Peg Perego Pliko P3 Compact Review

Valentine P3

Roses are red,

violets are blue, 

this P3 is Iris, 

I love it, don't you? 

My first stroller was a Peg Perego Pliko (actually second, but my first was a Silver Cross, and that was a pram, so technically, I am correct.) I remember how the salesperson enthusiastically showed how to fold it and unfold it. To close it, you pulled up on the levers, then yanked on a lower handle. 

 

But his biggest glee was saved for the grand opening. It was one quick shake, and voila, it flew open. 

 

 I traveled with it everywhere, as one is wont to do with one child. And never once was it worse for the wear. You could load it down with bags, and it never tipped. The quick umbrella fold was perfect planes, trains, and taxis.

 

 It had a nice deep recline, and an extendable leg rest. Such a nice napping bed for all day outings. 

 

 But the two features that really got me were the HUGE canopy. So many times it came in handy for sudden downpours. 

 

And then, there was that incredibly unique feature--the rear steps for another child to catch a ride! Even at that time, I told my DH, I will never, ever, part with this. This is the most useful piece of baby gear that we have. In fact, I better get two, just in case they discontinue it! 

Of course, they didn't. And years pass; fashions change. The navy dots and stripes were unique at one time, but, well, now there were new and fresher colors out. Plaids became popular. And adorable patterns. There were ones whose names we never knew, so we made them up. The Van Gough- like "Starry Night". The Scarecrow "Fall Pliko." The pastoral scene "Farm Pliko." The "Frog Prince", "Easter Bunny", and "Martians." 

The solids became en vogue. A few more I had: the red, yellow, and blue "Primary Colors". The red and silver "Metallic." Mint green "FreeStyle". Burberry-esqe "Moda". Orange "Hip Hop.Vibrant, matching framed "Mod Blu". "Polka Dot "Revi Black."        Yes I, as with most citizens of Strollerland, was never without a P3 in the stable. Although the colors changed, the good ol' P3 remained largely the same. Still able to carry 99 pounds of two little ones, still a universal favorite of most babies, (the seat is very padded, and very upright), still light and practical.      Nice big basket, with side access.   Hinged snack tray.     Cupholder, that can be placed in 4 different locations!    height adjustable handles,      peekaboo window with mesh vent,      good sized wheels.     The latest Pliko is called the "P3 Compact."     Because, it boasts a 20% smaller fold.   Now the hardest part now is trying to decide which yummy color to choose for 2011. The soft leather trimmed "Paloma", or choclately "Java"? The exquisitely elegant "Pois Grey", or "Pois Black?" The vivid scarlet "Geranium"?   Or this year's hottest colors--the lavender and royal purple "Iris"?   I bow to the trend.     One trend the Peregos are bucking is the move to manufacture all strollers in China. Recently, Mr. Lucio Perego told me that he agonized over closing his factories in Italy. He said many of his employees had been with him for decades. They were like family, and he couldn't bear to bounce them out of their jobs. And so, they said "Ciao" to China, and kept the  Italian factories open for business.       One day, the Pliko will be retired, as will SP 2.0's cupid costume. Happily, that day is not today. Happy Valentine's Day, Strollerland!  P3 Compact Peg-Perego Weight:                             19 lbs.    Seat to canopy:                 24" Seat back:                         20.5" Seat width:                        12" Seat depth:                        11-15.5"   Drop to footrest:               10" Seat to ground:                  19" Width                                21" Length:                              31"                                           Height:                               41-43" Folded:                              40"L x 14"W x 18"H For more 2011 models, or for help choosing a stroller, go to StrollerQueen.com