UPPAbaby Cruz V3 vs. Vista V3 | Common Questions Answered

Both the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 (arriving Fall 2025) and the Vista V3 (released Fall 2024) are top-tier strollers with similar aesthetics and high-quality design. But depending on your family's needs, one may be a better fit than the other. We'll break down the key differences by answering the most common questions parents ask!

First off, a little about each stroller: 

UPPAbaby Cruz V3

Debuting at the 2025 ABC Kids Expo and launching Fall 2025, the Cruz V3 is UPPAbaby’s updated full-size single stroller—lightweight, durable, and similar in style to the Vista.

While it doesn’t convert into a double, the Cruz V3 can still accommodate a second child with the PiggyBack ride-along board, making it a great fit for families with a 3+ year age gap.

What's new for the Cruz V3:

• Newborn-ready seat with flat recline and carriage mode
• Included infant insert for day-one comfort
• Extendable integrated sunshade
• Magnetic buckle for faster harnessing
• One-hand adjustable footrest
• Higher seat position (23.8" vs. 20.5" on Cruz V2)

These upgrades make the Cruz V3 more newborn-friendly and functional than ever.

UPPAbaby Vista V3

Released in Fall 2024, the Vista V3 improves on the popular Vista V2 with modern upgrades and a refreshed design. Updates include an all-weather comfort seat, sleek extendable handlebar with etched branding, lighter wheels, reflective accents, enhanced suspension, and Greenguard Gold Certified fabrics.

The Vista is known for its versatility—it can be used with two seats, bassinets, or car seats in nearly any combo. Even as a single stroller, it's a favorite thanks to its rugged build, smooth suspension, and massive 30 lb. storage basket.

New for Vista V3: the bassinet is no longer included, but can still be purchased separately for a lie-flat, overnight-safe sleep solution. You can also use the Vista from birth with a compatible infant car seat or the Infant SnugSeat accessory.

What stroller is best to use from birth?

Cruz V3: It features a newborn-ready seat with built-in carriage mode and a fully flat recline. It even includes an infant insert, so your baby can ride comfortably right from day one without needing to purchase anything extra.

The Vista V3 requires additional accessories for newborn use: the bassinet, car seat, or Infant SnugSeat for newborn use. The stroller seat itself is recommended from 3 months and older.

Which stroller grows with your family?

Vista V3: It’s a convertible stroller that turns into a double. Add a RumbleSeat (lower stroller seat), second bassinet, or infant car seat as your family expands.

Cruz V3 is for one child but can be used with a PiggyBack board—a great setup if your kids are spaced 3+ years apart.

Which stroller fits better in smaller trunks or tight spaces?

Cruz V3: It’s lighter, slimmer, and folds more compactly than the Vista. Perfect for apartment living or smaller vehicles.

What are the weight differences?

They're nearly identical in weight now, but the Cruz V3 is still slightly lighter.

• Cruz V3: 26.5 lbs
• Vista V3: 27 lbs
  

What are the size differences?

The Cruz V3 is almost 4 inches narrower, making it easier to navigate tight doorways and aisles.

• Cruz V3: 22" wide
• Vista V3: 25.7" wide
  

Open Dimensions

• Cruz V3: 37.5"L x 22"W x 41.8"H
• Vista V3: 36"L x 25.7"W x 39.5"H

Folded Dimensions (With Seat)

• Cruz V3: 17"L x 22.5"W x 32.4"H 
• Vista V3: 17.3"L x 25.7"W x 33.3"H

What about the wheels and suspension?

Vista V3 has larger wheels (11.5" rear vs. 10" on the Cruz) for better performance on rougher terrain. However, both models now have FlexRide Suspension for a smoother ride on all surfaces.

Is a bassinet included?

No, neither stroller includes the bassinet anymore. 

• Vista previously bundled the bassinet but now sells it separately allowing you to customize your stroller a bit more. This is a nice option for those not buying the stroller at birth who have no need for a bassinet.
• Cruz V3 doesn’t need it—but it’s a nice-to-have for overnight sleep, travel, or nap time at Grandma’s.

Both strollers use the same upgraded Bassinet V3, which features:

• Improved airflow and ventilation
• Dual zippers for easier access
• GREENGUARD Gold Certification
• Breathable foam-free mattress

Which stroller has more configuration options?

Vista V3: It can accommodate:

• Two stroller seats
• Two infant car seats
• Two bassinets
• Or any combination of those
• Add a PiggyBack board for a third rider!

Cruz V3 has fewer options but still allows:

• One toddler seat (now newborn compatible!)
• One bassinet
• One car seat
• Plus PiggyBack board for a second child

Which stroller has more infant car seat options?

Both have the same exact infant car seat options! Any UPPAbaby branded infant car seat will attach to either the Cruz V3 or Vista V3 without the use of adapters! Although, you may need Upper Adapters if you're using the car seat on the top of the Vista V3 to give more room to accommodate the RumbleSeat below.

UPPAbaby also has adapters for the most popular infant car seat brands including: Nuna, Cybex, Clek, Maxi-Cosi, Chicco, and Peg-Perego (sold separately). This allows you to customize the travel system you want! You can even fold the stroller with the adapters attached! 

Which has better everyday features?

That depends on your routine and your child’s age. If you live in a hot climate or take frequent walks, the Vista V3's all-weather seat—with a breathable mesh option—can make a big difference. On the other hand, if you're constantly on the go with older siblings at school drop-offs or sports practices, the Cruz V3’s built-in carriage mode provides a cozy, lie-flat seat perfect for newborn naps on the move—no extra accessories needed.

Shared Everyday Features:

• Reversible toddler seat
• Extendable handlebar
• Self-standing fold
• Large 30 lb. storage basket
• Magnetic buckle and no-rethread harness
• GREENGUARD Gold Certified materials

Unique to Cruz V3:

• Built-in carriage mode for newborns
• One-hand adjustable footrest
• Extendable integrated sunshade

Unique to Vista V3:

• All-weather seat with removable insert
• Better suited for rougher terrain with larger wheels
• Bigger basket and more storage

Final Thoughts: Cruz V3 or Vista V3?

Both strollers offer standout features and premium quality from UPPAbaby, but the right choice depends on your lifestyle and family plans. Whether you're focused on simplicity and compactness or need room to grow, here's a quick breakdown to help you choose the best fit:

Choose the Cruz V3 if you want:

• A lighter, more compact stroller
• Built-in newborn capability
• Lower cost
• Simpler setup for one child (plus a PiggyBack board)

Choose the Vista V3 if you want:

• A stroller that grows with your family
• More versatility and configurations
• Better performance over uneven terrain
• Larger storage and upgraded comfort features

Why should you trust Bambi Baby?

At Bambi Baby, our decades-long commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has established us as a trusted authority in the baby products' industry. With over 40 years of experience, we have developed a deep understanding of what parents require when choosing the perfect gear. Our expert team is dedicated to guiding you through this important decision with personalized recommendations, ensuring that the gear you pick perfectly matches your lifestyle and needs.

Still have questions? 

Bambi Baby experts are ready to connect! If you have any more questions regarding the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 or Vista V3, you can reach us at cs@bambibaby.com or chat with us on our website. We would love to hear from you!

We would also love to see you in store! Feel free to visit any of our store locations in New York, New Jersey, or Miami if you prefer personalized assistance from one of our experts. We're here to ensure you find the perfect gear for your baby with confidence and ease.