I don't know if it is just the Britax, or all convertible seats. We've been 'window shopping' lately, looking at different car seats, and I didn't think any of the convertibles looked safe or appropriate for a newborn. They look great for older babies and toddlers, but don't seem to recline enough for a newborn baby. We've decided to go with an infant seat for the first 6 - 9 months, and then change to a convertible. Of course I have no experience on this, but that's how I felt after looking at all the car seats.