As well as being able to take a car seat, the Akuna buggy can have an optional carrycot (an extra £85) attached. Even without the carrycot though, the Akuna can be used from birth and the seat can used forward or rear facing. The raincover is sold separately, and will add £12.50 to the price. Matching accessories are available, such as a mosquito net (£9.50), sunshade/parasol (£12.50), sleeping bag (£32.50), large changing bag (£39.50) or small changing bag (£34.50).
The Akuna comes in just two colourways - a cherry/black and an asphalt/grey combo, my personal favourite. The imitation suede fabric looks amazing and is easy to keep clean -all covers are removable and can be washed at 30 degrees
What we love
On our first outing with the Recaro Akuna buggy, as I unfolded it in the car park I could see the parents next to me assembling their buggy and enviously looking at the Akuna! Indeed, the Recaro Akuna was admired all day, especially by the dads. I had to fight my husband off so that I could test it out.
What makes the Recaro Akuna for me is the robust buggy seat. It has a 3-position recline, including a completely flat position. My daughter Esme, 2, was able to sleep and looked more comfy in the Recaro Akuna than in her bed because of the amazing cushioning. And even with the seat reclined flat, the roomy shopping basket is accessible.
I’m also impressed that the Recaro Akuna buggy seat can be adjusted to a totally upright position. Every other buggy I’ve tested with Esme hasn’t sat her up straight.
A 5-point safety harness and removable bumper bar add protection. When I took the bumper bar off, Esme was able to feel like a big girl, climbing in and out of the buggy herself.
I was impressed at just how manoeuvrable the Recaro Akuna was with Esme onboard. It’s not the lightest of buggies at 10.5kg (and Esme’s not the lightest of toddlers now she’s 2!), but the design of the wheels with ball bearings mean they spin more efficiently. The two steerable front wheels and the four rear wheels are all spring mounted, resulting in an even easier ride. The Akuna feels effortless to push, and the height adjustable handles can also spin round, making the pushing comfy not matter what height you are.
Although not designed to be an off-roader, the Recaro Akuna performed brilliantly on unpaved terrain and with tree roots galore. Esme bounced her way cross-country with ease.
The light aluminium chassis sees the Akuna fit the smallest of cars. I love the fact the entire buggy collapses, thanks to the fabulous concertina-style base. Folding and unfolding the Akuna is simple, although you do need both hands.
On the claims that this buggy can be used from birth, I for once actually believe it’s true. The buggy gives fantastic support and protection for a newborn, with lots of cushioning, soft chest pads and that lie-flat recline. Also, when using the Akuna as a rear facing buggy, you can reach your baby and get as close as you like because of the position of the open handles and no cross bar.
The raincover is very easy to attach, does a top job and comes with a clip-on carry bag.
What to watch out for
I was surprised at how well this buggy performed. The one minor niggle I can find is that the limited colourways won’t be to all parents’ tastes.
Who is the Recaro Akuna buggy best for?
Parents after a quality option that’s easy to steer, effortless to push, and able handle some bumps.
The Recaro Akuna is a brilliantly manufactured buggy that’s not just functional, but flexible, with its reversible seat direction, good seat recline positions and optional carrycot and car seat. Built to last, all features offer a top performance, and it’s not only comfy for your little one, but for you as well.
First reviewed 16/11/2010. Updated 21/02/2012.
