Avionaut Stardust Swedish Plus Tested vs Standard Avionaut Stardust — Which Is Right For Your Family?
Every parent wants the safest possible car seat — but with different models and evolving safety standards, it can be hard to know which one to choose. In this post, we’re comparing two highly respected car seats from Avionaut: the new Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust (rear-facing only) and the standard Avionaut Stardust that many families already know and trust.
Whether you're expecting your first baby or upgrading to a longer-lasting seat, we’ll walk you through key differences, safety highlights, practical features and which is best for your needs.

🔍 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust | Standard Avionaut Stardust |
|---|---|---|
| Rear-Facing Only | ✅ Yes | Extended RF then Forward-Facing |
| Rotation | 180° towards door | 360° full swivel |
| Safety Standard | R129 / i-Size + Swedish Plus Tested | R129 / i-Size |
| Height Range | 40–105cm | 40–150cm |
| Newborn Support | Included (With Baby Boutique) | Optional insert |
| Best For | Families prioritising max rear-facing protection | Families who want long-lasting from birth to booster |
| ISOFIX Base | Integrated | Integrated |
🛡️ Safety First — What Swedish Plus Test Means
The Swedish Plus Test is one of the toughest car seat safety assessments in the world. It specifically challenges a seat’s ability to protect a child’s head and neck in frontal impacts — the most common type of collision.
➡️ Why it matters:
Children’s necks are proportionally larger and weaker than adults, so this extra testing gives an additional level of confidence — especially for babies and toddlers.
The new Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust is designed with this focus in mind, making it one of the most protective extended rear-facing options available.
🚗 Rear-Facing Only: The Safest Position for Young Children
Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust
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Rear-facing from birth up to 105cm
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No forward-facing transition — so your child stays in the safest position for longer
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180° rotation towards the car door for easier getting in and out
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Designed purely as a rear-facing solution
Standard Avionaut Stardust
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Extended rear-facing up to 125cm / 21kg
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Converts to forward-facing and then high-back booster
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Full 360° rotation for convenient seat access
💡 Bottom line: If you want the best possible rear-facing protective environment without switching to forward-facing, the Swedish Plus Tested version is purpose-built for that.
🧸 Practical Differences Families Should Know
🔄 Rotation
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Swedish Plus Tested Stardust: 180° rotation towards vehicle door — ideal for daily use while keeping rear-facing only.
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Standard Stardust: 360° swivel — great if you love a convertible seat that can turn forward-facing later on.
📏 Longevity
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Swedish Plus Tested: Excellent for birth to toddler (40–105cm), focused on RF only.
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Standard Stardust: Longer usable life (up to ~150cm) as it transitions through stages.
🛠️ Installation
Both use ISOFIX with a support leg — no separate base required.
🧼 Comfort
Plush fabrics, breathable padding and adjustable recline in both models — just tailored to each seat’s style of use.
🎯 Who Should Choose Which?
🟢 Choose Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust IF:
✔ Your priority is maximum rear-facing safety
✔ You plan to keep your child rear-facing for as long as possible
✔ You’re not concerned about forward-facing later transitions
✔ You value independent crash testing beyond regulation (Plus Test)
🔵 Choose Standard Avionaut Stardust IF:
✔ You want one seat that adapts as your child grows
✔ You value a 360° swivel for getting them in and out
✔ You want extended rear-facing now, then forward-facing later
Both seats honour Avionaut’s reputation for high-quality materials, ergonomic design and excellent daily comfort.
🧠 FAQ
Is it safe to keep my child rear-facing only?
Yes — experts recommend rear-facing for as long as possible. The Swedish Plus Tested version maximises that safety.
Do both seats install with ISOFIX?
Yes — both models use an integrated ISOFIX base with support leg for secure installation.
Is a newborn insert needed?
Yes, with Baby Boutique this is included in the price for £399.95
Can I move the Swedish Plus Tested seat to forward-facing later?
No — this model is designed purely for extended rear-facing and doesn’t convert to forward-facing.
📝 Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all car seat — but knowing what matters most to you can make choosing easier. If safety is your top priority and you want a dedicated rear-facing seat from babyhood to preschool years, the Swedish Plus Tested Avionaut Stardust is one of the safest choices in the UK market.
If you want a car seat that grows with your child and gives longer usability and easy access, the standard Avionaut Stardust remains a solid, feature-packed option.