Maxi Cosi

Maxi Cosi is the maker of high-end strollers and infant car seats, based in the Netherlands

Maxi Cosi was founded in 1968 by Dutch entrepreneur Sjef van der Linden, who owned a baby store in the Helmond, Netherlands. The company was originally called Maxi Miliaan Import and their first baby product was a high chair that debuted in 1978.

Van der Linden was inspired to launch an infant car seat after seeing the Evenflo 202 infant seat, which was commonly referred to as the Dyn-O-Mite, as an homage to comedian Jimmie Walker's catchphrase. The Evenflo Dyn-O-Mite was among the first infant car seats on the market in the US, but there was nothing comparable in Europe at the time.

The first Maxi Cosi infant car seat debuted in 1984.

Van der Linden's infant car seat debuted in 1984, which was called the Maxi Cosi. One unique feature was the ability to use the seat rear-facing, which while common today was unique in the 80's. The success of this seat led him to rename the company Maxi Cosi, which expanded into selling strollers as well.

In 1994, Maxi Cosi was acquired by Dorel, which went on an acquisition spree int he 1980's and 90's. Dorel also purchased Cosco and Safety 1st during this time period, folding them into the Dorel Juvenile Division. Maxi Cosi debuted in the US in 2007.

Today Maxi Cosi sells a variety of single strollers as well as travel systems that pair a stroller with an infant car seat. All Maxi Cosi strollers are made in China.

Flagship Model: Maxi-Cosi Zelia² 5-in-1 Modular Travel System

The Maxi-Cosi Zelia² 5-in-1 Modular Travel System (50 lbs., see price on Amazon) is Maxi Cosi's version of the UPPAbaby Cruz, a modular system that allows for an infant car seat. Here are the features of the Zelia:

• Includes a Maxi-Cosi Mico Luxe infant car seat and click in car seat adapters.
• When used with the infant seat, the child is parent facing.
• Reversible, lay flat toddler seat also makes into a bassinet ("carriage mode").
• Vegan leather accents on swing out bumper bar.
• Adjustable handle height.
• Storage basket.
• Cup holder.
• Pop-out visor on canopy.
• All Wheel suspension.
• Self standing fold.
• Machine washable seat insert.

One downside to the Zelia is its weight: it's about 5 lbs. heavier than the UPPAbaby Cruz. The fold on the Zelia is a two-hand fold and the wheels aren't as robust as the UPPAbaby Cruz wheels. The Cruz also has a height adjustable canopy (great for taller/older kids), which is missing on the Zelia.