My Britax Frontier 85 was in an accident and had to be replaced, so I decided to spend an extra $30 and go with the new SICT model. Here's a quick rundown of the differences that I noticed, in case you're debating which one to get.
The frame appears to be largely identical to the original. The top, however, is much wider overall due to the mounting of the side impact cushions. If you have a sedan or something with rear seats right up against the door, you may want to make sure that your passenger door won't bump this area upon closure before you purchase. Or at least buy from a retailer with an easy return policy.
The nice little changes:
1) I got Cardinal red, and the fabric was a big improvement. I hated the mesh on the Canyon style. This new fabric is thick, smooth, and looks easy to clean.
2) The little black shoulder pads on the shoulder straps are now easily removeable! They have velcro, so they can be removed and cleaned without fuss.
3) The central part of the cover can be removed without dissasembling the straps completely. Much easier!
4) The crotch pad has a little extra piece of elastic stitched on that keeps it from sliding around or twisting the wrong way.
Overall, the new details add convenience, and the SICT adds safety. I bought mine for $254 online, and (so long as it fits in my car- won't know til I get the car back from the body shop!) I think it's a good deal.
The frame appears to be largely identical to the original. The top, however, is much wider overall due to the mounting of the side impact cushions. If you have a sedan or something with rear seats right up against the door, you may want to make sure that your passenger door won't bump this area upon closure before you purchase. Or at least buy from a retailer with an easy return policy.
The nice little changes:
1) I got Cardinal red, and the fabric was a big improvement. I hated the mesh on the Canyon style. This new fabric is thick, smooth, and looks easy to clean.
2) The little black shoulder pads on the shoulder straps are now easily removeable! They have velcro, so they can be removed and cleaned without fuss.
3) The central part of the cover can be removed without dissasembling the straps completely. Much easier!
4) The crotch pad has a little extra piece of elastic stitched on that keeps it from sliding around or twisting the wrong way.
Overall, the new details add convenience, and the SICT adds safety. I bought mine for $254 online, and (so long as it fits in my car- won't know til I get the car back from the body shop!) I think it's a good deal.
