I have been using this vehicle for winter transportation. It still has the studless snow tires on it. I can verify the safety of this vehicle and have scheduled a state inspection for it at my mechanic. THIS VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH THE THIRD SEAT! I would think it would have to be for very small children, or a pet, as the foot well is probably 2" deep. In reality, a child seat would create a serious obstacle to a child fitting at all. I use the rear to transport my son's wheelchair..