UPPAbaby Cruz V3 vs. Nuna TRIV Next Comparison

UPPAbaby Cruz V3 vs. Nuna TRIV Next Comparison

 

Choosing a stroller can be an overwhelming decision! Most parents agree that they want a stroller that is easy - easy to fold, easy to push, easy to pop in and out of the car. So which ones do it all? Two stand out single strollers go head to head in this comparison: the Nuna TRIV Next and UPPAbaby Cruz V3.

Redesigned in late 2022, the Nuna TRIV Next weighs less than 19 pounds, but has all the full-size features everyone wantslike a reversible seat, simple recline, adjustable footrest, as well as a one-handed fold! 

 

Given an all-terrain upgrade in 2020 and another huge update in 2025, the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 stroller is versatile, lighter weight, and packed with helpful features such as newborn ready, a larger storage basket, and high seat back.

Both the TRIV Next and Cruz V3 offer similar design featureslike a reversible seat, bassinet and car seat capabilities, durable tires, and lots of storage space, but differ in size, fold, and materials used.

Let's compare the Nuna TRIV Next and UPPAbaby Cruz V3 in more detail.


Nuna TRIV Next Stroller

The Nuna TRIV Next came out in late 2022 as an upgrade to the popular Nuna TRIV. The TRIV Next is in a unique class of its own - it's both a great lighter weight travel option but also a full-size feature stroller! It's a perfect solution for parents who want one stroller that does it all, instead of having both a travel stroller and a full size stroller.

 

Updates to the seat include an updated magnetic harness buckle and zip-off sun canopy. A modernized stroller frame has larger, foam-filled rubber tires with a wider wheel base and built-in foot rest for tall toddlers. Parents will enjoy updated comfort features like an ergonomic rounded handlebar and a sandal-friendly one-touch brake mechanism.

Learn more about the TRIV Next here:

UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Stroller

Recently updated in Fall 2025, the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 is UPPAbaby's full-featured single stroller geared towards parents who want it all, but in a more compact size than the convertible UPPAbaby Vista V3 stroller.

Learn more about the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 from when it was first launched in this video:

Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Price

Both strollers are beautifully crafted with high quality materials, and the cost difference is negligible.  

The Nuna TRIV Next comes with the chassis, toddler seat, and foldable ring car seat adapter, that attaches any of the Nuna Pipa infant car seat models to the stroller to create an easy travel system. The UPPAbaby Cruz V3 includes the chassis, toddler seat, infant insert, bug shield, and rain shield. It does not need a car seat adapter to use with UPPAbaby infant car seats. 

Stroller Price

Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Weight and Specifications

Though both strollers are considered lightweight for full size strollers, the Nuna TRIV Next weighs about 8 pounds less than the UPPAbaby Cruz V3. The TRIV Next fits into the "mid-size category" - it's a great option for those parents who want a full feature stroller with great wheels in a lighter package. The Cruz V3 is considered a full-size stroller, yet is still lighter weight than most at 26.5 pounds.

Although there is a bigger difference in overall weight, both strollers are very similar in terms of dimensions. The TRIV Next does fold slightly more compact though. 

Stroller Weight

Weight Capacity

Dimensions

Folded Dimensions

 

Seat Back Height

 

Seat to Canopy Height

 

Seat Depth

 

  • Nuna TRIV Next: 10" - not including leg rest - 16" with leg rest
  • UPPAbaby Cruz V3: 7" with infant insert; 7.5" with no insert; 15" including leg rest and insert; 15.5" including leg rest and no insert

     

    Wheel Size

    Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Features

    Both strollers are designed to be comfortable, easy-to-use single strollers with thoughtful features that make everyday outings smoother. Shared highlights include spacious, easy-access storage baskets, telescoping handlebars to accommodate parents of different heights, and reversible toddler seats that can be removed to attach an infant car seat or bassinet for newborn use.

    One key difference is that the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 is newborn-ready right out of the box, thanks to its included infant insert and fully lie-flat recline. This allows parents to use the stroller from day one without needing additional accessories, while still offering flexibility as your child grows.

    We'll explore the features of each stroller component in this section to see what differentiates the Nuna TRIV Next from the UPPAbaby Cruz V3.

    Stroller Seat Features

    Since the toddler seat is what your child will be sitting in the most while you're using your stroller (for a few years!), it is important to pick a stroller with a seat that is adjustable as your child grows and supports them well at every stage of development.

    Seat features shared by TRIV Next and Cruz V3:

    • Reversible to face forward or face parent
    • Multiple recline positions adjustable with one hand
    • Adjustable calf support angles and integrated footrest
    • Included, swing-out bumper bar
    • No-rethread harness
    • Canopy with UPF 50+ that has a zip out canopy extension 
    • Ventilated canopy panels

    Seat features unique to the TRIV Next:

    • Spring suspension technology under the seat for smooth rides
    • Magnetic harness buckle
    • Zip off canopy
    • All-season seat keeps baby cozy in winter and easily converts to mesh in summer
    • Removable insert that's lightweight and lightly textured with Merino wool and TENCEL lyocell
    • Easy access zippered storage pocket on back of seat 
    • Luxe leatherette bumper bar

    Seat features unique to the Cruz V3:

    • From birth ready with the included infant insert, lie flat seat, and carriage mode
    • Adjustable-height canopy
    • Real leather bumper bar

    Stroller Frame Features

     

    Nuna and UPPAbaby have built their strollers with the highest quality materials and engineering. When looking at a strollers, you definitely need to check out the stroller frame itself, as this is the foundation for all the rides ahead. The best ones are both sturdy and lightweight, and have suspension to make pushing a breeze and to lessen the bumps that your child will feel.

    Frame features shared by TRIV Next and Cruz V3:

    • Lightweight aluminum frame
    • One-handed telescoping handlebar to multiple height settings
    • Four-wheel suspension
    • Stands upright when folded
    • Easy to access storage basket

    Frame features unique to the TRIV Next:

    • One-touch foot brake for easy stop and go
    • Vegan leather handlebar
    • Quick one-handed fold keeps your other hand free
    • Folds no matter which way the seat is facing
    • Ring adapter folds with the stroller - no need to remove with the car seat

    Frame features unique to the Cruz V3:

    • Oversized storage basket holds up to 30 pounds
    • Organizing pockets built into basket for drinks, weather covers, and more
    • Flexible bar at back of storage basket makes space for larger items
    • Separate, color-coded foot brakes for locking (red) and unlocking (green)
    • Genuine perforated leather handlebar

    Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Bassinets

    Packaged and sold separately, both the Nuna TRIV Next Bassinet and the UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 (which fits the Vista, Cruz, and Ridge strollers) are overnight sleep approved. Ideal for parents who travel often or live in walkable cities, these bassinets add a lay flat space that gives a newborn proper positioning for their developing head and neck.

    The Nuna TRIV Next bassinet is newly redesigned, and comes with a bassinet stand for use in your bedroom or home! 

    The updated UPPAbaby Bassinet V3 features:

    • Cross ventilation panels for better airflow

    • Dual zipper on the boot for easier access

    • Enhanced vented base

    • Foam-free air mesh mattress for breathability

    • GREENGUARD Gold Certification

    While not required, a bassinet provides a fully flat, well-ventilated sleep space, and can double as a portable crib—especially when paired with the UPPAbaby Bassinet Stand, which later converts into a laundry hamper.

    How to fold the Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3

    Thanks to their compact frames, both the TRIV Next and Cruz V3 fold to sizes small enough to fit in the trunk of most vehicles or store out-of-site in a coat closet or entry way. Both strollers are easy to fold and stand upright once folded. 

    While the Nuna TRIV Next can be folded with the toddler seat facing either direction, the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 can only fold with the toddler seat facing forward. Additionally, the TRIV Next can be folded with just one hand, whereas two hands are required to fold the Cruz V3 frame. 

    How to fold the Nuna TRIV Next 

    To fold the Nuna TRIV Next with the toddler seat attached, you'll need to fold the seat in half, then fold up the frame. First, lower the handlebar to the lowest position. Then raise the seat recline up to a 90-degree angle by using the lever on the back of the seat. Using that same lever, pull it up and push the button on top of it, and the seat will fold down over itself. Next, simply grab the strap on the back of the seat and pull up! The TRIV Next can stand when folded, but you may need to find its sweet spot on the wheels for that to happen.

    It's easy to carry the TRIV Next once it's folded due to the leatherette padded carry strap.

    To fold the TRIV Next with the included infant car seat adapter attached, you simply lower the handlebar to the lowest position and then pull up on the strap located in the center of the adapter. That's it! The adapter folds in half! 

    To unfold, just grab a hold of the handlebars, lift it up, flip up the seat and you're ready to stroll!

    How to fold the UPPAbaby Cruz V3

    Folding the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 is super easy! Watch this short video demonstrating how to fold it:

    Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Fabrics and Materials

    The TRIV seat insert is made with a merino wool and Tencel blend, natural fabrics that are sustainable and help to keep your child stay warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Merino wool also has bonus properties, like being soft, hypoallergenic and environmentally-friendly. The TRIV Next has soft fabrics and offers plenty of ventilation to keep kids comfortable in warm weather. The stroller has a luxe leatherette handlebar and bumper bar.

    UPPAbaby uses durable, soft, and easy-to-clean polyester blend fabrics for the Cruz V3 stroller seat, canopy, and basket, plus genuine, full-grain leather handlebars and bumper bars with an elegant perforated pattern. 

    Fashion selections are updated regularly for both the TRIV Next and Cruz V3.

    Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Car Seat Compatibility

    Both the TRIV Next and Cruz V3 frames can accommodate an infant car seat to create your own travel system.

    Nuna offers different PIPA models that are compatible with the TRIV Next with the included adapter. The Nuna PIPA urbn is sold with the TRIV Next as a travel system, while the other models are sold separately. An adapter always has to be used with the TRIV Next to connect their infant car seats.

    UPPAbaby offers two infant car seat models that are compatible with the Cruz V3 without purchase of adapters. In addition to the Mesa and Aria car seats, there are several other popular car seat models from other brands that fit the Cruz V3 with purchase of adapters.

    Car seats compatible with UPPAbaby Cruz V3 

     

    Car Seats Compatible with Nuna TRIV Next

     

    With the included car seat adapter, turn your Nuna TRIV Next stroller frame into a travel system with purchase of one of the Nuna PIPA infant car seats. No other brand car seat will work with the TRIV Next.

      Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 Pros and Cons

      So which stroller is better: the Nuna TRIV Next or the UPPAbaby Cruz V3? Let's highlight the benefits and drawbacks of each.

      Nuna TRIV Next

      If you're looking for a stroller that's super easy to use and fold, a breeze to push, and lightweight, yet also full of features, the Nuna TRIV Next may be your answer! 

      Benefits

      • One-handed fold with the stroller seat rear or forward facing
      • One-handed fold with the included car seat adapter attached (the adapter folds in half!)
      • Smaller fold since the seat folds in half
      • All-season seat keeps baby cozy in the winter and easily converts to a mesh seat in the warmer months   
      • Removable, washable seat insert 
      • Lighter weight at under 19 pounds 

      Drawbacks

      • Not as many accessories offered, such as no snack tray or ride along board
      • Smaller selection of colors
      • Compatible with only Nuna car seats

      Mother Carrying A Nuna TRIV Next Stroller Down Some Stairs

        UPPAbaby Cruz V3

        The Cruz V3 is UPPAbaby's best-selling full-featured single stroller, ideal for parents that value convenience and quality without breaking the bank.

        Benefits

        • Newborn ready with included newborn insert and lie-flat seat
        • Higher storage basket capacity of 30 pounds
        • Compatible with additional car seat brands including UPPAbaby, Chicco, Nuna, Clek, Maxi-Cosi, and Peg Perego
        • More accessories available for purchase including: snack tray, parent cupholder, PiggyBack board, cozy ganoosh, and more

        Drawbacks

        • Only folds with seat facing forward
        • Two-handed fold 
        • Larger when folded
        • Harder to remove seat fabric to wash versus the seat insert on the TRIV Next
        • 8 pounds heavier

        Questions?

        Strolleria is an authorized retailer of UPPAbaby and Nuna products, dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents. If you have more questions about the Nuna TRIV Next vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3 debate, feel free to email us at cs@strolleria.com.