UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz – Which is the Best V2 Stroller?
Last Updated on May 27, 2021
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The UPPAbaby Vista and Cruz strollers are two of the most popular in the world. Thousands of parents rely on these strollers as a way to navigate through life with their children.
The UPPAbaby Vista was the company’s flagship full-size stroller and the Vista V2 has all of the newest and best features. It’s a convertible stroller so it can be configured to seat two children.
The UPPAbaby Cruz is nearly an identical stroller, however, it lacks the bells and whistles that come with the convertible UPPAbaby Vista stroller and has a lower starting price.
However, is getting the bigger, better, and more expensive stroller the best decision? That’s exactly what we are going to examine and help you decide in our review.
Let’s take a closer look at how the UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz strollers compare and what makes them different so you can feel confident in your stroller purchase.
Main Differences Between UPPAbaby Vista vs UPPAbaby Cruz
If you are in the market for a lightweight and stylish stroller, the UPPAbaby Cruz or Vista might be the stroller for you. Both offer a smooth ride with all-wheel suspension and easy to maneuver wheels that make life so much easier.
However, there are a few differences between the stroller models that you should consider before making a final decision.
The UPPAbaby Vista is a convertible stroller that comes with a bassinet and can be used with two toddler seats. This flexibility is ideal for families that are expecting to grow or have two children that are around the same age.
The UPPAbaby Cruz is more of a standard single stroller that has fewer features than the UPPAbaby Vista. It’s ideal for families that only need a single stroller or don’t want to spend as much on a stroller with features they may not need. If you do end up having two children, you still can purchase the PiggyBack attachment to allow your older child to ride along on the stroller.
UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz Comparison
| Features | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 |
|---|---|---|
| Stroller Type | Convertible: Single stroller that converts to a double with a second seat | Single stroller only |
| Seating Options | Bassinet, Car Seat, or Stroller Seat | Bassinet, Car Seat, or Stroller Seat |
| Seats Included | Bassinet and Toddler Seat | Toddler Seat |
| Accessories Included | Toddler Seat Bug Shield, Toddler Seat Rain Shield, Bassinet Bug Shield, Bassinet Storage Bag | Toddler Seat Bug Shield, Toddler Seat Rain Shield |
| Travel System Option | Yes, MESA infant car seats attach without adapters | Yes, MESA infant car seats attach without adapters |
| Stroller Weight (frame + seat) | 27 lbs | 25.5 lbs |
| Age Minimum & Weight Capacity | Bassinet: Birth up to 20 lbsToddler Seat: 3 months to 50 lbs | Toddler Seat: 3 months to 50 lbs |
| Stroller Size / Dimensions | 36″ L x 25.7″ W x 39.5″ H | 37.5″ L x 22.8″ W x 40″ H |
| Maximum Children | Max of 3 children with RumbleSeat and PiggyBack attachments | Max of 2 children with PiggyBack attachment |
| Color Options | More color choices | Fewer color choices |
| Washing Methods | Spot clean only. Seat and basket fabric can be hand washed and air dried. | Spot clean only. Seat and basket fabric can be hand washed and air dried. |
| Price | Higher price range | Lower price range |
UPPAbaby Vista V2 and Cruz V2 Reviews
Below we cover both the full-size strollers from UPPAbaby to explain what each has to offer. We’ll also cover specific areas where there are differences that may make the UPPAbaby Vista or UPPAbaby Cruz strollers the right fit for your family.
UPPAbaby Vista V2 Review
The UPPAbaby Vista stroller V2 has been redesigned to be the most versatile stroller they have ever produced. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 has 3 unique seat configurations to make this stroller suitable from newborn to toddler. The three-seat modes are infant, toddler, and bassinet which can be set up as either a single or double stroller.
The stroller has a luxurious all-wheel suspension system that makes the ride smooth for both baby and parents. The stroller has a generously sized basket underneath to handle even more baby gear. The stroller also comes with a rain shield and bug cover, which can be used when the stroller is in any of the seat modes.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Vista comes with all the bells and whistles of a convertible stroller
- Easily converts from a single to double stroller
- Stylish bassinet included to transport the smallest newborns and be used for overnight sleeping
- All-wheel suspension makes the ride incredibly smooth
- Includes a rain cover and bug shield for both the bassinet and stroller seat
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Heavier than the UPPAbaby Cruz by a couple of pounds due to the extra features
- Premium price tag with the included bassinet and added versatility
UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller
The UPPAbaby VISTA is one of the lightest convertible strollers at just 27 pounds. Comes with a bassinet and stroller seat to grow with your baby.
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Review
The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 stroller is an all-around affordable, high-quality stroller that can be used by parents to provide comfort and safety to their child. The stroller is suitable for children at least 3 months old and features a lightweight aluminum frame, which makes it easy to travel with and maneuver. The stroller folds easily which makes it great for everyday use when you’re trying to get the family in and out of the car.
WHAT WE LOVE
- Relatively light full-size stroller at 25.5 lbs
- Extra-large sun canopy that expands for near-complete protection
- Travel System ready with MESA mount infant car seats
- Quality luxury stroller at a good price point
- Aluminum frame makes the stroller lightweight and easy to maneuver
WHAT COULD BE BETTER
- Doesn’t come with a bassinet included for newborn babies
- Not capable of adding a second seat for growing families
UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 Stroller
This luxury full-size stroller looks and feels great being pushed down the sidewalk. It folds quickly for on-the-go parents and has plenty of space for all your baby gear.
Vista vs Cruz Stroller Similarities
Colors and Designs
All strollers feature a silver stroller frame, except for the Jake, which comes with an all-black frame.
Fabric color options for both stroller models:
- Alice: Pink
- Bryce: White
- Emmett: Green
- Finn: Blue/Green
- Gregory: Grey/Blue
- Hazel: Olive Green
- Jake: Dark Charcoal/Black
- Jordan: Light Charcoal
- Sierra: Dune / Sand
Colors specific to the Vista V2 include:
- Stella: Brushed Grey
- Declan: Oat/Tan (new for 2021)
- Greyson: Light Charcoal with Black Frame (new for 2021)
Wheels
The larger wheels on the V2 models of both strollers have been updated to be softer to absorb bumps a little better. The previous wheels felt harder and made the ride a little less smooth.
The frame has also been redesigned with a new suspension system to make the ride much smoother.
There is also a helpful indicator on the front wheels to let you know when the wheels are locked and unlocked.
All-Wheel Suspension
The V2 models of the UPPAbaby Cruz and Vista have been updated with an enhanced all-wheel suspension that has a patented two-stage system.
Each wheel has independent shocks to ensure your baby has a safe, comfortable, and smooth ride while being pushed on bumpy trails or rough pavement. It can handle nearly all-terrains you’ll face during everyday life.
Seat Functions
The seats on both the Vista and Cruz are identical. They have an easy to use one-hand recline and you can find what’s most comfortable for your baby with the multi-position recline. This is ideal to give the flexibility of sitting upright or taking a quick nap.
These reversible seats also give you the option to have your child forward or rear-facing. In the latest V2 models, the 5-point harness is not rethread which means less of a struggle to adjust it for your child’s height.
Travel System Ready
The UPPAbaby MESA Infant Car Seat attaches directly to the UPPAbaby Vista V2 or UPPAbaby Cruz V2 turning it into a Performance Travel System. It’s incredibly convenient and makes transporting your baby between the car and house a breeze.
Compatible with the following popular car seats using an adapter (sold separately):
- Chicco KeyFit, KeyFit30, & Fit2
- Maxi-Cosi Mico, Mico Max 30/AP/NXT, Citi, Cabrio, & CabrioFix
- Peg-Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35 & 4-35 Nido
- Nuna PIPA & PIPA Lite/Lite LX
- Cybex Aton & Cloud Q series
Folding
The strollers conveniently stand on their own when folded up. This standing fold feature makes storing the stroller in a closet or the garage much easier since you don’t have to prop up against something.
The UPPAbaby Vista and UPPAbaby Cruz strollers can be folded with or without the toddler seat attached.
How to Fold the Vista and the Cruz Strollers
- Push the foot parking brake to lock the rear wheels.
- Remove the bassinet or infant car seat if attached.
- Make sure the sun canopy is pulled closed.
- Extend the handlebar out all the way.
- Pull the folding release tabs up on each side of the stroller.
- Flip the stroller back towards you until it’s standing upright and locks in place.
- Push the buttons on the side of the footwell to fold it down.
- To un-fold the stroller, release the latch on the one side and pull the handlebar up until the stroller opens all the way.
Storage Basket
The extra-large storage basket may be one of the most convenient features of the strollers. It has a wide opening so baby gear can easily be accessed from the rear of the stroller, even with your baby on board.
This makes it easy to reach in and grab the diaper bag, snacks, drinks, purse, or other baby gear you pack for the day.
Sun Canopy
Offering excellent sun protection, the canopy is rated UPF 50+ which means your baby will be safe from most harmful rays. The zip-out sun canopy extends a little further down to cover your child’s face no matter where the sun is in the sky.
The canopy also includes convenient mesh panels that can be used as a peek-a-boo window or a way to increase airflow on hot days. As your baby grows, you can adjust the canopy height by sliding it up to better fit their height.
Adjustable Handlebar
If you have a spouse that’s taller or shorter, the telescoping handlebar helps you find the right height for everyone. The full-grain leather handlebar provides extra grip and comfort while pushing your little one. This is what makes the Vista one of the best strollers for tall parents.
Weight
Both the UPPA Vista and the Cruz are the same weight with the stroller frame and one seat being 25.5 lbs. The frame itself weighs 19 lbs and each seat weighs 6.5 lbs.
This is about average for a full-size stroller and should be manageable for most parents to lift into and out of the car trunk.
The stroller seats can also handle a maximum child weight capacity of 50 lbs per seat.
Vista vs Cruz Stroller Differences
Seating Configurations
The seating options are an area where the UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz really differs. The Vista is made as a convertible stroller that converts into a double stroller. While it can work with a second seat, you must purchase it separately for your second or older child.
The Cruz, on the other hand, can only be used as a single stroller. So, if you’re expecting your family to grow or are having twins, you’ll want to consider the UPPAbaby Vista.
Included Seats & Accessories
Both strollers include a toddler seat, but only the UPPAbaby Vista comes with a bassinet that can be used with your newborn. The bassinet has a canopy to shield your baby from the sun that also unzips to increase airflow on warmer days.
In terms of accessories, both come with a rain cover and bug shield. The Vista does also include a bug shield and storage bag for the included bassinet.
Overnight Sleep Option
If you like to travel, one benefit of the bassinet that comes with the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is that it is safe for sleeping overnight.
You can purchase a separate bassinet stand to snap it into place for a secure place for your little one to sleep. This is also great if your baby decides to fall asleep during your walks.
Size
While the UPPAbaby Vista V2 and UPPAbaby Cruz V2 are nearly the same sizes, the Cruz is a little more narrow when unfolded since it doesn’t need the extra space for a second seat.
When folded, the UPPAbaby Vista is a bit larger due to the extra size required to accommodate additional attachments.
UPPAbaby Vista V2 Size
- Unfolded Dimensions: 36″ L x 25.7″ W x 39.5″ H
- Folded Dimensions:
- With Seat Attached: 17.3″ L x 25.7″ W x 33.3″ H
- Without Seat Attached: 13″ L x 25.7″ W x 32″ H
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Size
- Unfolded Dimensions: 37.5″ L x 22.8″ W x 40″ H
- Folded Dimensions:
- With Seat Attached: 16.5″ L x 22.8″ W x 33″ H
- Without Seat Attached: 12″ L x 22.8″ W x 30″ H
Pricing
UPPAbaby is a premium stroller brand and you’ll pay a little more for the level of quality and durability you get. Compared to other stroller models, you can clearly see the difference in material quality, design, aesthetics, and ride smoothness in the Vista and Cruz strollers.
The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 price starts at a couple of hundred dollars less than the UPPAbaby Vista V2 since it doesn’t include the bassinet and other accessories. It also doesn’t have all the same bells and whistles that a convertible stroller like the Vista would have.
Conclusion
When comparing the UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz stroller models, the decision comes down to how many children you plan to have and what you need when they’re born. The UPPAbaby Vista is our clear favorite when it comes to versatility and being able to grow with the family.
If you only plan to have one child, you would do well with the UPPAbaby Cruz and a MESA compatible infant car seat.
In reality, there are not many differences between the UPPAbaby Vista vs Cruz. These are both high-quality strollers that are built to last you many years to come.
