UPPAbaby Kona: Mid-Size Stroller | New Product Review and Comparison

Whenever UPPAbaby launches a brand-new stroller, parents pay attention. Unlike a simple refresh or color update, the Kona is an entirely new addition to the lineup, introducing a stroller category UPPAbaby has never offered before.

Here's what makes the Kona so exciting:

✓ New model: Kona
✓ New category: Mid-size stroller
✓ New design: Compact stroller that's newborn-ready from day one
✓ Classic UPPAbaby details: Premium materials, thoughtful features, and an easy everyday ride

Where Does the UPPAbaby Kona Fit?

The Kona fills an important gap between UPPAbaby's travel strollers and full-size models. It gives parents a stroller that's lighter and easier to manage than a traditional full-size stroller while offering more comfort, storage, and everyday features than most travel strollers.

Designed with city living in mind, the Kona is easy to maneuver through busy sidewalks, stores, and restaurants. But it's just as practical for suburban families looking for a stroller that's easier to lift into the trunk, carry up stairs, or use for everyday outings.

This style of stroller, often called a mid-size stroller, has become one of the fastest-growing categories in premium baby gear. Parents love having one stroller that feels more substantial than a travel stroller without the extra bulk of a full-size model. Brands across the industry have introduced their own versions, and the Kona is UPPAbaby's answer.

As you'd expect from UPPAbaby, the Kona pairs a lightweight design with premium fabrics, thoughtful engineering, and the everyday conveniences parents have come to expect from the brand.

Before we get into all of its features and compare it to other popular strollers, let's start with the basics.

What is a Mid-Size Stroller?

A mid-size stroller fills the space between a lightweight travel stroller and a full-size stroller. It's designed for parents who want something easier to lift, store, and maneuver than a traditional full-size stroller without giving up the comfort and convenience of an everyday stroller.

Travel strollers are great for vacations and quick outings because they're lightweight (usually 12-18 pounds) and compact. But to keep their size down, they often have smaller wheels, less storage, and fewer comfort features.

Full-size strollers offer a smoother ride, roomier seats, larger storage baskets, and better performance on a variety of terrain. The downside? They're typically heavier (usually 25+ pounds) and take up much more space in your trunk or garage.

That's where a mid-size stroller shines. It combines the best of both worlds by offering a lighter, more compact design with many of the features parents love in a full-size stroller. For many families, it can be the only stroller they need from infancy through the toddler years.

Why Choose a Mid-Size Stroller?

A mid-size stroller is a great choice if you want one stroller that can grow with your family and handle everyday life.

• Lightweight enough to lift into the car / usually about 20-25 pounds
• Compact fold that takes up less storage space
• Comfortable enough for daily walks and naps
• Larger wheels for smoother rides on sidewalks, grass, and gravel
• Roomy storage basket for diaper bags and shopping
• Compatible with infant car seats for a complete travel system
• A practical alternative to owning both a travel stroller and a full-size stroller

Meet the UPPAbaby Kona

The UPPAbaby Kona is a lightweight mid-size stroller designed for families who want the features of a full-size stroller in a more compact package. Weighing just 22 pounds, it's easy to lift into the trunk, carry up stairs, and navigate through crowded sidewalks, narrow store aisles, and elevators without feeling oversized.

Unlike many compact strollers, the Kona doesn't ask parents to sacrifice comfort or convenience. It's ready to use from birth, features a reversible seat that can face you or the world, folds with one hand in either seat direction, and offers the smooth ride and premium finishes UPPAbaby is known for.

Whether you're exploring the city, running errands, or taking a neighborhood walk, the Kona is designed to keep up with everyday family life.

UPPAbaby Kona Features Parents Will Love

The UPPAbaby Kona is packed with thoughtful details that make everyday outings easier. From its compact fold to its roomy storage basket, these are the features we think parents will appreciate most and why they make a difference in daily life:

Is the UPPAbaby Kona Good for Newborns?

Yes! The UPPAbaby Kona is designed to be used from birth, giving parents multiple ways to stroll with a newborn depending on their family's needs.

Right out of the box, the Kona includes a reversible toddler seat that reclines to a near-flat position and can be used in parent-facing mode, so you can keep your baby close while they ride comfortably. An integrated newborn apron, tucked neatly into the footrest, creates a cozy, carriage-style enclosure for added warmth and comfort during those first months.

If you prefer using an infant car seat, the Kona also works as a travel system. It accepts UPPAbaby infant car seats without adapters, making it easy to move your baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing their nap. Parents using Nuna, Cybex, or Maxi-Cosi infant car seats can also create a travel system with the appropriate adapters.

For longer walks or families who love a traditional pram, the Kona is compatible with the UPPAbaby Bassinet (sold separately). The bassinet features a breathable mattress, mesh ventilation panels, and a UPF 50+ canopy, creating a comfortable space for newborn strolls. When paired with the UPPAbaby Bassinet Stand, it can even double as a safe overnight sleep solution when used according to UPPAbaby's guidelines.

To top it off, the Kona is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning it has been tested for low chemical emissions to help create a healthier environment for your baby.

Why the Kona Works Well for Newborns

✓ Ready to use from birth with a near-flat reclining seat

✓ Parent-facing seat lets you keep your newborn close

✓ Integrated newborn apron creates a cozy, carriage-style environment

✓ Compatible with the UPPAbaby Bassinet for a traditional pram experience

✓ Travel system ready with UPPAbaby, Nuna, Cybex, and Maxi-Cosi infant car seats

✓ One-hand fold with the seat attached makes everyday outings easier

✓ GREENGUARD Gold Certified for low chemical emissions

Is the UPPAbaby a Good Travel System?

Yes! The UPPAbaby Kona is travel system compatible from day one, making it easy to move your baby from the car to the stroller without waking them.

If you choose an UPPAbaby infant car seat, it clicks directly onto the Kona stroller frame with no adapters required. That means fewer accessories to buy, a quicker setup, and seamless transitions between the car and stroller.

Already have an infant car seat from another brand? The Kona is also compatible with select Nuna, Cybex, Maxi-Cosi, and Romer infant car seats using separately sold adapters. Even better, the stroller can be folded with the adapters attached, so you won't have to remove them every time you pack up.

Whether you're starting with an UPPAbaby infant car seat or another compatible model, the Kona gives parents the flexibility to create a travel system that fits their family's needs.

What Infant Car Seats Are Compatible with the UPPAbaby Kona?

The Kona offers two ways to build a travel system.

No Adapters Required:

UPPAbaby infant car seats attach directly to the Kona stroller frame for the quickest and easiest travel system setup:

• UPPAbaby Aria V2
• UPPAbaby MESA V3

Adapters Required:

With the appropriate adapters, the Kona is also compatible with select:

• Nuna infant car seats
• Cybex infant car seats
• Maxi-Cosi infant car seats
• Romer infant car seats
  

UPPAbaby Kona vs. UPPAbaby Cruz V3

The Kona joins a growing category of premium mid-size strollers, but one comparison parents will naturally make is with UPPAbaby's own Cruz V3. While both are designed for everyday use and share UPPAbaby's signature quality, they serve slightly different families.

Let's take a closer look at how they compare.

At first glance, the Kona and Cruz V3 have a lot in common. Both are premium single strollers that can be used from birth, feature reversible seats, create travel systems with infant car seats, and offer smooth rides for everyday adventures.

The biggest difference comes down to size. The Kona is a true mid-size stroller, prioritizing a lighter weight and smaller fold for families who are frequently lifting, storing, or transporting their stroller. The Cruz V3 remains a full-size stroller, offering larger wheels, more robust suspension, and a roomier frame for parents who want maximum comfort and performance.

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want...

• A lightweight stroller that's easier to lift and carry
• A more compact fold for smaller trunks and storage spaces
• A stroller that's easier to maneuver through stores, elevators, and city sidewalks
• A premium everyday stroller without the bulk of a full-size model
• A travel system that works with UPPAbaby infant car seats without adapters

Choose the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 if you want...

• A traditional full-size stroller with maximum comfort
• Larger wheels and enhanced suspension for more challenging terrain
• A roomier seat and frame for longer outings
• A stroller that's ideal for neighborhood walks, parks, and all-day adventures
• UPPAbaby's most feature-rich single stroller experience

Quick Specs

UPPAbaby Kona

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 22 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 10.3" L × 20.7" W × 27.1" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 37.4" L × 20.6" W × 41.25" H
• Basket capacity: 30 lbs

UPPAbaby Cruz V3

• Stroller type: Full-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 26.5 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 17" L × 22.5" W × 32.4" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 37.5" L × 22.5" W × 41.8" H
• Basket capacity: 30 lbs

Bottom Line

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if your priority is a stroller that's lighter, more compact, and easier to transport without sacrificing premium features. If you regularly navigate stairs, smaller vehicles, busy sidewalks, or tight storage spaces, the Kona is likely the better fit.

Choose the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 if you want the smoothest ride, larger wheels, and the feel of a traditional full-size stroller for everyday walks and longer outings.

UPPAbaby Kona vs. Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus

The UPPAbaby Kona and Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus are two of the strongest premium mid-size strollers on the market. Both are designed to offer the comfort and features of a full-size stroller in a lighter, more compact package, making them excellent choices for everyday walks, errands, and city living.

Each stroller features a reversible seat, smooth suspension, premium materials, and a tall seat back that comfortably accommodates growing toddlers. In fact, both offer some of the tallest seat backs in the mid-size stroller category, making them great long-term options. The Dragonfly Plus does have a slight edge in toddler comfort thanks to its longer, more supportive footrest and fully upright seating position.

The biggest difference comes down to newborn use. The Kona is ready to use from birth with its near-flat reclining seat and integrated newborn apron, while the Dragonfly Plus requires either an infant car seat or the optional bassinet during the newborn stage. If you love a traditional pram-style stroller, however, the Dragonfly Plus has a unique advantage: its bassinet folds with the stroller, making storage and transport much easier than most bassinet-compatible strollers.

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want...

• A stroller that's ready from birth without purchasing a bassinet
• An integrated newborn apron for a cozy carriage-style setup
• Direct attachment for UPPAbaby infant car seats without adapters
• A more compact footprint for navigating tight spaces
• A larger 30-pound storage basket

Choose the Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus if you want...

• A traditional bassinet option that folds with the stroller
• A fully upright seat and longer footrest for growing toddlers
• Included infant car seat adapters for compatibility with multiple brands
• Bugaboo's patented one-hand self-standing fold
• An expandable rear storage pocket for extra organization

Quick Specs

UPPAbaby Kona

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 22 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 10.3" L × 20.7" W × 27.1" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 37.4" L × 20.6" W × 41.25" H
• Basket capacity: 30 lbs

Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 21.8 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 14.2" L × 20.5" W × 35.4" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 42" L × 20.5" W × 41" H
• Basket capacity: 22 lbs (+ 5.5 lb expandable rear pocket)

Bottom Line

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want a stroller that's newborn-ready right out of the box, offers a more compact fold, and seamlessly pairs with UPPAbaby infant car seats.

Choose the Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus if you prefer a bassinet-first newborn setup, appreciate the flexibility of included car seat adapters, and want premium features like a fully upright seat, foldable bassinet, and expandable storage.

UPPAbaby Kona vs. Silver Cross Breez

The UPPAbaby Kona and Silver Cross Breez are two of the newest premium mid-size strollers, and they share a very similar goal: giving parents the comfort and features of a full-size stroller in a lighter, more compact design.

Both strollers are newborn-ready, feature reversible seats, smooth suspension, adjustable handlebars, and premium finishes. They're designed to grow with your child while remaining easy to maneuver through everyday life, whether you're navigating city streets, shopping, or neighborhood walks.

Where they begin to differ is in the details. The Kona is lighter, folds down smaller, and offers a larger 30-pound storage basket, making it especially appealing for families who frequently load the stroller into the car or need to maximize storage space. The Breez, on the other hand, offers a few unique premium touches, including a 55-pound weight limit, a two-position seat height system, and a folding bassinet for families who prefer a traditional pram setup.

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want...

• A lighter stroller that's easier to lift and transport
• A more compact fold for smaller trunks and storage spaces
• A larger 30-pound storage basket
• Direct attachment for UPPAbaby infant car seats without adapters
• A taller seat back for growing toddlers

Choose the Silver Cross Breez if you want...

• A higher 55-pound seat weight limit
• A fully flat carriage mode with a compatible folding bassinet
• A two-height seat position that raises baby closer in parent-facing mode
• Premium features like a magnetic buckle and adjustable footrest
• A slightly shorter stroller footprint for navigating tight spaces

Quick Specs

UPPAbaby Kona

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 22 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 10.3" L × 20.7" W × 27.1" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 37.4" L × 20.6" W × 41.25" H
• Basket capacity: 30 lbs

Silver Cross Breez

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 55 lbs
• Weight: 22.6 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 12.99″ L x 22.05″ W x 25.98″ H
• Unfolded dimensions: 27.96″ L x 22.05″ W x 40.94″ H
• Basket capacity: 22 lbs

Bottom Line

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if your priorities are a compact fold, generous storage, and the convenience of an adapter-free UPPAbaby travel system. It's an excellent choice for families who want a lightweight stroller that doesn't compromise on everyday functionality.

Choose the Silver Cross Breez if you're looking for premium innovations like a folding bassinet, a higher weight capacity, and a seat that can be positioned closer to you during the early months. It's a compelling option for parents who prefer a traditional pram-style experience without stepping up to a full-size stroller.

UPPAbaby Kona vs. Joie Caraway Whirl

The UPPAbaby Kona and Joie Caraway Whirl are both compact, reversible-seat strollers designed for everyday use, but they appeal to different types of families.

The Kona is a premium mid-size stroller that emphasizes high-end materials, a compact fold, and premium features like an adapter-free UPPAbaby travel system, integrated newborn apron, and oversized storage basket. The Caraway Whirl delivers many of the same everyday conveniences at a much more affordable price, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious parents.

One feature that truly sets the Caraway Whirl apart is its 360° Whirl wheels. Unlike traditional swivel wheels, all four wheels rotate in any direction, making it incredibly easy to maneuver through tight spaces, crowded stores, and busy sidewalks.

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want...

• Premium materials and finishes
• A newborn-ready stroller with an integrated newborn apron
• Direct attachment for UPPAbaby infant car seats without adapters
• A spacious 30-pound storage basket for diaper bags, groceries, and everyday essentials
• A more refined ride with premium suspension and design

Choose the Joie Caraway Whirl if you want...

• A more budget-friendly everyday stroller
• Innovative 360° Whirl wheels for effortless maneuverability
• A one-handed self-standing fold
• Included accessories like a removable cup holder
• Excellent everyday features at an exceptional value

Quick Specs

UPPAbaby Kona

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 22 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 10.3" L × 20.7" W × 27.1" H
• Unfolded dimensions: 37.4" L × 20.6" W × 41.25" H
• Basket capacity: 30 lbs

Joie Caraway Whirl

• Stroller type: Mid-size, single
• Use: Birth to 50 lbs
• Weight: 21.6 lbs
• Folded dimensions: 16″ L x 20.5″ W x 31″ H
• Unfolded dimensions: 32″ L x 20.5″ W x 42″ H
• Basket capacity: 10 lbs

Bottom Line

Choose the UPPAbaby Kona if you want premium materials, a more spacious stroller, and one of the largest storage baskets in the mid-size category. Its 30-pound basket is ideal for parents who regularly carry a fully stocked diaper bag, groceries, or shopping bags.

Choose the Joie Caraway Whirl if your top priorities are affordability and maneuverability. Its unique 360° Whirl wheels make it incredibly fun and easy to push, making it an excellent value for families who don't need as much storage space.

Is the UPPAbaby Kona Worth It? 

Yes! If you've been trying to decide between a compact travel stroller like the UPPAbaby Minu V3 and a full-size single stroller like the UPPAbaby Cruz V3, the Kona may be exactly what you've been waiting for. It delivers the premium quality, thoughtful features, and smooth ride UPPAbaby is known for in a lighter, more compact stroller that's easier to live with every day.

The Kona offers a compelling middle ground between a travel stroller and full-size stroller. It's lightweight enough to lift into the car, compact enough for apartments and smaller trunks, yet still includes features parents often have to sacrifice with smaller strollers, like a reversible seat, generous storage basket, newborn-ready design, and premium suspension.

The Kona won't replace a true travel stroller if your priority is fitting a stroller in an airplane overhead bin, and it isn't designed to replace a convertible double stroller like the Vista V3. Instead, it excels as an everyday stroller for families who want one premium stroller that can handle newborn walks, toddler adventures, errands, vacations, and everything in between.

We especially recommend the Kona for:

• First-time parents looking for one stroller from birth through toddlerhood
• Families deciding between a travel stroller and a full-size stroller
• City parents who need a compact stroller without sacrificing comfort
• Suburban families who want a stroller that's easy to load into the car
• Parents who value a large storage basket and premium materials
• Families planning to use an UPPAbaby infant car seat

Bottom line: If your budget allows for a premium stroller, we think the UPPAbaby Kona is one of the strongest new mid-size strollers on the market. It strikes an impressive balance between portability and everyday performance, making it a stroller that many families can confidently use as their primary stroller from day one.

UPPAbaby Kona FAQ

Some of the most asked questions, answered here for you!

How much does the UPPAbaby Kona weigh?

The UPPAbaby Kona weighs 22 pounds, making it lighter than the UPPAbaby Cruz V3 while still offering premium features like a reversible seat, newborn-ready design, and a generous 30-pound storage basket.

How does the UPPAbaby Kona fold?

The Kona features a one-hand, self-standing fold and can be folded with the stroller seat attached in either the parent-facing or forward-facing position. An integrated carry strap makes it easier to lift and transport once folded.

Does the UPPAbaby Kona have a large storage basket?

Yes! The Kona's extra-large storage basket holds up to 30 pounds, making it one of the largest baskets in the mid-size stroller category. It's perfect for carrying a diaper bag, groceries, shopping bags, or everything you need for a full day out.

What comes with the UPPAbaby Kona?

The Kona includes the stroller frame and seat, bumper bar, rain shield, bug shield, and UPPAbaby's 3-year warranty. Accessories like the bassinet, snack tray, cup holder, PiggyBack board, and travel bag are sold separately.

Is the UPPAbaby Kona GREENGUARD Gold Certified?

Yes! The UPPAbaby Kona is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, meaning it has been tested for low chemical emissions to help create a healthier environment for babies and young children.

Is the UPPAbaby Kona good for toddlers?

Yes! The Kona is designed to grow with your child from birth to 50 pounds, with a tall 21-inch seat back (taller than most other competing mid-size strollers, which are closer to 18-20 inches), adjustable canopy height (adding another inch!), and adjustable footrest for lasting comfort. Its four-position recline moves from a nap-friendly near-flat recline to a fully upright seat, giving toddlers a comfortable place to nap or sit up and explore. Parents will also love the no-rethread harness and optional Kona Snack Tray (sold separately), making snack time on the go a little easier. We know toddlers love their snacks!

Is the UPPAbaby Kona a good city stroller?

Yes! The UPPAbaby Kona was designed with city life in mind. Its slim frame, lightweight 22-pound design, compact fold, and smooth suspension make it easy to navigate crowded sidewalks, elevators, public transportation, and tight spaces. Thoughtful features like the one-hand fold and integrated carry strap are especially helpful for parents tackling stairs, apartment walk-ups, or quick transitions between the stroller, a taxi, or the subway.

Is the UPPAbaby Kona good for suburban families?

Yes! The UPPAbaby Kona is an excellent everyday stroller for suburban families, especially if you're deciding between a travel stroller and a full-size stroller. It offers the comfort and features of a full-size stroller in a lighter, more compact design that's easy to load into the car and takes up less trunk space. Whether you're heading out for neighborhood walks, errands, farmers markets, zoo trips, or weekend adventures, the Kona is designed to grow with your family from birth through toddlerhood.

Can you travel with the UPPAbaby Kona?

Yes, but it's not an overhead-bin travel stroller. The Kona is best gate-checked when flying and can be protected with the UPPAbaby Travel Bag. If you want a stroller that fits in an airplane overhead bin, consider the UPPAbaby Minu V3 instead.

Does the UPPAbaby Kona convert into a double stroller?

No. The Kona is a single stroller and does not convert to accommodate two seats. However, it is compatible with the UPPAbaby PiggyBack ride-along board for an older sibling.

Where does the Kona fit in the UPPAbaby stroller lineup?

The UPPAbaby Kona fills the gap between the compact Minu V3 and the full-size Cruz V3, making it UPPAbaby's first true mid-size stroller. The lineup now includes the Minu V3 for travel and overhead-bin compatibility, the Kona for everyday mid-size versatility, the Cruz V3 for full-size single stroller performance, the Vista V3 for families who need a convertible single-to-double stroller, and the Ridge for jogging and all-terrain adventures. If you're looking for a stroller that offers more comfort and features than a travel stroller without the size and weight of a full-size model, the Kona is the sweet spot in the lineup.

Is the UPPAbaby Kona worth the price?

Yes! We think the UPPAbaby Kona offers exceptional value in the premium mid-size stroller category. It combines a newborn-ready reversible seat, compact fold, premium suspension, and an impressive 30-pound storage basket at a lower price than many of its closest competitors. If you're looking for one stroller that can take you from the newborn stage through the toddler years without stepping up to the cost or size of a full-size stroller, the Kona is one of the best values on the market.

Why Trust Strolleria?

Strolleria is a family-owned and operated business, and helping families is truly in our DNA. For decades, we’ve been guiding parents through the ever-evolving world of baby gear—from nursery furniture and strollers to car seats designed for both city sidewalks and suburban streets. No two families are the same, which is why our expert recommendations are thoughtfully curated to match your unique lifestyle and parenting journey.

Because we work with parents through every stage of parenthood, we stay closely in tune with the needs of today’s modern families and the innovations shaping the industry. We believe in relationships over transactions, taking the time to listen, educate, and support you every step of the way. Strolleria has been offering honest, unbiased product reviews and comparisons for years, and our goal is simple: to provide informative, educational guidance that helps you confidently choose the perfect products for your growing family.

Still Have Questions?

Strolleria is dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents. If you have more questions about the UPPAbaby Kona, feel free to contact us by emailing us at cs@strolleria.com or chat with us today!