Bugaboo Donkey 6 vs Donkey 5 vs Donkey 4 vs Donkey 3

So Which Bugaboo Donkey Stroller is the Right One for Your Growing Family?

Updated April 2026 by July Lu, parent of 3 children and owner of Active Baby store

TL;DR — Bugaboo Donkey 6 vs 5 vs 4 vs 3 vs 2

There is no Donkey 4. Bugaboo skipped the number entirely — the line went Donkey 3 → Donkey 5 → Donkey 6. If you see "Donkey 4" listed by a seller, they mean Donkey 3.

Donkey 3 — the original modular workhorse. Converts mono → duo → twin, but sits lower, folds less easily, and needs adapters for most accessories. Discontinued; second-hand only.

Donkey 5 — the big leap. Self-standing fold, higher seats, better-ventilated bassinet, quick-snap harness, and built-in accessory points (no adapters). Water-resistant, machine-washable fabrics.

Donkey 6 — the current generation. Improved suspension, lighter-feeling frame, more padding.

Which one: Donkey 6 if you're buying new today. Donkey 5 if you find remaining stock at a good price. Donkey 3 only if you're comfortable buying used and want the classic design.

Active Baby is an authorized Bugaboo retailer in Canada, so every Donkey we sell is new, warrantied, and backed by our team.

If you've been browsing strollers and landed on the Bugaboo Donkey stroller models - the Donkey 4, 5 and now in Canada the Bugaboo Donkey 6, you're not alone in being a bit confused.

Bugaboo's Donkey series is super popular with families thanks to its awesome versatility and modular design, but figuring out the difference between these versions can be a real challenge, especially with the odd naming mix-up along the way.

Active Baby is an authorized Bugaboo brand retailer in Canada

As parents of 3 children and owners of Active Baby, we hand select the best baby products and baby brands for your family. The wide selection of Bugaboo strollers and accessories are available for you to enjoy daily activities with your family.

Let's break down everything you need to know about this Bugaboo Donkey stroller models, from what really happened with the Donkey 4 to the exciting new features in the Bugaboo Donkey 6. By the time you've read this post, you'll have a pretty clear idea of how the Bugaboo Donkey model has evolved over time as a popular luxury stroller brand in Canada.

Common Questions about Bugaboo Donkey Strollers

Q: What are the main differences between the latest Bugaboo Donkey 6 double stroller and its two Predecessors?

The biggest change is the jump from Donkey 3 to 5 - with the Donkey 5 bringing a much smoother folding mechanism, a higher seat and a more comfy bassinet height for parents, better airflow for the little ones and integrated accessory points that mean no more adapters needed. The Donkey 3 is a tough one, but it's a bit heavier and less convenient overall compared to the newer model

Q: Which Bugaboo Donkey model has the best suspension and comfort among the last Bugaboo Donkey stroller versions?

The Donkey 6 definitely takes the lead with improved suspension. It's way more nimble over bumps and uneven ground. The frame feels a bit lighter, the seats have better padding and a safer harness system that clicks into place in no time.

Q: Where can I buy the Donkey 3 and 4 strollers?

You can sometimes find the new (or second-hand) one online through eBay, local Facebook groups or specialized stroller resale places.

Q: What Bugaboo Donkey accessories do I need, and are they compatible?

If you go for the Donkey 6 or 5, you've got built-in attachment points, so no Bugaboo adapters are needed. But if you go for the Donkey 4 and 3, you might need to think about adapters, so keep that in mind.

Q: Which is the real Bugaboo all-terrain option?

If you want a stroller that can handle the great outdoors, from bumpy sidewalks to park trails, then the Bugaboo Donkey 5 is the ultimate all-terrain stroller. It's got improved suspension and sturdy wheels that can handle all sorts of terrain, urban streets, grass, gravel and more.

Clearing Up the Bugaboo Donkey 4 Mystery

It's a bit of a family secret, but Bugaboo actually skipped naming a stroller "Donkey 4" in their official product range. Which means, officially, there is no Donkey 4. The company went straight from Donkey 3 to Donkey 5.

Apparently, Bugaboo hasn't told us why they skipped the number, but brands often do this kind of thing for all sorts of reasons, like lining up with other products, or to signal a major leap forward in tech or design.

So, if you keep hearing "Donkey 4" mentioned by other people, it's probably just a reference to Donkey 3 or some informal updates about that generation. If you're shopping and see "Donkey 4" listed, it's a good idea to check if they actually mean Donkey 3 or a variation of it.

The Donkey 3: Where It All Began

To get our bearings, the Donkey 3 was one of the earlier strollers from Bugaboo and was a big hit with families. It has that famous modular design that lets you easily switch between single and double stroller modes, perfect if you're planning on having more kids or if you need it to be versatile. The pram body and seat fabric on the Donkey 3 are interchangeable, but compared to the newer versions, the options for seat fabric and pram body materials are a bit limited and not as comfortable or compatible.

The Donkey 3 is solid and practical, but it could be a bit improved in a few areas, like:

• The fold/unfold mechanism is decent, but it can be a bit of a pain to use.

• The seat and bassinet sit a bit lower down, so you might find you're bending down a bit more to access them.

• Adding accessories often required adapters, and lots of accessories and adapters were sold separately, making it less convenient to add things like sun canopies or rain covers compared to newer models.

• Ventilation in the bassinet was pretty basic.

In contrast, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 pram body is totally compatible with the Donkey 5, and the bassinet is way more comfy and easier to use, much better for newborns.

If you can find a good deal on a Donkey 3, though, it's still a great option, especially if you like a classic design and want to save a few bucks. But if you're looking for a bit of convenience, comfort and some style, the newer models are where it's at.

Key Features of Bugaboo Donkey Double Strollers

When it comes to growing families, a double stroller like the Bugaboo Donkey 5 is absolute gold. The Bugaboo Donkey series is all about versatility, so you can switch from a spacious single stroller to a double stroller in just a couple of clicks, perfect if you've got twins or siblings who are close in age. The side-by-side design means both kids get a great view, and you can steer the stroller with one hand even when it's fully loaded.

One of the standout features is the massive puncture-proof tyres. These tyres are built for durability and comfort, so you can tackle any terrain with confidence. And then there's storage - the underseat basket and side luggage basket have loads of space for all your essentials - up to 22 lbs, perfect for busy outings with kids. Whether you're navigating everyday doorways or loading up for a day out, the Bugaboo Donkey 5 is adaptable, making it the ultimate all-terrain stroller for growing families.

Meet The Bugaboo Donkey 5 stroller

Alright, let's take a look at the Bugaboo stroller that's got all the parents raving at the moment. The Donkey 5. This is the "big sister" of the Donkey 3, and it packs in heaps of improvements that make life on the go with your little one a lot easier without sacrificing any of that Bugaboo style that we all know and love. The Donkey 5 is a super versatile stroller, designed to go from a single to a double stroller, and even comes with the option to add a board for a third child as you grow your family. Its clever design means it's adaptable to whatever your family needs, and you can get it in Mono, Duo, and Twin configurations.

What we love - The Donkey 5's New Features

1. The Folding System's Got a Makeover. The Donkey 5's got a brilliant new folding system that includes a self-standing fold feature for super easy storage. Throw in some ergonomic buttons and a friction-lock unfold feature, and it's a game-changer, especially when you've got a wriggling baby in one hand!

2. Seats that are a bit higher up. Now the seats on the Donkey 5 are up a bit higher, making it way easier to pick up your little one or interact with them during a stroll. Bye-bye backaches! The seat can even handle up to 23 kg (50 lbs), making it perfect for growing toddlers.

3. Bassinets with Better Ventilation and Air Flow. They've sorted out the ventilation on the Donkey 5's bassinets with some lovely mesh panels and breathable fabric. Plus, you get air flow features in both the seat and the extendable sun canopy as well. This keeps your baby at the right temperature - not too hot, not too cold.

4. Harnesses that Snap In Quickly and have soft padding. The new harness on the Donkey 5 is super easy to adjust and snap in, and the padding's been made softer so your little one can ride in comfort every time.

5. Integrated Bugaboo Donkey 5 Accessories and Attachments - No Adapters Needed. No more wrestling with adapters for cup holders or wheel boards on an old model. The Donkey 5 has built-in spots for these, keeping everything tidy and super easy to use. You can even get a Bugaboo Donkey Car Seat Adapter Maxi Cosi that lets you clip in your Maxi Cosi car seat in a snap.

6. Water-Resistant, Machine-Washable Fabrics. Let's be honest, parents. Between spills, the weather, and everyday messes, having fabrics that are easy to clean is a total lifesaver. The Donkey 5 also comes in a new premium graphite chassis colour and some fresh fabric options to boot.

7. Rolling Smoothly. Parents have said time and time again that the Donkey 5 rolls super smoothly and feels lighter on the push compared to earlier versions, making it a breeze to zip through crowded malls or tight sidewalks.

8. The chassis has large, puncture-proof rear wheels and big front wheels too, which gives you plenty of stability and smoothness. And of course, the handlebar is adjustable to your height. You can ride in style no matter what your height. The Bugaboo Donkey 5 is designed to fit through standard doorways, making it practical for everyday use.

9. A Big Basket in the Underseat Area. The Donkey 5's got a huge underseat basket that can handle up to 22 lbs of essentials, making it super practical for everyday outings.

10. A Sun Canopy with Peeking Windows and Airflow. The Bugaboo 5 stroller features a large extendable sun canopy with a peekaboo panel for privacy and airflow. You can even get a Bugaboo Donkey Breezy Sun Canopy that lets the cool breezes in while blocking the sun.

The Donkey 5 - Single or Double?

The Donkey 5 comes in three main configurations: the Donkey 5 Mono (which is a single, slim setup), the Mono Mode (where it's a single stroller) or the Duo (which is a side-by-side double stroller). It converts easily from one to the other in just three clicks, and it's super slinky at just 29 inches wide, so it's perfect for squeezing through doorways and tight spaces.

Is The Donkey 5 for You?

If you're juggling one or two little rascals, want easy-to-use features, and want a stroller that's both stylish and practical, the Donkey 5 is the perfect choice. It's ideal for families who:

• Need an adjustable pram that adapts to their changing needs

• Want a stylish and modern design

• Are after reliable comfort and convenience

• Are you looking for a stroller that adapts to your growing family's needs with Mono, Duo, and Twin configurations?

• Want the option to add a board for a third child!

It's become a real winner among families because of its thoughtful balance of upgrades and practical design.

The New Bugaboo Donkey 6: The Next Generation

Now for the exciting part! Bugaboo's been a bit coy about the Donkey 6, but there's plenty of buzz and rumour floating around about what we can expect in the next generation.

What Parents are Really Hoping For

• Even Better Folding. Parents are hoping they can get lighter, more compact, and more intuitive folding. Anything that makes it easier to load and unload strollers, especially when you're flying and need a compact fold that's easy to chug through security, is a winner in my book.

• New colours and a fresh new look. Bugaboo always manages to come up with fresh and exciting styles and colours that feel modern but timeless in their own way.

• Lighter frames and better fabrics. The Donkey 6 could probably do with a lighter frame - maybe even some updated fabric technology that's not only fun to look at but is also more breathable and eco-friendly. As it is, the Donkey 6 still uses more recycled and eco-friendly components in its build.

• Built-In Accessory Integration - that just makes life easier. Expect this trend to keep on going - it just makes sense to integrate things so you don't need to faff around with loads of extra bits.

• Improving all-terrain performance. For parents, it's all about getting the stroller to handle all sorts of terrain, including snow and rougher stuff, year-round.

• Getting more versatile like the Bugaboo Kangaroo. People are also looking for more adaptable stroller configurations like the Kangaroo, which can grow with your family and changing needs.

Because the details on the Donkey 6 aren't completely finalized yet, it's all a bit of a mystery box for now. The Bugaboo Donkey 6 has a patented design that allows it to grow with your family's changing needs. The Bugaboo Donkey 6 will be released soon in 2026.

How Do The Bugaboo Donkey strollers Compare?

I know it's helpful to see how these compare clearly, so here's a handy breakdown:

What Does This Mean for Your Family?

If you need a tried-and-true option now...

The Donkey 5 is an absolute gem of a stroller. It's got all the modern features, style and comfort you need for a day out in the city. And because it's all so versatile, it's also great for weekend park strolls. Plus, it's compatible with the Bugaboo wheeled board (yeah, you can even get one from Bugaboo!), so you can easily add on an extra seat for a bigger sibling.

If you're on a budget or don't mind second-hand gear...

Have a look at getting a Donkey 3 - just be clear on what you're getting and be happy with the slightly older design and a few less frills. It's sturdy, works well, but just lacks some of the newer features and upgrades that the newer models have.

If you love being an early adopter and don't need a stroller straight away...

Keep an eye out for the Donkey 6, because it looks like it's going to be an absolute stunner when it comes out. You might even be able to get those new features and improvements for yourself if you don't mind waiting a bit.

If you're after something even lighter or more city-friendly, you might also want to check out the Bugaboo Butterfly or the Bugaboo Dragonfly. They're both perfect for travel or just being out and about in the city.

Ready to find your perfect stroller? Head over to the Bugaboo shop and see what fits your family's needs best.

Bugaboo Stroller Accessories

Bugaboo are also known for their great range of stroller accessories that just make life with little ones that little bit easier. One of the most popular add-ons is probably the Bugaboo wheeled board, which lets a third child jump on for the ride - perfect for families with twins or siblings. The comfort wheeled board is a great bit of kit, giving your little one a smooth, stable platform to ride on, and can easily be slotted onto the Donkey 5 and other Bugaboo strollers.

The Bugaboo Donkey Breezy Sun Canopy offers sun protection while allowing cool breezes through. Other must-haves include car seat adapters for quick transitions from car to stroller, underseat baskets to stash all your gear, and loads of different seat fabrics and sun canopies to personalize your stroller's look and comfort.

All the Bugaboo stroller accessories are designed to be easy to pop on and off, you can mix and match to suit your family's changing needs. Whether you're looking to add the wheeled board, swap out seat fabrics or just pop more storage on, Bugaboo's got the accessories for every adventure. Shop for Bugaboo stroller accessories and Bugaboo stroller parts in Canada now. Buy them online and Active Baby will ship direct to you. 

Bugaboo Donkey Stroller Car Seat Compatibility

One of the best things about the Bugaboo strollers is how easily they hook up to all the major infant car seat brands. Get the right car seat adapters, and you can seamlessly click your baby's car seat onto your Bugaboo stroller, creating a travel system that's just so much easier to use. This is especially useful for parents who want to avoid waking their little one up during transitions.

All the adapters are really simple to pop on and off, so you can swap between car seats with ease, which is just fantastic if you need to. This flexibility means you can pick the car seat that suits your family best, safe in the knowledge it'll just work perfectly with your Bugaboo stroller every time.

Bugaboo stroller Maintenance and Care

To get the most out of your Bugaboo stroller, a bit of routine maintenance is all that's needed. Just give the stroller frame and seat a regular clean - most of the seat fabrics are machine-washable, so that makes life easy. Check the wheels for any grit and give them a wipe and the odd squirt of lubricant to keep them running smoothly - that's just what Bugaboo strollers are all about.

To keep your Bugaboo stroller running smoothly for years, it's just a case of a little maintenance here and there. Start by tidying up the stroller frame and seat regularly - most of the seat fabrics are machine-washable, which is a big help. Give the wheels a clean and a bit of lubricant now and then, and you're all done. Inspect your frame and any accessories for signs of wear and tear. Tighten up any loose bits and replace anything that needs fixing. When you're not using your stroller, pop it in a cool, dry place to keep it safe from extreme temperatures and moisture. By following these easy care tips, you'll be able to get on with enjoying your family adventures with your Bugaboo stroller, knowing it's been looked after.

Bugaboo Donkey stroller Safety Features

Safety is right at the heart of every Bugaboo stroller design. It's a top priority for us. Each model comes with a rock-solid 5-point shoulder harness to keep your little one safely strapped in, no matter what. And that clever foot brake is super easy to use, so you can stop the stroller quickly whenever you need to, giving you peace of mind when navigating busy streets or tricky hills.

We also built Bugaboo strollers with big, puncture-proof wheels and a super sturdy frame to handle all sorts of bumps and rough terrain - so you don't have to worry about accidents or a bumpy ride. All of our strollers meet or exceed international safety standards, so you can trust that your family is protected, no matter where your adventures take you. And with all these robust safety features, it's no wonder Bugaboo strollers are a top choice for parents who want the best for their kids.

Wrapping Things Up Like a Baby in a Seriously Great Stroller

Choosing the right stroller is a really personal thing. It's all about your family's style and rhythm, and what makes life easier for you. The Bugaboo Donkey series, even with that weird missing number and all the gossip surrounding it, is still a reliable and fantastic choice for parents on the go.

• The Donkey 3 is a solid, budget-friendly option that won't break the bank and discontinued now for a while

• The Donkey 5 was the current king of ease and comfort and looks to be hard to find and possibly discontinued now. It still a great choice if you want a older Donkey stroller model 

• The Bugaboo Donkey 6 is out in Canada now! 

Whatever you choose, know you're investing in a stroller designed with love, flexibility and the needs of modern parents in mind. We're all in this together - happy strolling, friends!

Have questions about your stroller journey or just want to chat about options? No worries, just reach out - were all parents here, navigating this crazy ride together.

Active Baby is an authorized Bugaboo retailer Canada. We have a wide selection of Bugaboo strollers and Bugaboo accessories and Bugaboo parts to keep your active day after day. Enjoy free shipping on all baby gear purchases over $89.99 at Active Baby Store in Canada.

With love, The team at Active Baby

When we compare different strollers, we will often look at different manufacturers to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of each. Sometimes, though, it’s fun to look at how a particular model evolves across new iterations.

The Bugaboo Donkey first appeared on the scene in 2011 and was a hit due to its fashionable appearance, versatility, and convenience. What really stood out for many was how easily it switched among three modes—mono, duo, and twin—with three simple clicks. Seven years later, Donkey2 arrived with redesigned storage, improved suspension, and foam-filled tires, along with other features.

With the arrival of the Bugaboo Donkey3, what can we expect, and has it continued to innovate and improve upon its already excellent predecessors?

What Remains the Same between Donkey 3 and Donkey

Before jumping in and looking at what’s new, let’s put some minds at ease by pointing out the great features that remain:

• Durable Frame. The Bugaboo Donkey3 continues to have a heavy-duty frame that can hold up well under daily use and endure for any future additions to the family.
• Suspension. When the Donkey upgraded to Bugaboo Donkey2, an improved shock absorption system was employed. The Bugaboo Donkey3 continues to use an all-wheel suspension system that gives a smooth, comfy ride.
• Customization. The Bugaboo Donkey2 offered numerous colour options for customization on the canopy, frame, and fabrics. The Bugaboo Donkey3 offers several new colours, with components of the stroller packaged separately for customization.

What Has Changed

• Tires. When the Bugaboo Donkey2 was introduced, it made the change from air-filled tires to never-flat foam tires. While air-filled tires are known for their ability to absorb shock from bumps and uneven terrain, they also have the drawback of being vulnerable to puncture and leaks. With the change to foam-filled tired and the improvements to the suspension, the Bugaboo Donkey2 provided a comfortable ride without the fear of a flat tire. The Bugaboo Donkey3 continues to use foam-filled tires, but they have a new, lighter design and a 360-degree front wheel swivel that is smoother than ever.
• Canopy. Already one of the Donkey’s strong points, the canopy seems to get better with each new version. The Bugaboo Donkey2 has a canopy that extends to completely shelter your little one from sun, wind, and rain. It can be fully open, fully closed, or fully extended and has water-repellent UPF 50+ fabric that is stretchy and breathable. If it has a drawback, it is the lack of a peekaboo window, but the Bugaboo Donkey3 addresses this with not one, but two peekaboo windows, one in front and one in back. Both have mesh and a foldable cover that can be left open for air circulation. The canopy is also now made with a canvas-like material, making it even more luxurious than before.
• Side Luggage Basket. The same great removable basket with handles that you know from the Bugaboo Donkey2 but made bigger! Not only do you now have more space for all your things, but the Bugaboo Donkey3 basket features a built-in lining in place of the previous version’s top cover. Zip it up to keep contents safe, or tuck the top in for an open basket, as you wish.
• The Fold. Even though the Bugaboo Donkey2 had a relatively simple fold considering the stroller could convert from mono to dual, the Donkey3 seems even easier to manage.

It’s not easy to take a beloved stroller and make it even more functional, but Bugaboo has done it with the Bugaboo Donkey3, keeping the things you love while adding in improvements that are sure to make it your new favourite. 

Check out Active Baby today!