Two siblings riding in two Nuna EXEC Next car seats both rear facing in vehicle

Nuna EXEC Next All-in-One Convertible Car Seat | New Nuna Product Review 2025

November 13, 2025

Stephanie Giustino

The Nuna EXEC was first introduced by Nuna in 2021 and quickly gained popularity, piggybacking off the success of Nuna’s first convertible car seat, the RAVA. While the RAVA was — and still is — one of the most sought-after convertible car seats sold in the U.S., the Nuna EXEC offered a clear distinction: long-term value. The EXEC was introduced as Nuna’s all-in-one option, offering many of the same beloved features as the RAVA with extended rear-facing use up to 50 lbs and conversion to forward-facing harness mode. However, the EXEC can continue to be used past the harness mode, transitioning to a high-back booster, whereas the RAVA necessitates the additional purchase of a next-step booster seat. Furthermore, the EXEC incorporates an anti-rebound panel, reducing rotation on impact — a feature glaringly lacking on the RAVA.

The EXEC has been a standout option for soon-to-be parents opting to skip an infant car seat and invest in a long-term solution that truly covers every age and stage of their child’s car seat journey. It also serves as a go-to option for parents looking for the next-stage car seat as their baby outgrows their infant carrier.

Since 2021 the Nuna EXEC has remained fresh with new colors and styles added as older ones are discounted, but it has never seen any functional or safety upgrades — until now. With federal safety regulations and standards changing soon (anticipated in 2026), Nuna is staying ahead of the industry and has redesigned the EXEC to be compliant with these coming changes.

Nuna EXEC Next Color options Biscotti, Granite and Caviar

What's New With the Nuna EXEC Next? Nuna EXEC vs. Nuna EXEC Next

The Nuna EXEC Next features thoughtful new upgrades focused on safety, comfort, convenience and style.

New Features:

Larger cup holder
New infant insert design
Improved magnetic buckle holders
Leather accents, similar to the LUMN™
Meets the upcoming safety standards, 213a and 213b

Nuna EXEC vs. Nuna EXEC Next side by side comparison

Nuna EXEC Next Safety Features

The Nuna EXEC Next offers best-in-class safety from its foundation to fabric choices. At its core it is built with an all-steel frame and reinforced belt path. From there, its shell is lined with Nuna’s proprietary Aeroflex foam coupled with Side Impact Protection pods that work together to absorb energy and distribute crash forces away from the child. Furthermore, the seat’s built-in anti-rebound panel prevents rotation in both rear- and forward-facing collisions, and its user-friendly installation method significantly reduces the risk of installation errors. Add in the seat’s naturally flame-resistant materials, which are free of harmful chemicals and contribute to the seat’s GREENGUARD Gold Certification — supporting your child’s respiratory health — and it’s safe to say the EXEC Next far surpasses U.S. safety standards and is leaps and bounds ahead of most car seats sold nationwide.

Is the Nuna EXEC Next Worth the Price?

Safety aside, the EXEC Next brings luxury details and features that make life easier for parents. It includes a no-rethread quick-adjusting harness and machine-washable, moisture-wicking fabrics. And for its little passenger there’s no skimping on comfort: multi-position recline, an extendable footrest, and an included cup holder make the EXEC Next as comfortable as it is functional. So if you only want the best for your child — as you should — we’d say the EXEC Next is definitely worth the price. While that price tag can be intimidating, unparalleled quality and safety for your most precious cargo is, effectively, priceless. Not to mention, when adding the cost of a standard convertible car seat plus the cost of a booster seat, that combination can far surpass the cost of the EXEC Next, which covers three stages of use in one.

Why We Love It

Advanced safety
Designed to meet upcoming (2026) changes to federal safety regulations
Quick and straightforward installation process
Longterm value
User friendly features
Premium comfort at every age and stage
GREENGUARD Gold Certification

Consider Purchasing a Nuna EXEC Next if:

You want to invest in one car seat to cover every stage from birth to booster
You’re infant is outgrowing their infant car seat
You’re ready to transition your younger child from their infant car seat to your older child's RAVA and need a seat that will grow with your older child
You need to fit 3 car seats across one row
You’re seeking the best in safety and long term value

Nuna EXEC Next Features:

All-in-one car seat, use from birth to booster
3 modes of use: rear facing, forward facing, high-back booster
All-steel frame
Anti-rebound panel reduces rotation in impact
Energy-absorbing foam
Aeroflex™ Side Impact Protection (SIP) pods
SIP seat insert keeps smaller children properly positioned
Certified to the latest side and frontal impact standards (FMVSS No. 213a and 213b)
Simply™ secure hassle-free installation
Colored belt path indicators for easy and accurate seat belt routing
True tension™ doors ensure an effortless ultra-secure fit
Spring touch shoulder belt guides aid in proper belt routing for big kids
Push on lower anchor attachments secure the car seat to the vehicle anchor points
4 rear-facing and 4 forward-facing bubble-free recline angles
Integrated tether for forward-facing security
No-rethread 5-point harness for easy adjustments
1-handed 12-position height-adjustable headrest
2-position adjustable crotch buckle adapts for growth
Ventilation panels within the seat shell for airflow
Extendable leg rest
Premium moisture wicking fabric
Quilted machine washable leg rest slipcover
Removable machine-washable fabrics
Center seat pad easily unsnaps for washing
Naturally flame resistant materials
Free of fire-retardant chemicals
Removable and washable 3” cup holders (fits sippy cup and water bottles)
Magnetic buckle holders
Leatherette accents
Slim design fits 3 across in most mid-sized vehicles
FAA-certified in harnessed mode
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

Age Range: From birth to approximately 10 years old
Recommended Use:
- Rear Facing: 5 to 50 lbs and 18 to 49 in
- Forward Facing: 30 to 65 lbs and 34 to 49 in
- High-back Booster: 40 to 110 lbs and 43 to 57 inches (4 years+)
Weight: 26.8 lbs
Dimensions: L 23-26 x W 17.4-25 x L 26.5-34 in
Expiration: 10 years
Warranty: 2 years

Accessories:

- Travel Bag

Comparing the Nuna EXEC Next to Popular Convertible Car Seats

Now that we have already covered how the EXEC Next stacks up against its original model, we know you’re probably also wondering how it compares to the Nuna RAVA and other similar all-in-one designs. We’ve got you covered — read on to learn why the EXEC Next may just be the best seat on the U.S. market.

Nuna EXEC Next vs. Nuna RAVA

If we’re talking best sellers, the Nuna RAVA is always at the top of the list. It is certainly no slouch, but pound for pound the EXEC Next is a far superior choice. It has better safety features, comfort features, and convenience features, and it significantly surpasses the RAVA’s years of use.

Nevertheless, compared to similar models the RAVA continues to be an excellent choice. Let’s take a peek to see if the RAVA is the right choice for your family and why year after year it remains one of the most sought after convertible car seats.

Why We Love the Nuna RAVA

Quick and straight-forward installation process
Compact fit when rear facing
User-friendly features
Extended rear facing capability
Premium newborn, infant and toddler comfort
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Consider Purchasing a Nuna RAVA if:

You’re baby is outgrowing their infant car seat
You have a compact vehicle or concerns with rear facing fit
You are a tall parent in need of extra front of car leg room
You want a luxury car seat at a more (comparably) accessible price point

Choose the Nuna RAVA over the Nuna EXEC Next if:

You’re seeking the more budget friendly option
You plan to pass down your RAVA to a younger child and will purchase a booster or transitional seat when the time comes
You would rather purchase a new next stage seat when your child outgrows a 5-point harness

Choose the Nuna Exec Next over the Nuna RAVA if:

You’ve done the math and recognize that although the Nuna EXEC is a higher price it is actually a more economical purchase compared to a Nuna RAVA purchase followed by a Nuna ACCE purchase
You’re seeking a long term all-in-one solution
You’re seeking the best in safety
You need to fit three car seats across one row of seating

Nuna RAVA Features:

All-steel frame and reinforced belt path for superior protection
EPO energy-absorbing foam
Side Impact Protection (SIP) pods
Simple and quick installation method
True tension™ doors for effortless secure install
Colored belt path indicators decrease risk of install errors
User friendly quick-release 3 to 5-point harness
10-position recline for customized comfort
Recline angle guides confirm proper riding angle
Ventilation panels within the shell provide airflow
Removable Infant head and body inserts
Extendable calf support provides up to 2 inches of additional legroom for rear-facing and extra support forward-facing
Premium moisture-wicking fabric provides for all-season
Naturally flame resistant materials
No fire-retardant chemicals
Machine washable cover and inserts
Dual flip-open cup holders
FAA-Approved
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

Age Range: From birth to approximately 4 years old
Recommended Use:
- Rear Facing: 5 to 50 lbs or 18 to 49 in (from birth to 2 years+)
- Forward Facing: 30 to 65 lbs or 34 to 49 in
Weight: 27.9 lbs
Dimensions: L 16 x W 19 x H 25 in
Expiration: 10 years from manufacturer date
Warranty: 2 years

Accessories:

Travel Bag

Nuna EXEC Next vs. Nuna Lumn

The Nuna LUMN is also a fairly new release from Nuna designed with the anticipated changes to side and frontal impact standards in mind. The LUMN and EXEC Next share a similar aesthetic — the most sophisticated looks from Nuna to date — and many of the same signature touches. It’s the place in your child’s car seat journey that creates the distinction between the two. While the EXEC Next can accommodate newborns and infants and offers a rear-facing installation, the LUMN is designed for older kids as a strictly forward-facing seat which conveniently also converts to a high-back booster. Read on to determine which seat is right for where your child is in their car seat journey.

Why We Love the Nuna LUMN

Transitional seat keeps child harnessed for longer
2-in-1 design
Easy to install
Advanced safety
User friendly features
Premium big kid comfort
Forward facing seat with multiple recline options
Pre-designed to meet upcoming safety standards (FMVSS No. 213a and 213b)
GREENGUARD Gold Certification

Consider Purchasing a Nuna LUMN if:

You’re child is outgrowing their convertible car seat but you want to keep them harnessed as long as possible
You’re infant is outgrowing their infant car seat and you want to transition them to your older child’s convertible car seat and need a long term solution for your older child
You’re child wants a big kid seat but they are not ready for a booster
You’re child is 4 years+ and over 40 lbs

Choose the Nuna LUMN over the Nuna EXEC Next if:

You no longer have a need (or future need) for a rear facing car seat

Choose the Nuna EXEC Next Over the Nuna LUMN if:

You’re transitioning your baby from an infant car seat to a next-step car seat
You’re child is still within rear facing limits
You plan to eventually pass it down to a younger child and move your older child into a booster

Nuna LUMN Features:

Harness to booster, covers the last stages of car seat use
5-point no-rethread harness stows away when converting to booster
9 recline options in both harness and booster modes when tethered
Recline guides confirm the perfect riding angle
10-position height-adjustable headrest to accommodate growth
Machine-washable fabrics and inserts– seat pad removes separately
Slim design fits 3 across in most mid-sized vehicles
FAA-certified for use in harness modeAll-steel frame and reinforced belt path
Aeroflex™ side impact protection system
Lightweight EPP foam absorbs energy
Certified to latest side and frontal impact standards (FMVSS No. 213a and 213b)
True tension™ door for a simple and secure install in harness mode
Open belt path provides an easier path for booster-mode buckling
Push on latch connectors secure the car seat to the vehicle anchor points
Padded armrests
All-weather micro knit fabric
Leatherette-wrapped calf support
Pop-out cup holders are removable and hand washable
Naturally flame resistant materials
Fire-retardant free
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

Age Range: Approximately 4 to 10 years old
Recommended Use:
- Forward Facing with Harness: 30 to 65 lbs and 34 to 49 in
- High-back Booster: 40 to 110 lbs and 43 to 57 in
Weight: 26.2 lbs
Dimensions: L 26.25 x W 18.25 x H 32.5 in (varies based on recline and headrest position)
Expiration: 10 years
Warranty: 2 years

Accessories:

Travel Bag

Nuna EXEC Next vs. Britax One4Life

The Britax One4Life is the most comparable model to the Nuna EXEC Next but at a noticeably more affordable price point. It is also designed for use from birth to booster and features a similar quick and effortless installation process and naturally flame-resistant materials. Besides its accessible price point, the One4Life offers a convenient advantage not offered by the EXEC Next: its fabrics are machine washable and dryer safe. That means when it’s time for clean-up the process will be quicker. In contrast, the EXEC Next fabric is machine washable but must be line-dried. For the sake of weighing all possibilities and pointing out key distinctions, if your family frequently jet-sets, the EXEC Next will be the better choice. Nuna offers a travel bag that comes with their Boarding Pass program, providing travel insurance on your car seat when packed inside their bag. This peace of mind may be invaluable if you often take to the skies.

Why We Love the Britax One4Life

Accessible price point (comparably)
All-in-One design
Impressive crash protection
Quick and straightforward installation process
Machine washable and dryer safe
User friendly features
Long term value

Consider Purchasing a Britax One4Life if:

You want to invest in one car seat to cover every stage from birth to booster
You’re infant is outgrowing their infant car seat
You’re ready to transition your younger child from their infant car seat to your older child's convertible car seat and need a seat that will grow with your older child
You’re advanced safety and long term use at the best value

Choose the Britax One4Life over the Nuna EXEC Next if:

You’re shopping on a budget and want to invest in a long term solution
You prioritize quick cleaning and maintenance
You are not concerned with fitting multiple car seats across one row

Choose the Nuna EXEC Next over the Britax One4Life if:

You’re prioritizing rear facing safety
You’re shopping with an unlimited budget
You need to fit three car seats across one row of seating
You plan to travel by plane with your car seat
You prefer a GREENGUARD Gold Certified car seat

Britax One4Life Features:

All-in-one design, use from birth to big kid
3 modes of use, rear facing, forward facing with harness and high back booster
SafeCell base includes crumple zone that compresses to absorb crash forces
Steel frame reinforces the seat structure to stabilize the seat in a collision
2 layers of side-impact protection
3 step, quick and secure seatbelt installation with Britax Clicktight method
Color coded belt path for guided seatbelt routing
Easy to read level indicators insure the correct installation angle
Patented V-shaped tether strap includes stitching that gives away gradually to slow
forward movement, reducing impact and minimizing rotation
Energy-absorbing headrest follows the head's forward rotation in a crash, reducing whiplash
Protective shell lined with energy absorbing foam
Built-in cooling channels and ventilated mesh improve air flow
Extra padding for premium comfortable
SafeWash fabric is naturally flame resistant materials
Flame-retardant free
SafeWash cover is easily removable, machine washable and dryer safe
15 harness height positions accommodate growth
Non-rethread harness
9 recline positions
Dual built-in cup holders are dishwasher-safe

Specs and Dimensions:

Age Range: birth to approximately 10 years (birth to booster)
Recommended Use:
- Rear Facing: 5 to 50 lbs and up to 49 in
- Forward Facing with harness: 22 to 65 lbs and up to 49 in
- High-back Booster: 40-120 lbs and 44 to 63 inches
Weight: 30 lbs
Dimensions: L 20.5 x W 19.5 x H 25 in
Expiration: 10 years from manufacture date
Warranty: 1 years

Nuna EXEC Next vs. Cybex Calliso G 360

The Cybex Callisto G 360 is a heavyweight contender. It launched in the U.S. in late 2024 and has been flying off shelves (and out of stock rooms) ever since. The Callisto also features a convertible all-in-one design but adds a rotation feature. This swivel ability alone may be enough to turn your head. But that’s not all: the Callisto also features Cybex’s innovative SensorSafe technology, which connects your car seat via Bluetooth to your smartphone — a potential game changer. SensorSafe is built into the harness chest plate and monitors your baby’s temperature, sending alerts when the child is too hot or too cold, unbuckles themselves, or is left behind in the vehicle. Tech-loving parents may find that alone irresistible. Throw in the unique canopy included on the seat — practically non-existent in the world of convertible car seats — and it’s easy to see why the Callisto has quickly gained must-have status.

But the EXEC Next does have benefits over the Callisto: it is more portable and easier to transition between vehicles — an important consideration for families that share one car seat between multiple rides. Also that travel bag we mentioned previously is still relevant. The EXEC Next is safeguarded against airline damage with the purchase of the Nuna travel bag. It is also a narrower design and a better choice for parents who need to fit three car seats across one row.

Why We Love the Cybex Callisto G 360

360 swivel rotation
Easily transitions from rear to forward facing with out having to reinstall
All-in-one design, use from birth to booster
Quick and easy installation
Included, removable sun canopy
SensorSafe chest clip
Advanced safety
Premium comfort at every age and stage
The best long term investment
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Consider Purchasing a Cybex Callisto G 360 if:

You’re opting to skip and infant car seat and use the Callisto from newborn on
You want to invest in one car seat to cover every stage from birth to booster
You’re infant is outgrowing their infant car seat
You’re ready to transition your younger child from their infant car seat to your older child's convertible car seat and need a seat that will grow with your older child
You’re seeking the best in safety and long term value
You have a tall SUV and challenges reaching into your vehicles back seat
You or other caregivers have mobility issues
You frequently transport children of different ages and need a seat that easily transitions from rear to forward facing and back again

Choose a Cybex Callisto G 360 over the Nuna EXEC Next if:

You have a need for a rotating car seat
You’re a tech lover and appreciate Cybex’s SensorSafe chest clip
You value unique features like a convertible car seat with a canopy!
You’re shopping with an unlimited budget

Choose a Nuna EXEC Next over the Cybex Callisto G 360 if:

You need to fit 3 car seats across one row
You frequently swap your car seat between multiple vehicles
You plan to travel by plane with your car seat

Cybex Callisto G 360 Features:

All-in-One design from birth to big kid
3 Modes of Use: rear facing, forward-facing with harness, and belt-positioning high back booster
360 Rotation for easy ins and outs and transitions from rear to forward facing
Steel reinforced frame
Quick and easy installation
Guided belt path for seat belt routing
Anti-Rebound Base & SecureFix360 Tether, minimizes movement on impact for stability in both rear and forward-facing positions
Built-in LSP (linear side-impact protection) system reduces side impact crash forces
SensorSafe integrated into chest clip sends real time alerts via bluetooth to caregivers smart phone when temperatures are too hot or cold, if the child unbuckles themselves or is left behind in the vehicle
12-position height adjustable headrest
Non-rethread harness for easy adjustments to accommodate growth
Removable, multi-stage infant insert provides a secure fit for newborns to infants up to 20 lbs
Magnetic buckle holders
Oversized adjustable UPF50+ canopy
Perforated shell and mesh fabrics for all around ventilation and temperature control
2 integrated removable, dishwasher safe cup holders
Naturally flame resistant materials
Flame retardant free - no added chemicals
GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

Age Range: birth to approximately 10 years (birth to booster)
Recommended Use:
- Rear Facing: 4 to 40 lbs and 17 to 43 in
- Forward Facing with harness: 26 to 65 lbs and 33 to 49 in
- High-back Booster: 40-120 lbs and 43 to 57 inches
Weight: 35 lbs
Dimensions: L 21.7 x W 19.5 x H 25.5 to 35.5 in
Expiration: 10 years from manufacture date
Warranty: 2 years

In late 2025, Cybex also introduced the Cybex Callisto G 360 Select- Which is offered at a lower price point from the original model and does not include the SensorSafe chest clip or canopy.

Final Thoughts: When to Purchase the Nuna EXEC Next

The Nuna EXEC Next is a best-in-class — potentially the best-in-class — car seat option. While its price tag can be intimidating, as with any major purchase, you get what you pay for, and a car seat is not where you want to skimp. Its price reflects advanced safety, premium comfort, user-friendly design, smart material choice, and luxury features — all catering to your child for the long haul. This is an investment worth making.

So when’s the right time to purchase an EXEC Next? If you’re expecting, it’s always smart to put it on your baby registry, whether you plan to use it from birth or store it until your infant car seat is outgrown. If it’s gifted to you, you won’t have to absorb the cost later on.

If you weren’t gifted an EXEC Next, consider purchasing when your baby is around six months old, giving you plenty of time to get familiar with it before baby is ready to make the swap from their infant car seat.

Wrapping it up: the Nuna EXEC Next is definitely worth considering because, well, your baby deserves the best.

Continue reading about Nuna Products with:

FAQs about the Nuna EXEC Next

What’s new with the Nuna EXEC Next?
The Nuna EXEC Next is designed to meet upcoming safety standards, 213a and 213b. It also features a larger cup holder, a new infant insert, improved magnetic buckle holders, and leather accents.

How long can the Nuna EXEC Next be used?
The Nuna EXEC Next features an all-in-one design for use from birth to booster. It can accommodate children from newborn up to approximately 10 years old.

Can the Nuna EXEC Next be used on an airplane?
Yes, the Nuna EXEC Next is FAA-approved.

Does the Nuna EXEC Next fit in compact cars?
The Nuna EXEC Next is fairly compact when rear facing; however, the most compact option is the Nuna RAVA, which offers the best rear-facing fit in smaller vehicles.

Can the Nuna EXEC Next fit 3 across?
Yes, the Nuna EXEC Next features a slim design and can fit three across in most mid- to large-size vehicles.

Is the Nuna EXEC Next safe?
Yes. The Nuna EXEC Next is stacked with impressive safety features, including an anti-rebound panel, steel frame, energy-absorbing foam, side impact protection pods, and GREENGUARD Gold Certification.

Does the Nuna EXEC Next contain flame retardants?
No. The Nuna EXEC Next is made with naturally flame-resistant materials, negating the need for flame-retardant chemicals.

What is the best budget-friendly alternative to the Nuna EXEC Next?
Parents on a stricter budget should consider the Britax One4Life, which features a similar design, safety, and long-term use.

Which has better safety features: the Nuna EXEC Next or the Nuna RAVA?
The Nuna EXEC Next features an anti-rebound panel, which is not present on the Nuna RAVA. This gives the Nuna EXEC Next a safety advantage.

Can the Nuna EXEC Next be used on a stroller?
No. The Nuna EXEC Next is not stroller compatible, which is typical for convertible car seats. Only infant car seats can be paired with a stroller for travel system use.

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions?

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding the Nuna EXEC Next, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.