Vista V3 for growing families; Cruz V3 for solo parents wanting a lighter, city-friendly ride.
I remember juggling a diaper bag, coffee, and a newborn while choosing between the UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller. Both solve the core problem: safe, smooth travel with a baby. The Vista V3 promises expandability and storage for multi-child life. The Cruz V3 offers a sleeker, lighter single-stroller feel. I tested both in parks, grocery runs, and airport hauls — below I share what worked, what didn’t, and which one fits your daily life.
UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller -…
DESIGNED TO FIT EVERY FAMILY: The reimagined Vista V3 Stroller offers 30 plus configurations to grow with your family starting from birth up to 3…
UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller -…
FROM BIRTH TO TODDLER: The sleek, streamlined design offers effortless maneuverability with a full-size, lay-flat reversible seat suited from birth to 50 lbs to grow…
Is UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller Good?
Yes — for many families. The UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller is a solid pick if you plan to grow your family or need lots of storage. It handles city curbs and park paths with ease. In my home, the Vista V3 became my go-to for weekend errands and long walks. I once loaded it with a toddler, a newborn bassinet, a grocery bag, and still had room left. The extra capacity mattered during holiday shopping trips.
It’s not just about size. The Vista V3 feels stable and well-built. I used it for a beach boardwalk stroll and for rougher park trails. The suspension soaks up bumps better than many single strollers I’ve tried. If you value flexibility—single now, double later—the UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller is worth serious consideration.
UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller – Full-Size Single-to-Double Stroller System – Toddler Seat, Bug Shield, Rain Shield, and Storage Bag Included – Declan (Oat Mélange/Silver Frame/Chestnut Leather)
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Single-to-double configuration: converts to carry two children.
- Large under-seat basket for big loads.
- Multi-position reclining seat and bassinet-ready design.
- All-wheel suspension for smoother rides on uneven terrain.
- Magnetic peekaboo window and extendable UPF canopy.
What I Like
- Expandable — I added a second seat easily when my toddler arrived.
- Storage capacity saved me from juggling bags during grocery trips.
- Sturdy feel — it never felt tippy even on uneven sidewalks.
- Adjustable handle height kept me comfortable during long walks.
- High resale value — I got decent trade-in value later.
What Could Be Better
- Bulkier fold — it needs more trunk space than the Cruz V3.
- Heavier to lift in and out of cars, especially when fully loaded.
- Price is on the premium side compared to many single strollers.
My Recommendation
Choose the Vista V3 if you want flexibility to expand to two kids and need generous storage. Available widely; a strong value for growing families.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| Growing families | Converts to a double and handles extra gear. |
| Long walks & parks | All-wheel suspension and stable frame. |
| Parents who shop often | Large under-seat basket holds groceries and bags. |
Is UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller Good?
It depends — but for many parents, yes. The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller feels like the nimble sibling to the Vista V3. It’s lighter and easier to fold, which made my daily outings smoother. On quick walks, tight grocery aisles, and subway steps, the Cruz V3 was easier to steer and lift. I used it for weekday errands and city walks. Its compact profile made parking lots and cafe aisles much less stressful.
However, if you expect to add a second child soon, the Cruz V3 is less flexible than the Vista V3. It is designed as a top-tier single stroller, from birth with a car-seat adapter. I appreciated its smooth one-handed recline and the maneuverability on crowded streets. For solo parents or those with limited trunk space, the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller is a strong match.
UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller – from Birth + Car Seat Compatible – Full-Size, Reversible Seat – Infant Insert, Bug and Rain Shields Included – Jake (Charcoal/Carbon Frame/Black Leather)
What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features
- Lightweight frame and compact fold for small trunks.
- Reversible seat from parent-facing to forward-facing.
- Compatible with infant car seats via adapters.
- Smooth one-handed recline and adjustable calf support.
- UPF canopy with a magnetic peekaboo window.
What I Like
- Easy to fold — perfect for quick errands.
- Nimble in tight spots like cafe aisles and trains.
- Comfortable seat for naps during walks.
- Light enough to lift into most car trunks easily.
- Clean, modern look that fits urban styles.
What Could Be Better
- Less storage than the Vista V3 — smaller basket.
- Not designed to convert to a double without extra accessories.
- Less suspension travel for very rough paths.
My Recommendation
Pick the Cruz V3 if you want a premium single stroller that’s lighter and easier to handle daily. Great for city living and small cars.
| Best For | Why |
|---|---|
| City parents | Compact fold and easy maneuvering in tight spaces. |
| Solo-child families | Lightweight and efficient for daily use. |
| Parents with small trunks | Smaller folded footprint saves space. |
UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller: Side-by-Side Test
I used both the UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller across city streets, parks, and travel days. Below I compare key categories so you can see how they differ in real use.
Portability & Fold: Which Packs Away Easier?
How they collapse and fit in your car matters every day.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Fold size | Large, bulkier | Compact, smaller |
| Fold speed | One-step but larger | Quick one-handed fold |
| Lift weight | Heavier | Lighter |
| Fit in trunk | Needs larger trunk | Fits small trunks |
Vista V3 – 7/10 | Cruz V3 – 9/10
Edge: Cruz V3 for ease of fold and compact storage, especially in small cars.
Capacity & Expandability: Which Grows With You?
Think about future siblings and gear.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Convert to double | Yes, easily | No (limited) |
| Max child capacity | Two children | One child |
| Accessory options | Many (second seat, piggyback) | Fewer |
| Basket size | Large | Medium |
Vista V3 – 10/10 | Cruz V3 – 6/10
Edge: Vista V3 for families planning another child or carrying more cargo.
Ride & Suspension: Which is Smoother?
Comfort across bumps affects naps and mood.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| All-wheel suspension | Yes | Yes, lighter travel |
| Bump absorption | Better on rough paths | Good on pavement |
| Wheel size | Larger | Smaller |
| Terrain tested | Parks, trails, sidewalks | Sidewalks, malls, streets |
Vista V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V3 – 7/10
Edge: Vista V3 for smoother rides on varied surfaces and longer walks.
Seat Comfort & Adjustability: Which Keeps Kids Happier?
Look at recline, padding, and canopy coverage.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Recline positions | Multiple and deep | Multiple, quick adjust |
| Bassinet option | Yes | Adapter for car seat; no full bassinet |
| Canopy reach | Extended with visor | Good with peekaboo |
| Padding | Plush | Comfortable |
Vista V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V3 – 8/10
Edge: Vista V3 for newborn comfort and extended naps with a bassinet option.
Storage & Accessories: Which Holds More?
Storage makes errands easier.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Under-seat basket | Very large | Medium |
| Included accessories | Rain shield, bug shield, storage bag | Rain shield, bug shield, infant insert |
| Accessory options | Extensive | Selective |
| Parent console space | Good | Good |
Vista V3 – 10/10 | Cruz V3 – 7/10
Edge: Vista V3 for larger basket and more accessory flexibility.
Value for Money: Which Gives More Bang?
Consider price vs features and longevity.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Initial price | Higher | Moderate to high |
| Resale value | High | High |
| Longevity | Scales with family | Best as single stroller |
| Overall value | Great if expanded | Great for single use |
Vista V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V3 – 8/10
Edge: Vista V3 if you need expandability; Cruz V3 if you need a high-quality single stroller for city life.
Safety & Build: Which Feels More Secure?
Both are well-built; small differences matter in daily use.
| Feature | Vista V3 | Cruz V3 |
|---|---|---|
| Frame strength | Robust | Sturdy |
| Brakes | Easy-to-reach single-step | Easy and responsive |
| Harness | 5-point secure | 5-point secure |
| Quality of materials | Premium | Premium |
Vista V3 – 9/10 | Cruz V3 – 9/10
Edge: Tie — both offer excellent safety and durable build quality.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
The UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller is best if you want flexibility to add a second child, need lots of storage, or take long walks on varied terrain. It’s heavier but wins for families who want one stroller to grow into.
The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller is ideal if you want a lighter, more compact daily driver for city life. It’s easier to fold and carry, which I loved for quick trips and tight spaces.
FAQs Of UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller
What is the main difference between UPPAbaby Vista V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller?
The main difference is expandability: the Vista V3 converts to a double and has a larger basket. The Cruz V3 is lighter and more compact for single-child use.
Which stroller is easier to fold for travel?
The Cruz V3 folds quicker and into a smaller size. If you travel often and need a small folded footprint, choose the Cruz V3.
Which stroller is better for rough terrain?
The Vista V3 handles rough paths better thanks to larger wheels and more suspension travel. I preferred it for park trails and uneven sidewalks.
Can the Cruz V3 become a double stroller like the Vista V3?
No. The Cruz V3 is primarily a single stroller. The Vista V3 is designed to take a second seat or a toddler board for expanding families.
Which offers better value for money in the long run?
If you plan to grow your family, the Vista V3 offers more long-term value because it adapts to two children. For single-child families wanting a daily lightweight stroller, the Cruz V3 is a strong investment.
Emma Grace is a devoted mother and passionate content writer at BestBabyCart.com. With firsthand parenting experience and a love for research, she creates helpful guides and honest reviews to support parents in choosing the best for their babies. Her goal is to make parenthood easier, one article at a time.