Nuna Next Stage Car Seats | What's Next After the PIPA?

At Bambi Baby, we’ve had the pleasure of serving countless families over decades in the baby gear world. One thing we’ve learned? Parents of little ones all share one mission — finding the perfect Nuna car seat. Whether your baby is outgrowing their beloved Nuna PIPA infant car seat or you’re building your registry from scratch, Nuna is always (and should be!) part of the conversation.

Nuna embodies luxury, safety, and innovation in every design, with signature touches that set it apart from the rest. Known globally for its future-forward, stylish, and functional baby gear, Nuna has earned parents’ trust by putting safety, comfort, and ease of use at the forefront. At the heart of its lineup sits a thoughtfully engineered car seat collection that evolves alongside your child.

The Nuna PIPA series is one of the most popular infant car seat lines worldwide, offering premium safety and comfort for babies, paired with user-friendly features parents love. And because that first experience is so exceptional, many families stay loyal to Nuna through every stage of their car seat journey.

The Next Step After the Nuna PIPA

Choosing Nuna is the easy part — the challenge comes when it’s time to transition to your next-step car seat. Nuna’s lineup can feel overwhelming at first, with five impressive models to choose from. In this guide, we’ll break down each of Nuna’s next-step car seats, highlight key differences, and help you determine which one fits your family best.

You’ll also learn about Nuna’s one-of-a-kind features, advanced safety integrations, and GREENGUARD Gold Certification, which ensures that every Nuna car seat is crafted from materials that meet strict chemical emissions standards for healthier indoor air.

Nuna's Toddler and Next-Step Car Seats

Nuna currently offers five car seats beyond their infant car seat lineup. Three of these seats can be used both rear- and forward-facing, making them ideal for families looking for long-term solutions. While many parents begin with an infant car seat for portability and stroller compatibility, convertible car seats are just as safe for newborns and can be used for years — well beyond the typical one-year infant car seat phase.

If you’re looking to invest in a seat that grows with your child, the Nuna REVV, RAVA, and EXEC Next are all excellent options for use from birth.

For older toddlers and big kids, Nuna offers two forward-facing only models that provide a tailored fit and comfort as your child grows. Considering that children can need a car seat until as late as age 12 (as recommended by the NHTSA), having a clear plan for your child’s car seat journey can save both time and money in the long run.

Before diving into each model, let’s look at the types of car seats in Nuna’s next-step lineup:

Convertible Car Seat

• Can be installed rear- or forward-facing with a 5-point harness
• Suitable from birth or as a transition from an infant car seat
• Typically used until around 4–5 years old
• Usually has a 49-inch height limit and a 65-pound weight limit

Rotating Convertible Car Seat

• Swivels 360° for easier loading and unloading
• Rear- and forward-facing functionality with one installation
• Excellent for caregivers with limited mobility or taller SUVs
• Can be used from birth through toddlerhood

All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

• Offers three modes: rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster
• Designed for long-term use — often up to 10 years
• Smart “one and done” investment

Harness-to-Booster Car Seat

• Forward-facing only with a 5-point harness
• Converts to a high-back booster once the harness is outgrown
• Ideal for ages 3+

High-Back Booster Car Seat

• Used from around age 4+ up to approximately 10–12 years
• Positions the seat belt properly for big kids
• Offers additional side-impact protection versus a backless booster

Nuna's Current Assortment

• Nuna REVV: Rotating Convertible Car Seat
• Nuna RAVA: Convertible Car Seat with Extended Rear Facing Capability
• Nuna EXEC: All-in-One Convertible Car Seat
• Nuna LUMN: Forward Facing Transitional Harness to Highback Booster Car Seat
• Nuna AACE: 2-in-1 Highback to Backless Booster Car Seat

Nuna REVV - Rotating Convertible Car Seat

Rotating car seats are having a major moment — and for good reason. The Nuna REVV makes getting your child in and out of the car a breeze, especially for parents with tall SUVs or anyone dealing with back pain. With a quick swivel, you can face the seat toward you for easier access, then lock it securely back into place.

This is a perfect choice for parents who want to skip the infant car seat and start with a convertible model that’s easier to use from day one. With advanced safety features like an anti-rebound base, a steel frame, and GREENGUARD Gold Certification, it blends premium protection with unmatched convenience.

Its only limitation is its lower forward-facing weight capacity (40 lbs), so if you’re looking for a longer-term solution, consider the RAVA or EXEC Next.

Why We Love It

• 360 Rotation for easy ins and outs
• No reinstallation when converting from rear to forward facing orientation
• Advanced-safety integrations
• User friendly features
• Premium newborn, infant and toddler comfort
• GREENGUARD Gold Certification

Consider Purchasing a Nuna REVV if:

• You’ve opted to skip an infant car seat and will use from birth
• You’re ready to move on from the infant car seat before your baby’s first birthday
• 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

Nuna REVV Features:

• Rotates 360° for rear and forward facing riding from one simple installation
  
• Adjustable recline to 10 positions (5 rear facing, 5 forward facing)
  
• Aeroflex™ side impact protection system
  
• EPP energy absorbing foam
  
• All steel frame
  
• True tension™ door for secure and simple installation.
  
• Naturally flame resistant materials
  
• Flame retardant free
  
• Integrated rebound bar helps minimize rotation during impact
  
• 10-position, one hand, height-adjustable head support
  
• No-rethread five-point harness adjusts easily
  
• Integrated magnetic buckle holders for stress-free ins and outs
  
• Removable newborn support wedge and merino wool infant head and body inserts.
  
• Ventilation panels within the shell for airflow
  
• Two dishwasher safe cup holders
  
• GOTS™ organic cotton infant head & body inserts
  
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

• Age Range: From birth to approximately 4 years old
• Recommended Use:
  
  • Rear Facing: 5 to 30 lbs or 18 to 49 in (from birth to 2 years+)
    
  • Forward Facing: 30 to 40 lbs or 34 to 43 in 
• Weight:  29.7 lbs
• Dimensions: L 16 x W 19 x  H 25 in
  • Rear Facing: L 31 to 34 x W 18.5 x  H 19.6 to 22 in (varies based on recline and head rest position)
    
  • Forward Facing: L 21.5 to 22.5 x W 18.5 x  H 22.5 to 29.5 in (varies based on recline and head rest position)
• Expiration: 10 years from manufacturer date
• Warranty: 2 years
  

Accessories:

• Travel Bag

Nuna RAVA - Convertible Car Seat with Extended Rear Facing

The Nuna RAVA is one of the top-selling convertible car seats nationwide — and for good reason. It’s often the go-to next-step car seat for families transitioning from their PIPA. Parents love its simple installation, compact rear-facing fit (great for smaller cars), and plush comfort for little passengers.

It also supports extended rear-facing up to 50 lbs, allowing you to keep your child in the safest position for longer.

Why We Love It

• 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 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

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 - All-in-One Convertible Car Seat

The Nuna EXEC Next is Nuna’s “one and done” car seat. Designed to grow with your child from birth through booster years, it’s a smart, long-term investment that eliminates the need to buy multiple seats.

This next-generation model meets the latest federal safety standards and exceeds many of them, offering advanced protection, comfort, and convenience features for every stage.

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

Nuna Lumn - Transitional Harness to Booster Forward Facing Car Seat

The Nuna LUMN is a fresh addition to the Nuna lineup and fills a unique need: keeping your child safely harnessed for longer before transitioning to a booster. This forward-facing only seat includes a 5-point harness that stores away neatly when your child is ready for the high-back booster mode.

Perfect for preschoolers who want a “big kid” seat but still need the security of a harness, the LUMN combines advanced safety, beautiful design, and everyday usability.

Why We Love It

• 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
• GREENGUARD Gold Certification

Consider Purchasing the 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 3 years+ and over 30 lbs

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 AACE - 2 Stage High-Back to Backless Booster Car Seat

The Nuna AACE marks the final stage in your child’s car seat journey. It transitions from a high-back booster to a backless booster, providing safe, comfortable rides from roughly age four through early adolescence.

It ensures a proper seat belt fit, superior side impact protection, and plenty of room to grow — both upward and outward.

Why We Love It

• Easy to use belt routing and should positioner
• Rigid LATCH installation
• Offers lots of room for growth
• 2 stages of use
• Multi-position recline
• Superior side impact protection

Consider Purchasing a Nuna AACE if:

• You’re child is 4 years+ and over 40 lbs
• You’re child is out-growing their convertible car seat and harness height and weight limits

Nuna AACE Features:

• 2-in-1 design - Converts from a high back to a no back booster
  
• One-hand, 9 position height adjustable headrest (expands upward)
  
• Shoulder system works simultaneously with the headrest, expanding out when adjusting up
  
• 3 depths giving growing legs plenty of support and space
  
• Comfy, built-in arm rests
  
• Energy absorbing foam
  
• SIP (side impact protection) pods
  
• One-hand adjustable 8 position recline (HBB)
  
• Rigid LATCH installation for ease of use and security
  
• Colored belt path indicators decrease risk of user error
  
• Belt positioner aids in correct shoulder belt routing and minimizes user error
  
• Ventilation panels within the shell and breathable knit fabric for temperature regulation
  
• Machine washable fabrics
  
• Included dishwasher safe cup holder
  
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified

Specs and Dimensions:

• Age Range: At least 4 years old (for use after harnessed seat is outgrown) to 10 years+
• Recommended Use:
  
  • High-back booster: 40 to 110 lbs and 43 to 60 in (at least 4 years old)
    
  • Backless booster: 50 to 120 lbs and 43 to 60 in (at least 5 years old)
• Weight: 15.6 lbs
• Dimensions: L 15 x W 22.5 x H 33 (in tallest position for HBB)  
• Expiration: 10 years
• Warranty: 2 years

Accessories:

• Travel Bag

Comparing Nuna Car Seat Features

Every Nuna car seat features premium craftsmanship, advanced safety integrations, and GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials for peace of mind.

How to Choose the Right Nuna Car Seat

Selecting the right next-step Nuna car seat depends on where your child is in their journey. Here are the most common Nuna car seat paths:

• PIPA → REVV → LUMN

• PIPA → RAVA → LUMN

• PIPA → RAVA → AACE

• PIPA → EXEC Next

• REVV → LUMN

• RAVA → LUMN

• RAVA → AACE

• EXEC Next (one and done!)

To read more about the car seat journey and the right car seat for every age and stage, continue reading with: The Ultimate Guide to Car Seat Safety: Choosing the Right Seat for Your Child

What's the Best Nuna Car Seat?

The best Nuna car seat is the one that fits your child’s age, height, weight, and your vehicle. Every Nuna model prioritizes safety, comfort, and chemical-free materials, providing peace of mind that your child is protected on every ride.

Choosing the Next Stroller

If you’re shopping for your next-step car seat, you might also be ready to upgrade your stroller. Whether you’re moving from a travel system to a lightweight stroller, looking for a jogging model, or adding a double for growing families — Bambi Baby has you covered.

Continue reading about strollers with:

• Best Travel Strollers
• Best Jogging Strollers
• Best Lightweight Double Strollers
• How to Choose the Right Nuna Stroller

FAQs About Nuna Car Seats

What Nuna car seats fit onto Nuna strollers?
Only Nuna infant car seats are stroller-compatible. All Nuna PIPA series infant car seats click into Nuna strollers for travel-system use.

Are all car seats stroller compatible?
No. Only infant car seats are designed to click into a stroller for travel-system use. Convertible and booster-style seats do not attach to strollers.

How long can my baby stay in their infant car seat?
Babies typically outgrow their infant car seat around their first birthday, but check the weight and height limits on your specific model. Most infant seats are used up to roughly 30–35 pounds and around 30–35 inches. In most cases, babies outgrow the height limit before they hit the weight limit.

When should I purchase a convertible car seat?
Add one to your registry so you’re prepared — or start considering options around six months so you have time for shipping and to get familiar with the seat before you need it. If you decide to wait, begin researching and comparing models when your baby is around six months; the right convertible seat can last for years.

What is the next-step car seat after the Nuna PIPA?
After the PIPA, your baby should continue to ride rear-facing. The next step is a rear-facing convertible car seat such as the Nuna RAVA, Nuna REVV, or Nuna EXEC Next.

How long should my baby stay rear-facing?
Most state laws require rear-facing until at least age two, but safety experts recommend keeping children rear-facing as long as possible. Many premium convertible seats (including Nuna RAVA and EXEC Next) now support rear-facing up to 50 pounds, which makes extended rear-facing easier to achieve.

Can I use a convertible car seat from birth?
Yes. Many convertible models — including the Nuna RAVA, REVV, and EXEC Next — are approved for use from birth and include newborn inserts to ensure a safe and snug fit.

When can I switch my child to forward-facing?
Keep your child rear-facing until they exceed the height or weight limits for rear-facing as stated in your user manual. In addition to the typical age guideline of "at least 2 years," follow the seat manufacturer’s specific height and weight limits.

How long does my child need to stay in a 5-point harness?
Most harness systems accommodate children up to about 49 inches or 65 pounds. Keep your child in the 5-point harness until they have truly outgrown the harness settings—don’t rush the transition to a booster.

When can I transition my child to a booster seat?
Most booster seats require a minimum weight of 40 pounds, which often occurs around age four, but many children should remain in a harnessed seat until they reach the harness’s maximum height or weight limits. When they're outgrowing their convertible seat, consider a transitional harness-to-booster like the Nuna LUMN to keep them safely restrained while giving them the “big kid” feel.

Do Nuna car seats recline?
Yes. All Nuna next-step car seats (REVV, RAVA, EXEC Next, LUMN, and AACE) offer multiple recline positions to help achieve proper riding angles and improve comfort for naps on the go.

Does Nuna use flame retardants?
No. Nuna uses naturally flame-resistant materials and does not rely on chemical flame retardants.

Which Nuna car seats are GREENGUARD Gold certified?
All Nuna car seats are GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning their materials meet strict chemical emissions standards for healthier indoor air quality.

Are Nuna car seats safe?
Yes. Nuna has a strong reputation for safety, combining robust engineering, energy-absorbing foam, steel frames, and thoughtful safety features across its lineup.

Are Nuna car seats worth the price?
Yes. Nuna car seats are engineered for advanced safety, premium comfort, durable materials, intuitive installation, and longevity—qualities that make them a worthwhile investment for many families.

What is the best Nuna car seat?
The best Nuna car seat is the one that fits your child’s current age, height, and weight, and installs properly in your vehicle. Consider how long you want the seat to last and whether you prefer a one-and-done all-in-one solution (EXEC Next) or a staged approach (e.g., PIPA → RAVA → LUMN).

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 Nuna Car Seats, 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.