Bugaboo Showdown: Fox 5 Renew vs. Dragonfly Plus (2026 Review)

Choosing a Bugaboo is an investment in quality, longevity, and style. But for 2026, the decision for many parents has come down to two heavy hitters: the heavy-duty Bugaboo Fox 5 Renew and the newly updated, city-slicking Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus.

While both offer Bugaboo’s signature smooth ride and premium build quality, they are designed for two very different lifestyles. One is an all-terrain powerhouse; the other is a marvel of urban engineering.

Here is our complete Newbie and Me breakdown of how the Bugaboo Fox 5 Renew compares to the Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus, and which one you should actually buy.

1. At a Glance: The 2026 Upgrades

Bugaboo has refreshed both models recently, making them more competitive than ever.

The Fox 5 Renew focuses on sustainability and growth. Crafted with bio-based materials to reduce its CO2 footprint, it also features an extendable toddler seat that grows by 10cm, a new breathable PureBreeze™ antibacterial mattress, and unmatched suspension.

The brand-new Dragonfly Plus takes everything parents loved about the original compact Dragonfly and refines it for city living. The major additions include a longer single-piece seat, a fully extendable UPF 50+ canopy for maximum shade, and the highly requested locking front swivel wheels to handle bumpy pavements.

2. Size, Weight, and The Fold

This is where the two pushchairs dramatically split paths.

• Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus (The Winner for Storage): Weighing just 9.9kg, the Dragonfly Plus is built for parents short on space. Its party trick is the patented one-hand, self-standing fold that collapses with the bassinet or seat still attached. If you live in an apartment, use public transport, or have a smaller car boot, this fold is a game-changer.
• Bugaboo Fox 5 Renew (The Winner for Sturdiness): At 12.3kg, the Fox 5 is significantly heavier and bulkier. While it does feature a one-hand fold, it takes up a substantial amount of boot space. However, that extra weight translates directly to sturdiness, making it feel completely planted on rough terrain.

3. Terrain and Maneuverability

Where will you be walking the most?

If your weekends consist of muddy dog walks, woodland trails, or National Trust parks, the Fox 5 Renew is the undisputed champion. It features extra-large, puncture-proof wheels and advanced central-joint suspension. It glides over tree roots and thick mud effortlessly.

The Dragonfly Plus is an urban hybrid. Its wheels are mid-sized—larger than a travel stroller like the Butterfly, but smaller than the Fox. It features full urban suspension and the new swivel wheel lock system, meaning it handles dropped kerbs, cobbled high streets, and park paths beautifully. However, it will struggle on deep mud or intense off-road trails.

4. Storage Capacity

Both pushchairs are generous with storage, but the Dragonfly Plus punches above its weight class.

• The Dragonfly Plus features a 10kg underseat basket capacity, plus a flexible rear storage pocket that has been redesigned to be lighter and cleaner.
• The Fox 5 Renew matches it with a massive underseat basket, but the higher seat position of the Fox makes accessing your bags slightly easier from all angles.

The Verdict: Which Bugaboo is Right for You?

Buy the Bugaboo Fox 5 Renew if:

• You live in a rural area or prioritize off-road weekend walks.
• You have a large car boot and plenty of hallway space at home.
• You want the smoothest, most cushioned ride possible for your baby on all terrains.

Buy the Bugaboo Dragonfly Plus if:

• You live in a city or suburb and do most of your walking on pavements, high streets, and paved parks.
• You need to fold your pram frequently for public transport, cafes, or a smaller car boot.
• You want the luxury of a full-size pram (like the bassinet) without the bulk.

Test Drive Them in Store

Still can't decide? The best way to choose between the Fox 5 Renew and the Dragonfly Plus is to push them yourself. Visit us at your local Newbie and Me showroom in Crewe, Leeds, or Birmingham. You can test drive both models on our indoor track, and we will even help you check which one fits best in your car boot!

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