Skip to main content

Polaris’ Absurd 3-Wheel Slingshots Boast Serious Upgrades for 2021

For serious enthusiasts, driving a roadster is the purest, most exhilarating automotive experience: Top down, wind in the hair, significant other (or dog) in the passenger seat, cutting switchbacks through a nearby mountain range. Polaris knows this, which is why the company’s absurd, open-top Slingshot three-wheeler continues to offer one of the best dollar-to-fun ratios of anything on the road today. This year, the brand is introducing the most significant, across-the-board upgrades in the Slingshot’s brief, five-year history.

2020 polaris slingshot front
Polaris

At its core, the Slingshot is a purpose-built, street-legal go-kart for grown-ups. The low-slung, pared-down design can hardly be considered a “car” (in fact, it’s classified in most states as an “autocycle”), and it dispenses with the conveniences of most modern automobiles. In the five years since its debut, Polaris hasn’t upgraded the lineup much. For 2020, however, both trim levels receive substantial visual and performance enhancements.

2020 polaris slingshot side
Polaris

Across the line, a full 70% of the parts are new, including redesigned aesthetics inside and out. Both the Slingshot SL and Slingshot R are available in two new colorways: Red Pearl and Blue Steel for the former, Stealth Black and Miami Blue for the latter. Visually, the silhouette is more angular and aggressive with the addition of LED accent lighting and a 7.5-inch wind deflector.

2020 polaris slingshot interior
Polaris

Reviewers routinely knocked the interior of previous model years as cheap and uninspired, which is hardly surprising given Polaris’ roots as an ATV manufacturer. The company evidently listened, because the waterproof cockpit of the 2020 Slingshot looks better and more refined. Redesigned racing seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are fitting of a genuine sports car. Polaris has also bolstered the Slingshot’s viability as a daily driver with conveniences like a 7-inch touchscreen Ride Command system with an integrated backup camera and a full Rockford Fosgate audio setup.

2020 polaris slingshot night
Polaris

For 2020, Polaris has ditched the previous GM-sourced four-cylinder engine. Under the hood, the new entry-level Slingshot SL receives a brand new four-cylinder Polestar engine good for 178 horsepower and 122 ft-lbs of torque through an Autodrive transmission. For true enthusiasts, the Slingshot R upgrades to a sportier 203-horsepower Prostar powerplant, an optional short-throw manual transmission, and a 305mm-wide rear tire. Those figures are hardly heart-stopping until you consider that a fully tricked-out Slingshot weighs just 1,700 pounds. With the right pedal technique, the Slingshot R crushes 60 miles per hour in under five seconds.

Recommended Videos

The 2020 Polaris Slingshot lineup is available for pre-order with the Slingshot SL model starting at $26,499 and the top-of-the-line R trim basing just under $31,000.

The debut of Polaris’ revamped lineup also means deep discounts on older Slingshot models. Used versions of the brand’s Batman-worthy Polaris Slingshot Grand Touring can be had for under $30,000. Mask and cape sold separately.

Mike Richard
Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…
The 2025 BMW X7 M60i may be the sportiest full-sized SUV on the market
Driving this, you forget you're in a full-sized SUV
Front 3/4 view of a a blue BMW X7 M60i

The luxury SUV market is a little crowded these days, so sometimes it’s difficult to stand out. There’s an argument that you should play to your historic strengths if you want to succeed, and that’s likely what BMW has done with the X7 M60i SUV. The vehicle is much larger than your average Blimmer, but at its core, it has all of the qualities that BMW customers tend to appreciate.

I recently spent some time looking at BMW’s biggest SUV, which has been enhanced with an “M” package. So, before hopping in the driver’s seat, I was already expecting a good amount of comfort paired with exceptional power. This is why the X7 M60i did not disappoint on either front.
It’s very aggressive, like a tiger on a leash

Read more
Bridgestone’s new touring tire comes with an 80,000 mile warranty
Bridgestone Launches All-New Turanza EverDrive Touring Tire
bridgestones new touring tire comes with an 80000 mile warranty bridgestone turanza everdrive  3

Since we started using a set of Firehawk Indy 500 tires a few months ago, Bridgestone has really impressed us with their dedication to quality and innovation in the tire scene. This week, they’ve introduced an exciting new addition—the Turanza EverDrive touring tire, and it's backed by an incredible 80,000-mile warranty, which is their longest yet.

These tires are designed for sedans, CUVs, and minivans, and they come with some really new and useful technology. The next-generation rubber compound helps fight against uneven wear, so you can expect them to last you longer. Plus, they’ll give you a smooth and comfortable ride, perfect for all your daily adventures with or without the family.

Read more
Aston Martin and LEGO unveil their latest collaboration: the LEGO Technic Aston Martin Valkyrie
The LEGO Technic Aston Martin Valkyrie
aston martin and lego unveil their latest collaboration the technic valkyrie  astonmartinvalkyrie1

Aston Martin and the LEGO Group have teamed up to roll out an exciting new project: the LEGO Technic Aston Martin Valkyrie. This awesome set combines the high-performance vibes of Aston Martin’s incredible hypercar with the fun of LEGO building. It gives fans a chance to explore all the exciting details and cutting-edge technology that make this car so unique.

Whether you’re into cars or just love LEGO, this model promises a fun building experience that’s sure to keep you engaged. Plus, it’s part of a fun partnership with Gameloft's Asphalt Legends UNITE gaming platform, so you can race both the real Aston Martin Valkyrie and your LEGO version in the game, getting the best of both worlds.

Read more