ABC Expo 2011: What’s new from Diono

This year Diono didn’t have a booth at ABC since they weren’t sure if they would have their new products in time for the show. Luckily, they did manage to have some products ready and they wound up in a big meeting room at the convention center.  We popped in to say hi and check out what was new and updated.  Unfortunately, the highly anticipated recline angle adjuster for their convertible seats didn’t make it to the show so we have nothing new to report on that accessory at this time.  But as soon as we have ANY news to share – we will post it (probably on our carseatblog facebook page). 

New Diono Radian models are shipping this week!  That means good deals can be found on existing stock of Radian models.

The new 3-in-1 models (RXT, R120 & R100) offer 2″ more interior room but have the same external dimentions as the original Radian models.  New models will also have darker grey shells & darker red belt guides.  LATCH is recommended in booster mode!  There is a standing height limit of 44″ listed for the rear-facing position (language in manual says 1.5″ of shell above head OR 44″ tall) *BUT* Diono has confirmed for us, in writing, that you can continue to use the seat RF if your kid exceeds 44″ tall but still has more than 1.5″ of shell above his/her head. This is great news and we’re really happy they took this stance.  I’m not sure how many kids taller than 44″ still fit RF with more than 1.5″ of shell over their head, but either way we’d like to hear comments from you on this issue.      

New Monterey booster with different shoulder belt guide placement. The updated placement of the belt guide should help the seat fit better on kids with narrow shoulders.  

Belt guide for booster mode on R100 & R120: