Cosco Finale (Updated Limits)
In this review, we talk about the features and functionalities of the Cosco Finale, a forward-facing car seat. It has two modes: a 5-point harness mode and a belt-positioning booster mode. From its narrow design to its lightweight build, we explore how this seat measures up to the demands of modern families seeking convenience without compromising safety.
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Our Review of the
Cosco Finale (Updated Limits)
In this review, we talk about the features and functionalities of the Cosco Finale, a forward-facing car seat. It has two modes: a 5-point harness mode and a belt-positioning booster mode. From its narrow design to its lightweight build, we explore how this seat measures up to the demands of modern families seeking convenience without compromising safety.
Our recommendation: 2 years+ until the seat is outgrown (5-6 years old)
A 2-in-1 car seat that can be used forward-facing and in high-back booster mode
It has a 40 lbs/43.4" minimum for the harness mode, so most kids won't fit until 4+ years.
Stand Out Features of this Car Seat
Lightweight
Weighting only 8 pounds, the Cosco Finale is one of the lightest car seats on the market. For parents using Uber/Lyft daily or who travel often, this can be an option to consider.
Lightweight
This is one of very few forward-facing only seats that are regularly under $100 at this time. However, the versions produced from 01/2025 have minimum limits of 40 lbs/43.4" for the harness mode. This means that it will not be usable by most kids until around 4 years of age and is outgrown around 5.
Seat is Good for You If:
You need to fit 3 across
If you need to fit three car seats side by side in your vehicle, the Cosco Finale may be an option for you! Measuring just 17 inches in width, it ranks among the narrowest car seats available in the market today. However, make sure your child is at least 40 lbs and 43.3".
Use Caution if:
You have a vehicle with non-removable headrests.
If your vehicle has non-removable headrests that tilt forward, we do not recommend that you buy the Cosco Finale. It may not be compatible with the vehicle. You can check this post for car seat options that do work with non-removable headrests.
You have a tall child.
The highest harness height is only 16.75″ tall, so if you have a child with a long torso, this is probably not the best seat for you. This is because you need the harness to be coming from at or above their shoulders. Many other seats in this category have harness heights that are above 18″.
You want this to be the last seat your child ever needs
We have found that this seat does not work well in booster mode. Kids usually do not get a safe belt fit. Therefore, you will need a booster once your child outgrows the harness mode of this seat.
Quirks to be Aware of:
Harness Mode
The harness mode requires that your child must be at least 40 pounds and 43.4" before using it. This means that most kids would get very little use out of this seat.
Booster Mode
Although the seat has a shoulder belt guide, the manual says not to use it. It is unlikely that your child will get a good shoulder belt fit with this seat’s booster mode. We highly recommend buying a booster once the harness mode is outgrown.
Child Fit Information
Installation Information
Airplane Use
The Cosco Finale is an FAA-approved car seat, so you can find a label with red lettering on one of the stickers that says so. At just 8 pounds, it is one of the lightest options available if you want a combination seat. If traveling internationally, you will need a locking clip in order to do a seat belt installation. Contact the car seat manufacturer for a free locking clip. We have a video here of how to use a locking clip.
For help with all things airplane travel and car seats, check out our newest resource: Safe in the Sky.
SITS Bottom Line
While the narrow design makes it a potential option for three across, the new harness minimums make this seat impractical for most families. In addition, the lack of a safe belt fit for most kids in booster mode, means this seat has very limited uses.
Videos
Car Seat Quick Tour
Specifications
Cosco
Product Information
Weight: 8lbs
Width: 17"
Highest Harness Height: 16.75"
Rear Facing Limits
Forward-Facing Limits
Height: 43.3-49"
Weight: 40-65lbs
Head Height Rules: ears must be below the top of the headrest
Lower Anchor Connectors Weight Limit: 50lbs
No Back Booster Limits
Highest Belt Guide Settings
18.25″ (belt guide not supposed to be used on newer versions; does not give a good belt fit)
High Back Booster Limits
Height: 43.3-52"
Weight: 40-100lbs
Head Height Rules: ears must be below the top of the headrest
Other Important Details
Expiration Limit
10 years
Crash Replacement Policy
replace after a moderate or severe crash
Harness
rethread
Lock-off
no
Vehicle Seat Protector
This brand allows a thin towel between the child car seat and the vehicle seat.