Vista V2 Vs. Bugaboo Donkey 5: Which Is Right For Your Family?
Choosing the right stroller for your growing family is a significant decision that impacts your daily life for years to come. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 and Bugaboo Donkey 5 stand out as premium options with distinct approaches to accommodating multiple children. This comparison breaks down the key differences and similarities to help you determine which stroller system best fits your family’s lifestyle, needs, and budget.
Key Differences At A Glance
| Feature | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Bugaboo Donkey 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Vertical (piggyback) seating | Horizontal (side-by-side) seating |
| Width | 26.5 inches (consistent) | 23.6″ (mono) / 29″ (duo) |
| Base Price | $999 | $1,860 |
| Included Accessories | Toddler seat, bassinet, rain shield, bug shield | Bassinet, rain cover, side luggage basket |
| Weight | 27 lbs (frame + seat) | 33 lbs (frame + seat) |
| Max Capacity | Up to 3 children | Up to 2 children |
Design & Configuration: Vertical vs. Horizontal Approach
The most fundamental difference between these strollers is their configuration approach for multiple children.
UPPAbaby Vista V2
The Vista V2 uses a vertical stacking system where siblings sit one in front of the other or one above the other. This design maintains the stroller’s original width, making it easier to navigate through standard doorways and store aisles. The Vista can accommodate up to three children with the addition of the PiggyBack ride-along board.
The Vista’s configuration offers 7+ seating arrangements with various combinations of infant car seats, bassinets, and toddler seats. This flexibility allows for adapting as your children grow.
Bugaboo Donkey 5
The Donkey 5 takes a horizontal approach, expanding in width to transform from a single (mono) to a double (duo) stroller. In mono mode, it includes a side luggage basket for additional storage. When expanded to duo mode, this basket is replaced with a second seat.
The side-by-side seating gives both children equal viewing positions and accessibility, which some parents prefer. However, the expanded width (29 inches) can make navigating tight spaces more challenging.
Price Comparison
| Configuration | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Bugaboo Donkey 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Single Stroller | $999 | $1,860 (Mono Complete) |
| Double Configuration | $1,190 (additional RumbleSeat: $189.99) | $2,260 (Duo Complete) |
| Triple Configuration | $1,260 (with PiggyBack board: $69.99) | Not available |
| Additional Accessories | Lower adapters: $24.99 | Various accessories sold separately |
The price difference is substantial, with the Bugaboo Donkey 5 commanding a premium of approximately $860 over the Vista V2 for the base configuration. This price gap widens when comparing the double configurations.
Size, Weight & Maneuverability
Dimensions & Weight
| Specification | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Bugaboo Donkey 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 26.5 inches | 23.6″ (mono) / 29″ (duo) |
| Folded Dimensions | 17.3″W x 25.7″L x 33.3″H | 23.6″W x 34.3″L x 15.7″H (mono) |
| Weight (Frame + Seat) | 27 lbs | 33 lbs |
| Wheel Size | 8″ front, 11.5″ rear | 10″ front, 12″ rear |
Maneuverability Assessment
The Vista V2 maintains consistent width regardless of configuration, making it more nimble in tight spaces. Its lighter frame (27 lbs vs. 33 lbs) also contributes to easier handling, especially when lifting into car trunks or navigating stairs.
The Donkey 5 features larger wheels and advanced suspension, providing smoother rides over rough terrain. However, many users, especially those under 5’5″ in height, report that the Donkey feels more substantial and sometimes unwieldy when fully expanded to duo mode.
Both strollers feature all-wheel suspension and foam-filled tires that never go flat, though the Donkey’s larger wheels give it a slight edge on rough surfaces.
Storage & Capacity
Storage capacity varies significantly between these models:
UPPAbaby Vista V2
- Large underseat basket accessible from all sides
- 30 lb weight capacity in the basket
- Single storage location
Bugaboo Donkey 5
- Underseat basket with 22 lb capacity
- Side luggage basket in mono configuration (holds 22 lbs)
- Distributed storage options
The Donkey 5 offers more total storage capacity in mono mode, but this advantage disappears when converted to duo mode as the side basket is replaced with the second seat.
Seating Options & Configurations
UPPAbaby Vista V2
The Vista V2 comes standard with one toddler seat and one bassinet. The toddler seat supports children from 3 months up to 50 lbs and offers a one-handed recline with multiple positions. The included bassinet is suitable from birth up to 20 lbs or until the baby can push up on hands and knees.
For a second child, parents can purchase the RumbleSeat ($189.99) which accommodates children 3 months to 35 lbs. A third child can ride on the PiggyBack board ($69.99).
Bugaboo Donkey 5
The Donkey 5 Mono includes one seat and one bassinet. The seat supports children from 6 months up to 50 lbs. The bassinet is suitable from birth to 20 lbs.
Converting to the Duo configuration requires purchasing the Duo extension set or buying the complete Duo package initially. Both seats in the Duo configuration have equal weight capacity and features.
Pros & Cons
UPPAbaby Vista V2
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| More affordable ($999 vs. $1,860) | Vertical configuration means one child has limited visibility |
| Consistent width fits through standard doorways | Second seat has lower weight limit (35 lbs vs. 50 lbs) |
| Lighter weight (27 lbs vs. 33 lbs) | Less storage when configured for two children |
| Can accommodate up to three children | Second seat requires separate purchase |
| More included accessories | Slightly smaller wheels |
Bugaboo Donkey 5
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Side-by-side seating gives equal views for both children | Significantly more expensive |
| More storage in mono configuration | Wider in duo mode (29″ may not fit through all doorways) |
| Larger wheels handle rough terrain better | Heavier (33 lbs vs. 27 lbs) |
| Both seats have equal 50 lb weight capacity | Can only accommodate two children maximum |
| Narrower in mono mode | Can feel unwieldy for shorter parents |
Best For Different Scenarios
UPPAbaby Vista V2 is ideal for:
- Urban families: The consistent width makes navigating city sidewalks, store aisles, and public transportation more manageable
- Budget-conscious parents: With a starting price $860 lower than the Donkey 5
- Families planning for three children: The PiggyBack board option allows for a third rider
- Parents of different heights: The adjustable handlebar and lighter frame make it accessible for a wider range of users
Bugaboo Donkey 5 is ideal for:
- Off-road adventures: Larger wheels and robust suspension handle rough terrain better
- Parents prioritizing equal experiences: Side-by-side seating gives both children the same view and access
- Single-child families with storage needs: The side basket in mono mode offers exceptional storage capacity
- Families with twins: Equal seating positions and weight capacities make it perfect for twins
Parent Experiences
From parent reviews and forums, several common themes emerge:
Vista V2 users frequently praise its maneuverability, more affordable price point, and ability to accommodate a third child. Some note that the child in the RumbleSeat has a more limited view, especially when using the lower adapters.
Donkey 5 users appreciate the equal seating positions for both children and superior handling on rough terrain. However, many mention the width in duo mode as challenging in tight spaces, and shorter parents (under 5’5″) sometimes find it intimidating to maneuver.
One parent from a Reddit thread noted: “I did go see them both in person at Strolleria and the Bugaboo was a little intimidating due to its size (I’m 5′).”
Final Verdict: Which Stroller Is Right For You?
Choose the UPPAbaby Vista V2 if:
- You have a tighter budget but still want a premium stroller
- You frequently navigate narrow spaces or crowded areas
- You plan to have three children close in age
- You prioritize lighter weight and easier lifting
- You want more included accessories out of the box
Choose the Bugaboo Donkey 5 if:
- Budget is less of a concern and you want the premium side-by-side experience
- You have twins or want equal seating positions for both children
- You frequently traverse rough terrain or uneven surfaces
- You need maximum storage capacity with one child
- You want both seats to have the same weight capacity
Both strollers represent the premium end of the market and offer exceptional quality, durability, and features. Your final choice should align with your specific family needs, living environment, and how you plan to use the stroller most frequently.
While the price difference is substantial, both strollers are designed to last through multiple children, making them long-term investments in your family’s mobility and comfort.