UPPAbaby Aria vs. Mesa V2 vs. Mesa Max Infant Car Seats

So many car seats, so little time to research! An expecting parent’s job is never done — so we’re here to make things a little bit easier.

Does the perfect infant car seat exist? If UPPAbaby has anything to say on the matter, it sure does!

The highly-regarded baby brand offers a trio of top-tier options that provide safety, comfort, and style in every ride.

Whether you're a first-time parent or expanding your family, understanding the nuances between UPPAbaby’s Aria, Mesa V2, and Mesa Max infant car seats can help you make the best choice for your newborn.

Keep reading as we present a comprehensive comparison to guide you through their features, similarities, and of course, differences!

Triple Threat

ARIA SPECS:

Suitable from 4 to 30 lbs. or 30” in height
Infant Insert: For use from 4 lbs. to 4 months
Car Seat Weight: 5.9 lbs.
Car Seat Dimensions: 24.5” L x 17” W x 18.5” H
Base Weight: 12.6 lbs.
Base Dimensions: 23.9” L x 14” W x 15.2” H

MESA V2 SPECS:

Suitable from 4 to 35 lbs. or 32” in height
Infant Insert: For use from 4 to 11 lbs.
Car Seat Weight: 9.9 lbs.
Car Seat Dimensions: 17” L x 25.8” W x 23” H
Base Weight: 9 lbs.
Base Dimensions: 14.5” L x 21.3” W x 10.3” H

MESA MAX SPECS:

Suitable from 4 to 35 lbs. or 32” in height
Infant Insert: For use from 4 to 11 lbs.
Car Seat Weight: 9.9 lbs.
Car Seat Dimensions: 17” L x 25” W x 24” H
Base Weight: 12.6 lbs.
Base Dimensions: 14” L x 24” W x 17.5” H

Similar Rides

Given their shared brand name, these three infant seats are bound to have several similarities. Let’s take a look at the features these baby rides share:

Infant Insert: All three models include an infant insert, supporting newborns starting at 4 lbs. This critical feature ensures even the smallest passengers are snug and secure from their very first ride until they grow into the car seat's standard sizing.

Travel Compatibility: These car seats integrate with UPPAbaby strollers (some with the use of adapters depending on the model), embodying the brand's commitment to creating a convenient, high-quality travel system. This compatibility allows parents to effortlessly transition their baby from car to stroller and back with minimal disruption.

Adjustable Headrests: Designed with growing babies in mind, each car seat features adjustable headrests. This adaptability ensures optimal comfort as your child grows and maintains proper head and neck alignment, crucial for safety and comfort during journeys.

Easy Installation: UPPAbaby's SMARTSecure system revolutionizes car seat installation with its accurate and secure LATCH and seat belt lock-off connections. The inclusion of bubble levels and intuitive red-to-green indicators on the bases provides parents with visual confirmation of secure placement, simplifying what is often a nerve-wracking process!

European Routing: Offering flexibility for families on the go, each car seat incorporates a European belt path on the shell. This feature allows for safe installation in vehicles without the base, ensuring your baby’s safety is always a top priority, no matter the travel situation. In addition, all three seats are FAA-approved to bring on your next flight!

Plush Fabrics: Recognizing that comfort can significantly impact a baby's car ride, the Aria, Mesa V2, and Mesa Max are upholstered in soft, luxurious, and breathable fabrics. These plush materials ensure your little one remains cozy, making all journeys enjoyable.

Awesome Accessories: UPPAbaby complements its car seats with a wide array of accessories, enhancing functionality and convenience. From travel bags and rain shields to the CozyGanoosh and cabana weather shields, these additional options allow parents to customize their baby’s travel gear to suit any environment or weather condition. Check out our Top UPPAbaby Mesa Infant Car Seat Accessories article for more information!

Standout Seats

The Aria, Mesa V2, and Mesa Max all have exclusive features that make them unique. You’ll want to take into account the following differences when making your decision:

Weight & Dimensions: The Aria stands out for its exceptionally light frame, weighing in at just 5.9 lbs., making it one of the lightest infant car seats on the market! This feature is especially appealing to parents who frequently carry their car seat between locations. In contrast, the Mesa V2 and Mesa Max are heavier at 9.9 lbs. The Aria is also smaller in diameter.

Capacity: While both the Mesa V2 and Mesa Max are suitable for infants up to 35 lbs. or 32” in height, the Aria has a slightly lower weight and height capacity, allowing a maximum of 30 lbs. or 30” in height.

Safety: Both the Aria and Mesa Max are equipped with a load leg and an anti-rebound panel for enhanced stability and impact protection. All three boast an anti-rebound handlebar as well as dense foams, side-impact protection, and a no-rethread harness for added safety.

Canopy: Protection from UV rays is a shared priority, with all seats featuring UPF 25+ canopies. However, the Aria and Mesa Max go a step further by offering oversized canopies that almost entirely cover the seat, providing superior protection and privacy for your baby!

Airflow: The Mesa Max introduces side panel vents, and the Aria incorporates back panel vents — both focusing on superior ventilation. This attention to airflow ensures a comfortable and cool environment for your baby, particularly beneficial during warmer weather or longer trips.

Colours: UPPAbaby offers a variety of colour options across all three models, allowing parents to choose a car seat that not only meets their safety and comfort needs but also aligns with their personal style or vehicle interior.

UP, UP & Away

Choosing between the Aria, Mesa V2, and Mesa Max comes down to prioritizing what matters most to you and your family.

If portability and ease of use are key, the Aria's lightweight design and ergonomic features make it an attractive option. For those valuing advanced safety features and comfort (especially in warmer climates), the Mesa Max offers premium enhancements worth considering. The Mesa V2 balances these options, providing a robust set of features at a slightly lower cost.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with UPPAbaby, and any of these exceptional car seats will provide a safe, comfortable, and stylish ride for your little one!

For more information on these models, check out our full in-depth reviews!