UppaBaby Aria vs. Aria V2: What’s the Difference?

Having a baby? One of the first things you find out when you’ve got a bun in the oven is that you’ll need a car seat to leave the hospital. With UppaBaby’s overwhelming popularity  in NYC, it’s no wonder you’re asking yourself which to choose, the UppaBaby Aria vs. Aria 2?

Of course, you don’t need an UppaBaby car seat for your UppaBaby stroller, should you choose one, but staying in brand sure makes it easy! In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the two Aria Infant Car Seats so you can figure out which is right for you.

Key Takeaways

• When comparing Aria vs. Aria 2 with regard to size, the Aria 2 is a bit longer which means your baby may be able to stay in it a little longer. Both infant car seats are ultra light at about 6 pounds (the Aria 5.9lbs and the Aria 2 6.1lbs).

• The new Aria 2 is similar to the Aria, but has more features and upgrades such as better fabric, more robust side impact protection, an extended canopy, and a clearer installation indicator. The Aria 2 also features extra ventilation for the summer and an included foot cover for the winter.

Table of Contents

• Aria vs. Aria 2: Size

• Aria vs. Aria 2: Features

• The Verdict: UppaBaby Aria vs. Aria 2

Aria vs. Aria 2: Size

The Aria car seat was brought to market as an ultra light option by UppaBaby and it doesn’t disappoint. If you think you’ll choose between them based on weight, you’re out of luck. 

When comparing the size of the Aria 1 vs. Aria V2, the two infant car seats weigh nearly the same. The Aria weighs in at 5.9lbs whereas the Aria V2 weighs 6.1lbs.

However, the new Aria V2 seat is 2” longer than the Aria, which means your baby may be able to stay in it a bit longer. In NYC, the longer you can be in your infant car seat (read: the only portable one that clicks onto your stroller), the better.

In comparison, the Aria is 23.7”L x 17”W x 23.3”H and the Aria V2 is 25.8” x 17” x 23.7”.

Aria vs. Aria V2: Features

As for features, although in many ways similar, the Aria V2 steps it up again. Let’s take it point by point.

Fabric

Whereas the Aria fabric is just fine, the Aria V2 kicks it up a notch with a softer, more premium and breathable flame retardant free fabric. The Aria V2’s fabric is also easier to clean.

Side Impact Protection

The Aria already had side impact protection (SIP) but the Aria V2 offers more coverage, with additional energy absorbing foam around the child’s head and torso. 

Extended Canopy

As for the canopy, the Aria offers ample canopy coverage, however, the Aria V2’s canopy is extended offering more shade for baby.

Harness

Both the Aria and Aria V2 offer a no-rethread harness, meaning it’s super easy to adjust as baby grows. 

Headrest Positions

Both strollers offer 25 easy to adjust head positions, so baby can always be safe and comfortable. 

Ease of Installation

The Aria and Aria V2 both feature a SmartSecure base. Whereas the Aria was easy enough to install, feedback was that the red indicator on the base caused confusion. This was updated with the Aria V2, which now has an easier red-to-green indicator. The Aria V2 also has an adjustable foot for easy leveling.

Comfort

The new Aria V2 offers a ventilated seat back which means no more sweaty backs. Your baby will definitely appreciate this come summer! For winter months, the Aria V2 also has an all-weather foot cover included in the purchase.

Base

Both the base of the Aria and Aria V2 included an anti-rebound panel and a load leg, two important safety features that protect your baby in case of an accident.

Compatibility 

Both the Aria and Aria V2 are compatible with UppaBaby stroller line up. The infant car seats do not work with other strollers unfortunately. 

For this reason, we recommend that you stick with the UppaBaby family for your primary (Vista V3, Cruz V3, or Ridge) and lightweight stroller (Minu V3)  if you want this car seat, as you’ll have choices on how you want to travel. 

The Verdict: UppaBaby Aria vs. Aria V2

So now you know the differences between the Aria vs Aria V2, it will be easier to choose the best infant car seat for you. We think, for city families, the Aria V2 has an edge, as its longer seat means it’s possible you can stave off the dreaded convertible car seat for a tiny bit longer. 

Believe us, every moment counts. Also, the better fabrics, ventilation and foot cover are nice extras, as these features will make your little one more comfy in the seat. And, of course, more intuitive installation is, as they say, priceless.

Shop Car Seats and More With Babesta

Come visit Babesta for all of your big gear decisions. At Babesta you can see these models in person and we can step you through everything so that you walk out confident you have chosen well. 

Whether it’s your primary stroller, lightweight stroller, high chair, front carrier, bouncer, travel crib or any other of the musts for baby, we’re here to help. We also have a range of services that take off some of the worry: we hold items until you need them, assemble your stroller for free, and even teach you how to use your new ride!

There’s no reason to lose your cool shopping the baby market. Just come to Babesta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the UppaBaby Aria compatible with the Vista V2?

Yes, both the UppaBaby Aria and Aria V2 are compatible with the Vista V2. The two car seats are also compatible with the Vista V3 and the Cruz V2 and V3 without needing any adapters. The Aria works with the Ridge and Minu with the use of an adapter. 

2. How long is the UppaBaby Aria good for? 

The Aria can be used until your baby is 30" or 30lbs, whichever they reach first. It is very important to transition to a convertible car seat at that time, as the infant car seat will not offer the same sort of protection in an accident if the baby is too big.

3. Can you use the Aria without the base?

You can use both the Aria and the Aria V2 without a base as both infant car seats feature a European Belt Router. This means you can safely install the seat with a seatbelt: the lapbelt goes across the front of the seat while the shoulder harness wraps around the back.