UPPAbaby Cruz Stroller Review
Price $649
BUY NOW Amazon Buy Buy Baby NordstromPrice: MSRP $649+
Weight: 25.5 lbs
Oops they did it again… UPPAbaby took an already-bestselling stroller and made it even better. That’s right, the UPPAbaby Cruz stroller got an updo for 2020, and we’re totally gaga over all the useful features and impressive upgrades. If you’re looking for a daily do-it-all single stroller that’s meant to last, look no further. At last: our UPPAbaby Cruz stroller review.
Overview
For the UPPAbaby Cruz version V2, the stroller goes bigger in features and smaller in its fold. We’re talking bigger wheels and basket, more upscale details and fabrics, and more.
Overall, the Cruz V2 remains the peppier, more affordable full size offering from UPPAbaby (vs. its big sister, the Vista), though more rugged (and bigger/heavier) than its older version.
Bottom line: “Compact without compromise” still holds true for this newer version, though the extra lbs are an unwelcome addition.
Weight
If you’re after a lightweight stroller, the Cruz stroller may not make the top of your list. Weighing 25.5 lbs, it’s barely lighter than the single-to-a-double UPPAbaby Vista V2 (27 lbs) and 4 pounds heavier than the previous Cruz stroller (21.5 lbs). That’s because of the bigger wheels and roomier seat.
The increase in weight is a major bummer, as the Cruz was a good contender for a lightweight, full size stroller. Interestingly enough, it’s still lighter than its biggest competitor, the Nuna Mixx (25.5 lbs vs. 26.8 lbs).
Seat
Like the UPPAbaby Vista, the Cruz stroller is “modular”, which means the seat can face forward or backward, though it does not come with a bassinet like the Vista stroller (however, you can buy the UPPAbaby bassinet separately). Also, it is a single stroller — it cannot convert into a double later on, so you can really only use it for one child (or two, with the PiggyBack Board) — something to consider since now the Cruz’s and Vista’s weights are not that different anymore. See also: Best reversible strollers.
Good news for parents of tall and/or big kids: the toddler seat is now longer and offers more space. Compared with the 2019 Cruz, the new and updated seat back and leg rest on the Cruz V2 are both 2″ longer, and the footrest is a half-inch deeper — both of which mean more comfort for children who are on the larger side.
The seat features a one-hand recline that lets you change your little one’s position in a jiffy.
Another plus: the Cruz’ new version offers a no-rethread harness for faster, easier adjustments. This is a major upgrade from the 2019 stroller, which required you to remove the harness from its slots in order to make height changes.
Fold
We already loved the easy “one-step” fold of the original Cruz stroller, but the updated version is even better. Why? Two words: more compact!
Compared to its 2019 counterpart, the Cruz V2 is nearly 4 inches shorter when folded. You know what that means, right? It’s easier to carry around when traveling AND to stash away in your closet or in the trunk. The heavier weight might make it harder to lift, but at least it takes up less space…
We also love the fact that it stands on its own when folded.
Wheels
The tires on the Cruz stroller mimic the cushioned ride of an air-filled tire that you may find in a jogging stroller, but with the lightweight benefit of foam. *This is not an all-terrain stroller, per se, but it’s still a darn good ride!
In fact, the Cruz V2 may even take it up a notch in the smooth ride department. With its bigger, softer wheels and all-wheel suspension (the 2019 Cruz only had suspension in the front), the stroller softens winding and bumpy paths, making it ultra comfortable for your little ones, especially as they grow bigger and heavier.
These larger wheels are now very similar to those on the Vista (below) and makes the V2 more like a “compact all-terrain” stroller, somewhat like the Baby Jogger City Mini GT, but in a luxury package.
The patented “two-stage system” means that when you put pressure onto the frame, the springs on the wheels will work independently to make the stroller bounce back and absorb shock before it gets to the seat and to your babe. Hello on-the-go naps… 😏
Car Seat Compatibility
UPPAbaby sells car seat adapters that are compatible with Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, Cybex and Chicco. That said, if you are getting the Cruz or the Vista, do yourself a favor and get the UPPAbaby Mesa car seat — it fits together beautifully with no adapter needed.
Canopy
The Cruz stroller already had an amazing sunshade, but its newer version is even better. The new adjustable canopy has an extension that goes lower and farther and even reveals a peek-a-boo window to keep an eye on your babe. It also has a mesh panel towards the front to allow for more airflow.
Finally, we love that the extension is made with the same fabric as the canopy (the original Cruz had a silver one instead) — so much more sophisticated.
Speaking of… let’s talk colorways. The Cruz V2 offers some seriously gorgeous options. From a dusty rose to a while marl to a green melange, there’s a color for literally every taste.
Handlebar
The premium leather handle on the V2 is delicious and adds such a nice, sophisticated touch.
The telescoping handlebar extends and retracts easily. That’s a major plus if you and your significant other are not close in height.
Basket
UPPAbaby is known for its generous underbaskets. Seriously, you can store a week’s worth of groceries for a family of 4 in the Vista’s basket. Well, good news: the Cruz V2’s storage basket is now more comparable to that of the UPPAbaby Vista stroller, holding up to 30 lbs.
The large opening means you have easy access to all your belongings.
Price
All the new and upgraded features of the Cruz V2 come at a price… literally. The 2019 Cruz retailed for $549-579 the V2 costs between $649 and $679 depending on the colorway you choose. That’s a significant increase and something you’ll definitely have to take into consideration as you make your choice. Which leads us to…
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 vs. Nuna Mixx
Now more than ever, the UPPAbaby Cruz stroller V2 is very similar to the Nuna MIXX — in price, size and features. Both strollers, which retail around the same price ($649), check all the boxes. They are both modular (reversible) strollers that offer a smooth ride, are easy to fold, have a no-rethread harness for easy height adjustments, and a high-end look with luxurious soft goods.
Comparing the two, the MIXX is slightly heavier than the Cruz V2 (26.8 lbs vs. 25.5 lbs), and is slightly bulkier when folded. However, the Mixx features a lie-flat seat that can be used from birth. If you want to use the Cruz V2 with your newborn, you will need to purchase the Infant SnugSeat ($49) for head and neck support.
The biggest drawback of the Nuna MIXX: while the Cruz V2 is compatible with various top-rated car seat brands (not just their Mesa car seat), the MIXX can only be used with Nuna’s infant car seat (the Pipa).
Another consideration: because of the handlebars, the CRUZ V2 is better for taller parents, while MIXX wins as a stroller for shorter caregivers, or those who differ in height a lot.
Full Nuna MIXX review coming soon, stay tuned!
Bottom Line
Thanks to its sturdier wheels, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 acts more like an all-terrain stroller than its previous iteration, while its other recent upgrades — like the larger wheels, larger basket and higher weight — make it more similar to the UPPAbaby Vista, with still a more compact build and a cheaper price point. All-in-all, this UPPAbaby stroller is a rock-solid choice for use with one child (or two, with a stroller board) that will serve you well for years to come.
We think it’s best for those who don’t have to haul it in and out of the trunk and for those looking for a superior ride but with an elevated, luxury look.
