I had the same queries and worries once DD feet started to stick out of the capsule and i could no longer carry her in it. We were lucky enough to choose the car seat we wanted to buy as it was a gift from DH's parents. We chose a rear ward facing seat as we didnt think dd was ready to sit facing forward. Like u, i found it an 'annoying position to put her in and out of and straps everywhere. 2 weeks after we installed the seat (DD was 7 months and weighed 8.5 kgs) we went to the drive ins. DH changed te seat position so she could watch the movie too...and we wee suprised at how well she sat in it. We also found out the seat could be tilted back a bit so she wasnt so upright..
DD loves to sit in her car seat and often falls asleep within minutes.

Best of luck