I noticed that there are no Latch or tether systems.
Third rows aren’t the ideal location for a child-safety seat. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety spokesman Russ Rader says the best placement for a child-safety seat is in the second row. Second rows are farther away from a point of impact in a front or rear collision and the middle second row seat is the absolute preferred placement.
Still, it’s no rarity to have two or more children with the need for multiple safety seats, so if absolutely necessary you can install a child-safety seat in the third row using the regular safety belts instead of Latch connectors. As always, be sure to follow the child seat manufacturer’s instructions as well as your car’s owner’s manual to install the child seat correctly. Installing a child seat using the Latch system has the primary advantage of an easier installation with less room for error compared to using regular safety belts, which can often be difficult and confusing to install.
There are a few models with Latch connectors in the third row, including the redesigned 2009 Honda Pilot. The new Pilot has a total of four sets of Latch connectors (all three seats in the second row and the outboard seat on the passenger side in the third) plus six tethers for each seat in the second and third row.
One of the many parent-friendly features over at MotherProof.com is their listing of how many Latch connectors are in a given vehicle. You can find this information in any of the MotherProof.com car reviews.
Update: Toyota is recalling 90,000 units of the 2008 Toyota Highlander because of a seatbelt in the third row which may not secure certain rear-facing child seats. No injuries have been reported and the fix will be covered free of charge.
Recall Alert: 2008 Toyota Highlander, Highlander Hybrid (KickingTires)
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