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UPPAbaby Cruz V1 vs Cruz V2 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

UPPAbaby Cruz V2 & UPPAbaby Cruz V1 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, features, and design. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 rather than the UPPAbaby Cruz V1.

Why Do I Recommend The UPPAbaby Cruz V2?

  • The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 comes with larger 7-inch front and 10-inch rear wheels for smoother and more stable movement across uneven sidewalks, whereas the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 uses smaller wheels that can feel less steady on rough surfaces.
  • UPPAbaby Cruz V2 features full all-wheel suspension for improved shock absorption and a more comfortable ride for the child, while the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 has suspension only on the front wheels.
  • It includes a taller 20-inch seat back for better head and upper-body support as toddlers grow, whereas the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 has a shorter seat back.
  • The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 comes with a longer and adjustable leg rest to provide improved leg support for older toddlers during long outings, while the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 has a shorter leg rest.
  • UPPAbaby Cruz V2 features a redesigned canopy with a zip-out sun extension and mesh ventilation to enhance shade and airflow during sunny walks, compared to the UPPAbaby Cruz V1’s smaller canopy with limited ventilation.
  • It includes a no-rethread harness for quick and hassle-free height adjustments as a child grows, whereas the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 uses a traditional rethread harness.
  • The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 has a larger, easier-access under-seat basket to fit more essentials like diaper bags and shopping items, while the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 has a smaller basket with more limited access.
  • UPPAbaby Cruz V2 supports a more compact standing fold to simplify storage in tight trunk spaces or hallways, whereas the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 folds longer and takes up more room when stored.

Maybe the UPPAbaby Cruz V1 can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the UPPAbaby Cruz V2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureUPPAbaby Cruz V2UPPAbaby Cruz V1
Wheel size (front)Larger front wheelsSmaller front wheels
Wheel size (rear)Larger rear wheelsSmaller rear wheels
SuspensionFront and rear all-wheel suspensionFront-wheel suspension only
Seat back heightTaller seat backShorter seat back
Leg rest lengthLonger adjustable leg restShorter leg rest
Footrest depthDeeper footrest for longer legsShallower footrest
Harness adjustmentNo-rethread, slide-adjust harnessTraditional rethread harness
Canopy coverageLarger canopy with zip-out extension panelShorter canopy with smaller extension
Canopy ventilationMesh ventilation / peek windows in extended canopyLess ventilation / fewer mesh panels
Storage basket sizeLarger under-seat basket with higher capacitySmaller under-seat basket
Basket front accessWider front cut-out for easier front accessMore limited front access opening
Folded lengthShorter, more compact length when foldedLonger footprint when folded
Folded heightSlightly lower / flatter fold profileTaller fold profile
Frame / wheelbaseUpdated frame geometry with revised wheelbaseOriginal frame and wheelbase design
Seat ergonomicsDeeper, roomier seat for bigger toddlersMore compact seat for smaller children
Included styling detailsMore refined, updated styling detailsEarlier styling and fabric finish
PriceCheck Cruz V2 PriceCheck Cruz V1 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Reversible toddler seat: Both UPPAbaby Cruz V2 and UPPAbaby Cruz V1 feature a seat that can face either the parent or the world. This lets families choose between bonding-friendly parent-facing rides or outward-facing exploration as children grow more curious.
  • One-hand recline: Both strollers allow parents to adjust the seat recline using one hand. This makes it easy to transition from active seating to a more relaxed nap position without disturbing the child.
  • Adjustable leg rest: Each model includes a leg rest that can be raised for added comfort or lowered as a toddler grows. This helps support developing legs and improves long-ride ergonomics.
  • Five-point harness: Both strollers provide a secure five-point safety harness. This protects children by keeping their shoulders, waist, and hips safely supported.
  • All-wheel locking brakes: Both offer brake systems that lock all wheels for safe stops. This keeps the stroller steady and secure when parked on slopes or uneven ground.
  • Stroller frame compatibility with Mesa infant car seat: Each Cruz works seamlessly with UPPAbaby Mesa infant car seats without additional adapters. This allows for a convenient travel-system setup from birth.
  • Bassinet compatibility: Both models support the UPPAbaby bassinet as an accessory. This gives newborns a fully-flat and safe sleep surface during walks.
  • Multi-position canopy: Each stroller includes a canopy that can be positioned at different heights. It adapts to growing children and varying sun angles throughout the day.
  • Extendable sun visor: Both feature an extendable visor built into the canopy that improves shade and UV protection. It helps keep direct sunlight out of the child’s eyes.
  • Large storage basket: Both Cruz versions are designed with a sizable under-seat basket that accommodates diaper bags, jackets, and shopping items. This enhances practicality for daily outings and errands.
  • Included rain shield: Each model comes with a fitted rain shield for the toddler seat. It protects the child from rain and wind without needing to purchase extra weather gear.
  • Included bug shield: Both include a mesh insect cover, making outdoor strolls more comfortable and safe from mosquitoes or other pests.
  • Standing fold: Both strollers can stand upright when folded. This makes storage easier in small spaces and keeps fabrics off dirty ground surfaces.
  • Adjustable handlebar: Each model includes a telescoping handlebar to fit parents of different heights. This helps maintain good walking posture and reduces wrist strain.
  • One-step fold mechanism: Both use a simple folding method that can be executed quickly with minimal effort. It helps parents collapse the stroller efficiently when loading into a vehicle or entering tight spaces.
  • Foam-filled, puncture-proof tires: Both models use strong, maintenance-free tires that won’t go flat. This provides reliability on daily walks without needing air refills.
  • Suitable from 3+ months (toddler seat): Each stroller’s seat is intended for use starting around 3 months without infant inserts. This lets families transition smoothly from a car seat or bassinet into the stroller seat.

Common Features

FeatureUPPAbaby Cruz V2UPPAbaby Cruz V1
Reversible toddler seatYesYes
One-hand reclineYesYes
Adjustable leg restYesYes
Five-point harnessYesYes
All-wheel locking brakesYesYes
Stroller frame compatibility with Mesa infant car seatYesYes
Bassinet compatibilityYesYes
Multi-position canopyYesYes
Extendable sun visorYesYes
Large storage basketYesYes
Included rain shieldYesYes
Included bug shieldYesYes
Standing foldYesYes
Adjustable handlebarYesYes
One-step fold mechanismYesYes
Foam-filled, puncture-proof tiresYesYes
Suitable from 3+ months (toddler seat)YesYes
Price Check Cruz V2 Price
Check Cruz V1 Price

FAQ

Is the Cruz V2 heavier than the Cruz V1?
Yes, the Cruz V2 is around 4 pounds heavier due to its sturdier frame and upgraded wheels and suspension. The Cruz V1 feels easier to lift for car travel or stairs.

Can both strollers be used from birth?
Yes, but the toddler seat is intended from around 3 months. For newborn use, both Cruz versions require a Mesa infant car seat or UPPAbaby bassinet to provide a proper flat-safe position.

Do both versions accept the UPPAbaby Mesa without adapters?
Yes, both Cruz V2 and Cruz V1 connect directly to the Mesa infant car seat without needing extra adapters, making a seamless travel system.

Is the seat size different between the two models?
Yes, the Cruz V2 has a taller seat back and longer leg rest, allowing taller toddlers to ride comfortably for longer compared to the Cruz V1.

Do both strollers have a reversible toddler seat?
Yes, both seats can face either the parent or forward so you can change your child’s viewing direction based on age or situation.

Is the canopy larger on the Cruz V2?
Yes, the Cruz V2 has an extended canopy with improved ventilation, giving better shade and airflow. The Cruz V1 canopy is shorter with fewer ventilation options.

Do they both fold standing up?
Yes, both models lock into a standing fold position, helping save space and keeping fabrics from touching the ground when stored.

Can both strollers handle uneven sidewalks?
Yes, but the Cruz V2 performs better thanks to its bigger wheels and full suspension. The Cruz V1 is best suited for smooth urban surfaces.

Can the same accessories fit both strollers?
Yes, most accessories like the bassinet, snack tray, parent organizer, and ride-along board are compatible across both Cruz versions.

Do both strollers have a five-point harness?
Yes, both use a secure five-point harness system. The difference is that the V2 harness adjusts without rethreading, while the V1 requires manual strap rethreading.

Do both models offer a good storage basket?
Yes, both strollers feature a spacious basket, but the V2 basket is larger and easier to access from the front.

Are the wheels maintenance-free on both models?
Yes, both use foam-filled wheels that do not require air and will not go flat, making them easy to maintain.

Which stroller is better for smaller cars or tight living spaces?
The Cruz V1 is easier to lift and slightly more compact when stored, making it a convenient option for small vehicles and urban apartments.