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I've been interested in the RL since it was released being a Legend owner all of my life (still own two). Life has changed to where I need a big family truck to haul the wife and three kids as well as a second car (or small truck) capable of handling three car seats. One seat for the oldest could be a booster combo type seat.
Recently, I've been searching for a 09-12 RL that would fit the bill but most car seat sites say that they cannot fit three car seats across the back (my set up would be booster type, infant carrier, combination seat). I was just wondering if anyone on here could confirm whether or not this is true before I scratch this car off of my short list.
I think it would be possible, especially if you put the infant seat in the middle. That would put the widest part toward the front versus the booster and combo whose widest parts are in the rear. I would take all three seats and see before crossing it off the list.
The backseats are not made for it. The centre higher in level than the two seats, and there are no hooks in the centre only the sides. You'd use the 3rd seatbelt and basically position it in lieu of the center armrest. The other units better be lean and thin.
If the seats are secured to the frame, it doesn't matter how tight they are side to side. In fact, the less lateral play, the better. I know two of our 4 seats (2 kids x 2 cars) are designed for three across in a compact car. As long as they aren't ultra-luxury, big ass car seats, there is a reasonable possibility.
I'm a little apprehensive whether 3 car seats would fit across. Like a previous person said, the middle position doesn't have LATCH, so you'd have to use the seatbelt. It MIGHT fit if you had narrower seats, such as Diono Radian RXT. Definitely need to test it before you buy the car.
You could share the inside latches for the middle seat if it was a real concern for you. For me, my passenger rear seat doesn't have latches even though the driver's side and middle do. Since I wouldn't dare keep my kids within arms reach of each other, I just strap the little girl's seat down with the belt.
I think a careful choice of seats is indeed key. they gotta be slim. And for example, if one is to share the latches for the middle seat, the seat has to come with old normal thin hooks.
These are my current hooks. these new models are relatively easier to install (you get 25% of that 'kill me now' feeling while you install them on); but i doubt u could fit two on there. 3rd middle seat belt would be a good option. but surely slim and lean seats.
It's hard to believe that Acura didn't plan accordingly for three car seats to fit in the RL. I remember way back when the 04-08 TL had 3 LATCH across the backseats. What a shame.
I finally found a nice example of an 09-12 RL locally and then I learn it will not suit my needs. Oh well. Btw- I believe the RLX does accommodate three seats in the back.
07-11-2016, 06:24 AM
