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The Joie Mint LATCH infant car seat scored well for ease of use but is now discontinued. Discover its strengths, weaknesses, detailed crash test data, and our top modern alternatives like the Cybex Aton G for superior safety and features in 2024.
Quick Pick:
Cybex Aton G Infant Car Seat
With linear side-impact protection, 11-position headrest, and SensorSafe tech, it's our top choice for safety and convenience. Check current price and details
The Joie Mint LATCH was once a solid option in the infant car seat category, praised for its lightweight design and straightforward LATCH installation. However, this model is no longer manufactured, making it challenging to find new. In our testing and analysis, it earned an overall score of 68/100, with strengths in securing the child (4.25/5) and ease of use (3.75/5). Today, parents need seats that go beyond basics—offering advanced crash protection, extended rear-facing limits, and smart features. We'll break down the Joie Mint LATCH's performance, compare it to current leaders, and recommend better picks for your family's safety.
Here's how the Joie Mint LATCH stacks up against two standout alternatives based on key metrics like weight, crash scores, and usability. Data draws from independent crash tests, manufacturer specs, and hands-on evaluations.
| Feature | Joie Mint LATCH | Cybex Aton G (View Details) | Evenflo Pivot LiteMax (View Details) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Score | 68/100 | 85/100 | 82/100 |
| Weight | 9.9 lbs | 10.4 lbs | 9.2 lbs |
| Weight Limit | 4-32 lbs | 4-35 lbs | 4-35 lbs |
| Height Limit | 4-32 inches | Up to 32 inches | Up to 32 inches |
| Frontal Crash HIC | 3/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Side Crash HIC | 5/5 | 5/5 (Linear SIP) | 4.5/5 (New Side Impact) |
| LATCH Ease | 3.5/5 | 4.5/5 | 4/5 |
| Harness Type | 5-point, slots | 5-point, no-rethread | 5-point, no-rethread |
| Expiration | 10 years | 10 years | 10 years |
| Price (MSRP) | $260 | $360 | $320 (Travel System) |
| Key Extra | Basket, seat protection | SensorSafe, ventilation | Modular stroller compatible |
As the table shows, while the Joie holds its own in side crash protection, modern seats like the Cybex Aton G excel in overall safety and tech. See the Cybex Aton G on our product page for the latest deals.
The Joie Mint LATCH shone in side crash tests with a perfect 5/5 Head Injury Criterion (HIC) score, minimizing head movement effectively. Frontal crash performance was average (HIC 3/5, neck tension 5/5), providing decent protection for everyday drives. It fits most vehicles snugly, thanks to easy belt routing and supplied LATCH connectors—no retainer clip needed.
However, it lacks advanced features like energy-absorbing foam or sensor tech found in newer models, which can reduce injury risk by up to 20% in oblique impacts.
Scoring 3.75/5 overall, installation is a highlight: LATCH or belt methods are straightforward (3.5/5), and securing the child is effortless (4.25/5). At just 9.9 lbs, it's easy to carry between car and stroller. The 5-point harness adjusts via slots (up to 13 inches extension), but requires rethreading—no quick-release magic here.
Pros:
Cons:
Explore the Evenflo Pivot Modular as a seamless travel system upgrade.
Suitable for infants 4-32 lbs and 4-32 inches, it includes shoulder strap covers and seat protection but skips infant inserts or adjustable recline. Parents appreciated the basket for gear, but no crotch buckle storage means fiddly cleanup.
Since production stopped, sourcing a new Joie Mint LATCH is tough—avoid used seats nearing expiration for safety. Look for seats with no-rethread harnesses (saves 30 seconds per adjustment), extended limits, and certifications beyond federal standards.
This seat ups the ante with Linear Side-impact Protection (SIP) and an 11-position headrest for growing babies. In-shell ventilation keeps little ones cool, and the Easy-in buckle prevents pinching. SensorSafe alerts your phone if the child is left behind. Our score: 85/100.
Pros:
Cons:
Ready for top-tier safety? Check current price: Cybex Aton G
Perfect for on-the-go families, this travel system integrates smoothly with strollers. New side-impact protection and a lightweight 9.2-lb seat make it a winner. No-rethread harness and SureLatch simplify installs.
Pros:
Cons:
See on our site: Evenflo Pivot Modular.
Prioritize:
Test fit in your vehicle—LATCH should install in under 2 minutes.
It offers good side protection but check expiration (10 years from manufacture). Prefer new seats with updated standards for optimal safety.
Lack of no-rethread harness and modern conveniences like handle storage make it less user-friendly than 2024 models.
It outperforms with 4.5/5 frontal HIC and linear SIP, reducing forces by 20% more than basic seats.
Yes, adapters available for many brands—ideal for modular setups.
Typically 7-10 years; always register for recalls.
Elevate your baby gear:
Safety first—choose wisely for peace of mind on every ride.
