Driving the New Polaris Slingshot

Polaris came out with the three-wheeled Slingshot “autocycle” in 2015, and has sold over 30,000 examples since then. Now, for 2020, there’s an all-new Slingshot, and it’s even better than before.

Slingshot is a frequent sight in vacation areas, and around big events. There’s a good reason for that. Smart operators and dealerships have built up fleets of rental vehicles. Since you don’t need a special license (other than a driver’s license) or expertise, Slingshot makes for a fun runabout for a couple during a vacation. Many travelers haul their Slingshot to a vacation or resort destination, and then use it for local outings and fun rides. The all-new Slingshot will continue to be a great tool for that.

At first glance, the 2020 Slingshot isn’t radically different from the outgoing 2019 model. Each features two wheels in front/one wheel in the rear and an open cockpit with side-by-side bucket seating for two. Slingshot has an angular, futuristic look that is almost worthy of an exotic supercar – you’re going to get some attention at the gas station.

Slingshot’s frame is made from tubular steel, visible in some places on the vehicle between the bodywork. The suspension geometry and components have been enhanced for improved performance – more on that later.

There’s not a whole lot of covered storage in the cockpit – a glove compartment, center armrest, and two lockable bins behind the seats – but it’s a little smarter and easier to access than before, and there are several places to stash a cellphone or wallet. Standard keyless ignition cleans up more clutter, and gives you a cool “Start/Stop” button in the deal. The steering wheel is now multi-function, and a racy flat-bottomed model. Despite the upgrades and classier look, Slingshot’s cockpit can still be rinsed out with a hose and drained by pulling a plug in the floorboard.

Slingshot gets an all-new engine, a naturally aspirated (non-turbo) 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder multiport injected gasoline engine that is tuned to produce 180 hp/120 lb-ft of torque in SL models and 203 hp/144 lb-ft of torque in R models. The old engine, which was a GM Ecotec 2.4-liter, peaked at 173 hp and 166 lb-ft of torque.

The big news for 2020 is, for the first time, Slingshot will be available with an automatic transmission. Up until now, the only choice was a manual five-speed. Now, a new “AutoDrive” five-speed automatic (or “automated manual”) synchromesh transmission is fitted in all SL AutoDrive and R AutoDrive models. A conventional five-speed manual is still available in the R Manual model. So anybody with a license to drive a car can drive a Slingshot.

I gear up for a ride in Slingshot like I would for a motorcycle ride, with a padded jacket, gloves, and a helmet with eye and ear protection. On a nice day, I’d feel safe in jeans and driving shoes or sneakers. A helmet is optional in some states – check your local regulations – but I’d recommend wearing one anyway. Not only will it be handy in the unlikely event of an accident, a full-face helmet will help protect you from flying debris, wind and noise. Find a quality helmet that fits well and that you like, and wear it on every ride.

I had the chance to drive all three Slingshot models on the road and on a closed-course racetrack, and even took a few laps in the 2019 model for comparison. The new Slingshot is faster and more maneuverable than the outgoing model. Polaris says the 2020 Slingshot can go from 0 – 60 mph in under five seconds, and that it can pull up to 1.02 g in lateral grip. With its two wheels up front and a beefy wheel in the rear, Slingshot is stable, nimble and fun to drive. The real fun of a Slingshot is riding along the road, seeking out the challenging curves, and zipping around in a cool vehicle. The ground rushes past you, increasing the sensation of speed, and the sound of the engine and throaty exhaust sends tingles up your spine. Modern electronics, including Polaris’ Ride Command system with navigation and Rockford Fosgate audio (standard on R, available on SL) provide creature comforts and convenience, though using a Bluetooth helmet audio system might make actually hearing the music easier at speed.

The new AutoDrive transmission is good on the street, though I still preferred the manual transmission on the track.

Slingshot starts at $26,499 for the SL AutoDrive. R Manual starts at $30,999, and R AutoDrive starts at $32,699. Polaris has developed an extensive line of accessories and modifications for Slingshot (Slingshot Engineered Accessories), including the Slingshade roof system (which I consider essential).

With all of the new features and engineering, the 2020 Polaris Slingshot really delivers. I still hope that you’ll learn how to operate a manual transmission for a fuller experience, but AutoDrive opens up the Slingshot experience for everyone.

Want to try out a Slingshot? Visit your local Polaris dealer for a test drive. Or even better, connect with Polaris Adventures to find an outfitter who will rent you a Slingshot in an exciting location, and can provide guides or maps for self-guided tours of the area. Search BestWestern.com for the nearest Best Western Hotels & Resorts location, and spend a weekend getting acquainted with a Slingshot.