UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller Vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller: Top

Both are excellent; V3 refines comfort and fold, V2 is solid and slightly lighter on the wallet.

You’ve stood in the stroller aisle, juggling a baby and a list, wondering which UPPAbaby Cruz is worth it. The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller dilemma comes down to small but real improvements. I tested both in parks, sidewalks, and crowded stores. I’ll share what worked for me so you can pick the right Cruz for your life.

Is UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller Good?

Yes. The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller is a clear yes for parents who want a smooth ride and modern tweaks. It is great for city walks, travel, and everyday errands. The V3 keeps the trusted Cruz framework but adds a quieter, easier fold and small comfort upgrades. If you want convenience and longevity from newborn to toddler, the V3 is a solid pick.

I used the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller for weekend park runs and quick grocery trips. Once, during a busy market day, the one-handed recline and large canopy let my little one nap while I lined up for coffee. Another time, the tighter fold made it easy to tuck in the trunk of my compact car. Those small wins added up in daily life.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• One-handed, compact fold for easy transport and storage.
• Larger sun canopy with UPF protection and peekaboo window.
• Smoother suspension and refined wheels for city and path comfort.
• Reversible full-size seat that supports from birth with infant insert.
• Travel system ready — compatible with UPPAbaby and other car seats.

What I Like

• Folds smaller and stays upright — simpler when loading the car.
• Seat fabrics feel premium and wipe clean easily after spills.
• Steering is nimble in crowded sidewalks and crowds.
• Canopy keeps bright sun out; my child naps more on walks.
• Sturdy basket holds groceries and a diaper bag without sagging.

What Could Be Better

• Heavier than some lightweight umbrella strollers, so not ideal for long carry.
• Price is higher than older Cruz models and budget brands.
• Adapter options for some car seats add cost if not included.

My Recommendation

Choose the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller if you want modern convenience, a tidy fold, and a comfy ride for everyday use. Good availability but pricier than V2.

Best For	Why
City parents	Compact fold and nimble steering for tight spaces.
Frequent stroller users	Comfort upgrades and canopy help long strolls feel easier.
Travelers	Stays upright folded and fits better into trunks and storage.

Is UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller Good?

It depends. The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller is a very good option for parents who want reliable performance without the newest tweaks. It keeps the Cruz’s classic strengths: robust frame, reversible seat, and smooth ride. If you want core Cruz quality but prefer to save a bit, the V2 is sensible.

I used the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller for neighborhood walks and airport maneuvers. On a rainy day, the included rain shield and bumper bar made a wet commute manageable. Another day, the stroller’s steady ride helped my toddler stay calm during a long mall outing. The V2 felt dependable and familiar, like a tool I could trust.

What Makes It Stand Out / Key Features

• Full-size reversible seat that grows with your child.
• Strong frame with predictable steering and suspension.
• Included rain and bug shields for all-weather use.
• Bumper bar and adjustable harness for safety and comfort.
• Compatible with many infant car seats for travel system use.

What I Like

• Reliable build that handled rough curbs and uneven sidewalks.
• Spacious storage basket fits my diaper bag and shopping.
• Simple seat adjustments — easy to change from parent to world view.
• Included accessories removed need for extra purchases.
• Feels slightly lighter to lift than the V3 when folding manually.

What Could Be Better

• Fold is bulkier than V3 and takes more trunk space.
• Canopy is slightly smaller than the V3’s extended version.
• Fewer subtle comfort improvements compared to the V3.

My Recommendation

Pick the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller if you want trusted Cruz performance at a better price. Great value when availability is good.

Best For	Why
Budget-conscious buyers	Core Cruz features with fewer premium tweaks.
Occasional users	Sturdy and reliable without extra cost for small upgrades.

UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller: Side-by-Side Test

I ran both models on the same routes to see real differences. Below I compare handling, comfort, fold, safety, and value for money to help you choose between UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller.

Handling & Steering: Which One Glides Better?

How each stroller maneuvers on sidewalks, through crowds, and around tight corners.

Feature	V3	V2
Turning radius	Tighter, easier one-handed	Slightly wider, two hands often better
Suspension	Smoother over bumps	Good, firmer feel
Urban maneuvering	Excellent	Very good
Control with toddler	Stable	Stable

Rating: V3 – 9/10 | V2 – 8/10

“V3 wins by a hair — it feels more nimble and calmer over rough sidewalks.”

Comfort & Canopy: Which Keeps Baby Happier?

Compare seat padding, recline, and sun coverage during naps and walks.

Feature	V3	V2
Seat padding	Plush, supportive	Comfortable, slightly firmer
Recline	One-handed, smooth	Smooth, may need two hands
Canopy size	Extended with peekaboo window	Good standard canopy
Infant support	Includes infant insert	Supports birth with insert

Rating: V3 – 9/10 | V2 – 8/10

“V3 offers better shade and slightly softer seating — naps improved on my routes.”

Fold & Portability: Which Packs Away Easier?

Look at fold size, one-handed folding, and storage uprightness.

Feature	V3	V2
Fold type	One-handed, compact	Two-step, bulkier
Upright storage	Yes	No (more space)
Trunk fit	Better for small trunks	Needs more space
Weight when folded	Moderate	Lighter to lift slightly

Rating: V3 – 9/10 | V2 – 7/10

“V3 wins for ease and compactness; V2 lags if trunk space is tight.”

Safety & Build: Which Feels More Secure?

Compare frame strength, brakes, harness, and included shields.

Feature	V3	V2
Brake action	Responsive	Responsive
Harness	5-point, easy adjust	5-point, easy adjust
Included shields	Bug and rain shields	Bug and rain shields
Frame rigidity	Very solid	Very solid

Rating: V3 – 9/10 | V2 – 9/10

“Tie — both models meet safety needs and feel robust on walks.”

Ease of Use & Everyday Practicality

How easy is it to use daily: adjustments, cleaning, and carrying.

Feature	V3	V2
Seat adjustments	Simple, one-handed	Simple
Cleaning	Removable fabric, easy wipe	Removable, easy wipe
Storage basket	Large and helpful	Large and helpful
Accessories	Optional adapters available	Accessories often included

Rating: V3 – 9/10 | V2 – 8/10

“V3 slightly edges out for one-handed convenience; V2 stays practical and straightforward.”

Value for Money

Compare price vs features and long-term value for buyers choosing between the two.

Feature	V3	V2
Price tier	Higher	Lower
Features per dollar	Premium tweaks justify cost for frequent users	Strong value for basic needs
Longevity	Built to last with new tweaks	Built to last, proven design
Resale	Good resale value	Good resale value

Rating: V3 – 8/10 | V2 – 9/10

“V2 is better value if you want solid performance without the latest refinements.”

Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?

The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller is best if you want the latest conveniences: a neater fold, smoother handling, and a larger canopy. It fits busy urban life where small wins matter. I recommend V3 for frequent stroller users and parents who value tiny upgrades.

The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller remains a smart pick if you want classic Cruz reliability at a lower cost. It’s durable, comfortable, and often easier on the budget. Choose V2 if you want core performance and value.

FAQs Of UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller

What is the main difference between UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller?

The main difference is refinements: V3 adds a more compact one-handed fold, improved canopy, and softer ride. V2 keeps the core design with slightly less compact fold and fewer small upgrades.

Which model is easier to fold and store?

V3 folds more compactly and can stand upright when folded. V2 folds bulkier and may need more trunk space.

Are both models compatible with infant car seats?

Yes. Both UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller vs UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller support infant car seat adapters and can be used as travel systems with compatible seats.

Which stroller is better for rough sidewalks and parks?

Both handle sidewalks well, but V3’s refined suspension gives it a slight edge on rough paths and bumpy rides.

Is the price difference worth it for V3 over V2?

If you use a stroller daily and value the compact fold and canopy upgrades, V3 is worth the extra cost. If you want solid performance and savings, V2 is the smarter buy.