we have a AHR meridian for DD, and LOVE IT!, From memory when looking at car seats i did check out the turn a tot, but i think you can only turn it when its used in the capsule position, therefore only get turning benefit for short time. We too put car seat on passengar door side (not middle position) and had no problem lifting bub in and out (and i too have dodgy back). good luck deciding, perhaps go to another baby shop and get some more opinions from them.