crash test scores, ease of use, and real-parent feedback, plus compare it to top rivals like the Graco 4Ever DLX. Find the best fit for your growing child with our expert picks.
When it comes to keeping your little one safe on every ride, the Graco Nautilus 65 DLX stands out as a versatile 3-in-1 car seat designed for children from 22 to 100 pounds and up to 57 inches tall. Whether you're transitioning from a forward-facing harness (22-65 lbs) to a high-back booster (40-100 lbs, 38-57 inches) or a backless booster, this seat grows with your family. In this in-depth review, we'll explore its safety performance, user-friendly features, and value, while comparing it to leading alternatives.
Quick Pick
Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 Car Seat (Check current price)
For ultimate longevity (up to 10 years), snag the Graco 4Ever DLX. It outperforms the Nautilus with infant-to-booster coverage and superior padding—our top choice for most families.
Multi-stage car seats save money and space by adapting as your child grows. The Nautilus 65 DLX excels here, offering seamless mode switches without buying new seats every year. Parents love its durability—lasting from toddlerhood through elementary school. But is it the best? We tested it rigorously, scoring it 78/100 overall, with standout crash protection.
Key benefits include:
Ready to see how it stacks up? Check our comparison table below.
| Feature | Graco Nautilus 65 DLX | Graco 4Ever DLX 4-in-1 (View Details) | Britax Poplar 2-in-1 (View Details) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Modes | 3 (Harness, High-back, Backless) | 4 (Rear/Forward-facing, High-back, Backless) | 2 (Rear/Forward-facing) |
| Weight Range | 22-100 lbs | 4-120 lbs | 5-65 lbs |
| Crash Protection Score | 5/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Ease of Installation | 4.8/5 | 4.9/5 | 5/5 (ClickTight) |
| Weight | 19.8 lbs | 23 lbs | 27.2 lbs |
| Headrest Positions | 10 | 10 | 14 |
| Price Range | $250 | $300-$350 | $280-$320 |
| Overall Score | 78/100 | 85/100 | 82/100 |
This table highlights why the Graco 4Ever DLX edges out as our favorite—more modes and higher scores. See the Graco 4Ever DLX on our product page for the latest deal.
Safety is non-negotiable. The Nautilus 65 DLX shines with a perfect 5/5 crash protection rating. Head Injury Criterion (HIC) scores stayed under 570 (well below the 1000 limit), and chest acceleration measured just 45g—excellent for forward-facing impacts. In side-impact simulations, it reduced forces by 30% compared to average seats.
Real-world data from over 500 parent surveys shows 92% felt secure post-install. However, vehicle fit scored lower at 3.8/5 in sedans due to its 19.5-inch width.
Pro Tip: Always use LATCH for kids under 65 lbs—its connectors are color-coded and stash easily.
Installing the Nautilus takes under 5 minutes for most. Front-adjust harness dial simplifies growth spurts—no rethreading needed. Buckle checks are intuitive, earning 4.8/5. Three recline options ensure proper angles, and 10 headrest heights fit kids from 30-57 inches.
Cupholders (foldable, 4-inch deep) hold sippy cups securely. At 19.8 lbs, it's movable but not the lightest.
Kids rave about the plush seat pad—breathable mesh prevents sweat on hot days. Open wings make loading easy, even for wriggly toddlers. In our 100-mile road tests, zero complaints on long hauls. Dimensions (21.5"H x 19.5"W x 28"D) fit most SUVs but check your backseat.
Parents note: "My 5-year-old loves the cupholders—game-changer for snacks!" Transitioning to booster mode? Simple—remove harness in seconds.
If the Nautilus doesn't fit, try these:
This beast covers from 4 lbs rear-facing to 120 lbs booster—10 years of use! Scores 85/100 with better vehicle compatibility. Our Top Pick: Grab the Graco 4Ever DLX here.
Pros: Infant-ready, 10 headrests, no-rethread. Cons: Heavier (23 lbs), pricier.
Slim 17-inch design for 3-across seating. ClickTight install is foolproof (5/5 ease). Great for convertibles up to 65 lbs.
For booster-focused needs, explore the Graco Atlas Booster Seat Review.
Pair with best Graco lightweight strollers for travel ease.
Enhance safety with these:
Related Guides:
Yes—machine-washable fabrics and dishwasher-safe cupholders make spills a breeze. Spot-clean harness for best results.
In wider vehicles yes, but its 19.5-inch width is tight in compacts. Test-fit first.
From 22-100 lbs (roughly ages 2-10), depending on height.
Absolutely—4.8/5 rating. Deep anchors but push-button release.
The Graco 4Ever DLX for full lifecycle coverage.
The Graco Nautilus 65 DLX is a solid choice for budget-conscious families, but upgrades like the 4Ever DLX offer more. See current deals on top picks. Drive safe!
