When I started searching for the perfect stroller for my little one, I knew I wanted something reliable, stylish, and practical for everyday life. After hours of research, sifting through forums, and chatting with other parents, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 kept popping up as a top contender. Now that I’ve had the chance to use it for months, I’m ready to share my full experience—pros, cons, and all. Whether you’re a first-time parent or adding to your family, this in-depth review will help you decide if the Cruz V2 is the right fit for your lifestyle.
Quick Summary: The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 is a premium, full-size stroller that blends luxury with functionality. It’s lightweight for its class (25.5 pounds), offers a smooth ride with upgraded wheels, and boasts a reversible seat and huge storage basket. Priced around $700, it’s not budget-friendly, but its quality and versatility make it a solid pick for many parents. Want to check it out? You’ll find links to the Amazon sales page at the end of this review. Now, let’s dive into the details!
What is the UPPAbaby Cruz V2?
The UPPAbaby Cruz V2 is a full-size, single stroller designed to grow with your child from infancy to toddlerhood (up to 50 pounds). It’s an updated version of the original Cruz, released in 2020, with enhancements like larger wheels, a roomier seat, and a more compact fold. UPPAbaby, an American brand known for its high-quality baby gear, markets the Cruz V2 as “compact without compromise,” aiming to blend luxury, functionality, and ease of use. It’s not the cheapest option out there—retailing around $700—but it’s packed with features that promise to make parenting smoother.
I’ll break this down into key aspects: design, performance, usability, and value. My goal? To give you a real-world perspective from someone who’s pushed this stroller through city streets, parks, and even a few unexpected muddy trails.
Design and Build Quality: Sleek and Sturdy
Right out of the box, the Cruz V2 feels premium. The carbon frame is lightweight yet solid, and the full-grain leather accents on the handlebar and bumper bar add a touch of elegance. It’s available in nine stylish colors—my personal favorite is the “Gregory” blue mélange with silver accents, which looks sharp without screaming “baby gear.”
The stroller weighs 25.5 pounds, which isn’t featherlight but still manageable for a full-size model. Compared to its bigger sibling, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 (27 pounds), it’s a bit slimmer and easier to maneuver in tight spaces. The all-wheel suspension and polyurethane wheels (no flats, hooray!) promise a smooth ride, and the extendable UPF 50+ canopy is a lifesaver on sunny days. Plus, the peek-a-boo window with mesh ventilation lets me check on my little one without stopping.
One small gripe? The silver frame scratches more easily than I’d like, especially if you’re tossing it in and out of a car trunk often. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s worth noting if you’re particular about aesthetics.
Performance: How It Handles Real Life
I’ve tested the Cruz V2 on a variety of terrains—smooth sidewalks, grassy parks, gravel paths, and even some uneven woodland trails. Here’s the verdict: it’s not an off-road beast, but it handles most everyday surfaces with ease. The larger rear wheels (8.25 inches compared to the original Cruz’s 7 inches) and dual-action suspension make a noticeable difference in smoothing out bumps. My toddler barely notices when we roll over curbs or tree roots, which is a win for nap time.
Pushing it feels effortless, even one-handed, thanks to the adjustable telescoping handlebar. At 5’4”, I keep it at a mid-setting, but my 6’1” husband extends it fully and finds it just as comfortable. Maneuverability is solid, though it’s not as nimble as lighter travel strollers in tight spots like crowded stores or narrow doorways. Backing up or pivoting can take a little extra effort, but it’s not a major hassle.
One thing I love? The brake system. It’s a simple press-down pedal—red to lock, green to release—and it’s flip-flop friendly, so no scuffed shoes here. It’s a small detail, but it makes a difference when you’re juggling a kid and a coffee.
Usability: Features That Make Parenting Easier
The Cruz V2 shines when it comes to usability. The reversible seat is a standout feature—my baby can face me for bonding time or face forward to explore the world. The one-hand recline adjusts to multiple positions, perfect for on-the-go naps or upright sightseeing. The no-rethread harness is a game-changer, too. Adjusting it as my child grows is as simple as sliding the straps—no wrestling with threads or clips.
The storage basket? Massive. It holds up to 30 pounds and has a wide opening, so I can stash a diaper bag, snacks, and even a few grocery bags without breaking a sweat. I’ve fit an overpacked backpack and a jacket in there with room to spare—ideal for long outings.
Folding the stroller is straightforward but requires two hands. You press the triggers on the handlebar, push down, and it collapses into a flat, self-standing package (16.5” H x 22.9” W x 33” L). It’s compact enough to fit in my sedan’s trunk, though the 25.5-pound weight means lifting it isn’t effortless. Unfolding is a breeze—just unlatch and pull up. If you’re used to one-handed folds on lighter strollers, this might feel like a step back, but the trade-off is a sturdier build.
For newborns, the Cruz V2 pairs seamlessly with the UPPAbaby Mesa infant car seat (no adapters needed) or other brands like Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, or Cybex with adapters. I used it with a Cybex Cloud Z, and while the adapters were easy to snap on, there’s a slight wobble compared to the carrycot. Speaking of which, the optional bassinet (sold separately for about $200) is ventilated and overnight-sleep-approved—a nice perk for travel.
Pros of the UPPAbaby Cruz V2
- Smooth Ride: The suspension and larger wheels handle most terrains well, keeping my kid comfy.
- Spacious Storage: The 30-pound-capacity basket is a lifesaver for busy days.
- Versatile Seat: Reversible, reclining, and adjustable—no need for a new stroller as your child grows.
- Premium Feel: Leather accents and durable materials make it look and feel high-end.
- Easy Adjustments: One-hand recline and no-rethread harness simplify life on the go.
- Travel System Ready: Compatible with multiple car seats for newborn convenience.
Cons of the UPPAbaby Cruz V2
- Weight: At 25.5 pounds, it’s not the lightest option for frequent lifting or stairs.
- Pricey: $700 is steep, especially since the bassinet and some accessories cost extra.
- Fold Requires Two Hands: Not ideal if you’re holding a baby or bags.
- Ventilation Could Improve: The seat can get warm on hot days, even with mesh panels.
- Maneuverability Limits: Tight turns or backing up can feel clunky compared to lighter strollers.
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How It Compares to Alternatives
Wondering how the Cruz V2 stacks up? I looked at a few competitors:
- Nuna Triv ($500-$650): Lighter (8.8 kg) and slimmer, with a smaller fold, but the basket isn’t as roomy, and the max weight is 22 kg versus the Cruz’s 50 pounds.
- Silver Cross Wayfarer 2020 ($694): A classic look and lighter at 10 kg, but it struggles on rough terrain and lacks the Cruz’s modern flair.
- UPPAbaby Vista V2 ($970): Converts to a double and includes a bassinet, but it’s heavier and bulkier—better for growing families than solo riders.
For me, the Cruz V2 strikes a sweet spot between luxury and practicality, especially if you’re sticking to one kid or have an older sibling who can hop on the optional PiggyBack board.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $700, the Cruz V2 isn’t cheap. Add in the bassinet or accessories like the snack tray ($50) or PiggyBack board ($135), and you’re looking at a bigger investment. But here’s my take: it’s built to last. The quality materials and thoughtful design mean it can handle years of use—or even resale when you’re done. Compared to luxury strollers pushing $1,000+ that don’t offer much more, it feels like a solid value.
If you’re in a rural area needing serious off-road capability or planning a second kid soon, the Vista V2 might be a better pick. But for city or suburban life with one child, the Cruz V2 delivers without overwhelming bulk.
Final Thoughts: My Everyday Experience
After months of use, the Cruz V2 has become my go-to. It’s not perfect—lifting it into the car after a long day can be a workout, and I wish the seat had better airflow in summer. But the smooth push, huge basket, and versatility outweigh those drawbacks. It’s a stroller that adapts to my routine, whether I’m running errands, strolling the park, or traveling with the family. My toddler loves it, and I love how it simplifies our outings.
If you’re on the fence, think about your priorities. Need lightweight portability? Look elsewhere. Want a durable, feature-packed stroller that looks good and grows with your kid? The Cruz V2 might just be your match.
Ready to Try the UPPAbaby Cruz V2?
Curious to see it in action for yourself? You can check out the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 on Amazon, where it’s easy to compare colors, read more parent reviews, and snag it with fast shipping. Click the links below to explore the options—it’s an investment, sure, but one that’s made my parenting journey smoother, and I bet it could do the same for you. Take a peek and decide if it’s time to roll in style!