The Cruz V2 and the Donkey 5 occupy technically adjacent stroller categories, but they're really for different families. The Cruz V2 is UPPAbaby's city stroller — slimmer than the Vista, easier to fold, around $879. The Donkey 5 is Bugaboo's extendable chassis that starts as a mono stroller and expands side-by-side to a genuine twin — at $1,599 base, rising to $2,200+ once configured for two children. Parents on r/Mommit who've debated both usually frame it as: do you need a second seat now, or might you need it later?
UPPAbaby Cruz V2
The Cruz V2 wins for single-child families who want a nimble, city-friendly stroller without overpaying for features they won't use. If there's any chance of twins or a second child within two to three years, the Donkey 5's ability to expand side-by-side makes it a more economical long-term buy — despite the higher upfront cost.
Specs Comparison
| Spec | UPPAbaby Cruz V2 | Bugaboo Donkey 5 |
|---|---|---|
| MSRP (base) | $879 | $1,599 |
| Weight | 24.2 lb | 28.7 lb (mono) |
| Width (mono) | 23.2" | 24" |
| Width (duo) | N/A | 29.9" |
| Max Child Weight | 50 lb | 37.5 lb per seat |
| Converts to Double | No | Yes (side-by-side) |
| Folded Size | 29.9" x 22.3" x 17.7" | 37.8" x 24" x 19.7" |
Size and City Usability
The Cruz V2 is one of the easiest full-featured strollers to maneuver in tight urban environments. At 23.2" wide, it slips through restaurant doors and grocery store aisles without the mental calculus required by wider frames. It's also notably lighter than the Vista V2 at 24.2 lb, and the fold is more compact. BabyGearLab rated the Cruz highly for urban maneuverability in their 2025 full-size stroller roundup.
The Donkey 5 in mono configuration is 24" wide — similar to the Cruz. Once expanded to duo mode it stretches to a side-by-side 29.9", which is wider than most standard double strollers. That width works fine on sidewalks but can be difficult in stores and tight spaces. Bugaboo's chassis engineering keeps the push quality excellent for what is a very wide stroller.
Expandability
This is where the Donkey 5 has a real claim. The chassis expands side-by-side with a Duo Extension Set ($399), accommodating two children each up to 37.5 lb. Unlike tandem doubles, side-by-side configurations give both children equal views and independent recline positions. Bugaboo also makes a bassinet that mounts on either side, so you can do twin-bassinets or bassinet-plus-toddler-seat.
The Cruz V2 doesn't expand to a double. If a second child arrives, you're looking at replacing the stroller. UPPAbaby makes a Piggyback Ride-Along Board for the Cruz, but it's a platform board, not a seat. For growing families, this is the Cruz's biggest limitation.
Fold and Storage
The Cruz V2 folds more compactly and quickly than the Donkey 5. At 29.9" x 22.3" x 17.7" folded, it's manageable in a midsize sedan trunk. The fold mechanism is two-step and doesn't require removing the seat. The underseat basket holds about 25 lb — smaller than the Vista V2 but still workable for a diaper bag.
The Donkey 5 is difficult to fold. The mono-to-duo expansion involves physical chassis attachment that can't be done quickly mid-walk. Even in mono mode, the fold is bulkier than the Cruz. For frequent transit users, the Donkey 5 requires planning the stroller situation before leaving home.
Price Reality
The Cruz V2 at $879 with a toddler seat included is a strong value for what you get. Bassinet ($299) and car seat adapters ($10–$20) are extra, but the core configuration is complete out of the box.
The Donkey 5's pricing escalates quickly. The mono base is $1,599. Add the duo extension, a second seat, and a bassinet and you're approaching $2,500. That's a significant investment — but if you're buying both a single and a double stroller separately, the Donkey 5 can be cheaper than buying two separate premium strollers.
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Strengths
- Lighter and narrower — better for city use
- More compact fold fits standard sedan trunks
- Cheaper at $879 vs $1,599+
- Compatible with MESA car seat with included adapter
Bugaboo Donkey 5 Strengths
- Expands to a true side-by-side double — major long-term value
- Both seats get equal forward-facing views
- Premium suspension holds up in duo mode
- Works for twins or closely spaced siblings
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Weaknesses
- No double configuration option
- Smaller basket than Vista V2
- Piggyback board only — no second seat option
Bugaboo Donkey 5 Weaknesses
- Very expensive — $2,000+ fully configured for two
- 29.9" wide in duo mode — tight in stores
- Fold is complex and not quick
- Duo Extension Kit is $399 extra
Best For
- a: Urban single-child families who want a refined, city-friendly stroller without double-stroller complexity
- b: Families expecting twins or a second child within two to three years who want one chassis that does both
FAQ
Can you use a bassinet on the Cruz V2?
Yes — UPPAbaby sells the Cruz-compatible bassinet for $299. It replaces the toddler seat and is suitable from birth. It's not included in the base price.
How difficult is the Donkey 5 expansion to duo mode?
The expansion requires attaching the Duo Extension chassis piece, which takes about 5 minutes once you've done it a few times. It's not something you'd do mid-walk — plan it at home before heading out.
Is the Cruz V2 compatible with MESA infant car seats?
Yes — UPPAbaby includes car seat adapters with the Cruz V2 that are compatible with the MESA and MESA Max infant car seats. Third-party car seat adapters are also available.