I wanted to update that we went back to the store, saw that it would fit in the middle just fine so we went ahead and bought it.
I did find it very uncomfortable to sit next to it (I'm a big lady).
Anyway, I wanted to attempt a passenger-side installation since I knew it was possible (thanks to you ladies). I got it in, the front seat is usable though not extremely comfortable... I have to wait and see what my carpool friend says tomorrow since she has to sit there every day for 20 minutes each way and my husband says he refuses to sit there. But then again my husband prefers to drive anyway.
I got it installed in a matter of minutes and that thing will not budge at ALL. Its rock solid!
so happy!!!
Now I just have to contact them for a new infant head support since mine got snagged in the base when I unpacked unfolded it and it has a hole torn in it. I also might have to remove the shoulder pads since we have it tightened to the limit with those on and I don't know if it was snug enough (we were rushing the basic belt position adjustments before his bedtime).
Thanks so much ladies!! I now just have to find time to have it inspected, but I'm very confident its in there correctly.