Pros: Engaging to Drive, Unique Design, Sharp Handling, Customizable
Cons: Limited Storage, Minimal Safety Features, Weather Exposure, Not Ideal for Daily use
Oh Look, it’s the Batmobile! Or is it a motorcycle? Or a convertible? Actually, it’s the 2026 Polaris Slingshot R and it is certainly a head turner. Pulling up to any event in one of these is going to be an instant conversation starter. On several occasions I had friends and acquaintances googled Slingshot after seeing me around town in one. Despite being around for 10 years, the Polaris Slingshot is still an obscure vehicle for many. It’s a one-of-a-kind open-door 3-wheel vehicle that is part motorcycle and part car. It rolls into its 10th year of production for 2025 with a redesigned front end, improved drivability, updated audio, and other personalization enhancements.
The Slingshot is available in four grades known as S, SL, SLR, and R. All models come with a ProStar 2.0l four-cylinder engine tuned to varying horsepower and torque outputs depending on the grade. S and SL models will deliver 180 horsepower with 128 lb-ft of torque while SLR and R models get a slight increase to 204 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. All trims come standard with a 5-speed manual transmission. An optional AutoDrive transmission is available, offering a hydraulically actuated automated manual system with paddle shifters for a more intuitive and smoother driving experience.
Prices start at $24,999 for a manual Slingshot S or $26,849 for the AutoDrive. At the top end is the Slingshot R which starts at $34,999 for a manual or $37,149 for the AutoDrive. I spent two weeks with a Nightfall Slingshot R Manual and here’s what stood out…
Exterior Style:
At its core, the Slingshot’s styling is all about sharp angles, aggressive lines, and a low-slung, road-hugging stance. The exposed front wheels, wide track, and sculpted body panels give it a motorsport-inspired look that turns heads wherever it goes. The open cockpit layout and lack of a roof or doors reinforce its motorcycle roots, while the wide, planted rear end communicates stability and performance.
The Slingshot R features a fully painted front fascia complemented by a lower splitter, giving it a cohesive and menacing appearance. New for 2025, the addition of a Vented Sport Hood not only enhances its aggressive look but also improves aerodynamics and cockpit airflow. Owners can also choose to add color-matched and customizable styling to the upper front end with the accent panel that is standard on R models. Also available are new painted front and outer fascia kits for even further personalization.
Five separate slim LED lights accent the aggressive front end with the Polaris emblem sitting prominently at the front of the hood. All trims include LED headlights and taillights, with upper trims gaining more elaborate lighting signatures. LED accent panels and underglow options are available, especially for those looking to personalize the vehicle further.
The Slingshot R is equipped with new 5-spoke honeycomb machined wheels wrapped in 225/45R18 performance tires in the front and paired with a larger 305/30R20 rear tire. This combination not only enhances its aggressive appeal but also contributes to improved performance and handling. Overall, this is a vehicle that makes a statement and surely does not blend into the crowd.
Custom Roof Protection
For added comfort and sun protection, drivers can choose to add an Excursion Top to their ride and further customize their Slingshot by selecting one of three canvas color options. The Excursion Top Canvas is available with black, gray, or red Slingshot branding to match or contrast with the Slingshot’s overall design. Drivers can also choose a Slingshade to stay protected from the elements without sacrificing style. The Slingshade features vertical opening T-Top panels with friction hinge technology and superior fit and finish. Designed to seamlessly integrate, it boasts sleek lines and automotive-grade finishes, perfectly color-matched to your Slingshot or customizable with more than 30 colors to pick from.
Powertrain
The 2025 R model is equipped with a 2.0L ProStar engine delivering 204 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque, providing a slight increase over the previous year's figures. This engine is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission which in my opinion is the best way to experience a vehicle like this. However, an optional AutoDrive system with paddle shifters is available if you prefer. I wasn’t sure what to expect the first time getting behind the wheel, but was pleasantly surprised by the open-air thrill it provides. It’s powerful enough to accelerate from 0-60 MPH in approximately 4.9 seconds. It has plenty of power to keep up with traditional four-wheeled vehicles on the road and I was even comfortable enough zipping past them on the highway. Although, I will say cruising on a suburban highway filled with trucks was a bit intimidating in a vehicle like this. I much preferred more open roads or cruising around the suburbs to congested highways.
The Slingshot is built on a tube-frame chassis with a double-wishbone front suspension and coil-over shocks at all three corners. It maintains a low center of gravity which contributes to its stability and agile handling. It zips around corners with ease and feels so stable that you’ll forget there’s only one wheel in back. On winding roads, it feels nimble and confident, and its wide front track adds stability. There’s minimal body roll thanks to a firm suspension setup and stiff chassis. The electric-assist power steering provides quick and responsive feedback further enhancing the driver's connection to the road. Steering is direct and it’s easy to maneuver. The R model features Brembo four-piston calipers with 13.3-inch front rotors that offer strong stopping power and are well-paired to this vehicle.
Manual Transmission
Shifting through gears is easy and allows for optimal control to manage traction, especially since the rear wheel can break loose under power. The clutch has a medium weight and predictable engagement point, making it relatively easy to modulate. It's not overly stiff, and it delivers decent feedback, although it doesn’t feel quite as refined as modern sports cars. The throws are short and direct, though not buttery smooth. It has a notchy but precise feel that I found satisfying. Keep in mind that it is a basic 5-speed with no rev-matching tech or drive-mode customization that drivers may be used to in modern performance cars with 6 or 7 speeds. If you want the purest, most connected driving experience in the Polaris Slingshot R, the 5-speed manual is definitely the way to go. It’s not refined, but it suits the Slingshot’s raw and playful personality. For enthusiasts who enjoy driver involvement, the manual is a big part of the Slingshot’s charm.
Ride Quality
The Slingshot R's suspension is tuned for performance, which can result in a firm ride, especially on rough or uneven surfaces. It comes across a bit harsh on bumps as the priority is control over comfort. The lack of a traditional roof or doors exposes occupants to significant wind and road noise, which should be expected. Depending on your location, a helmet may be required and is recommended for safety. It feels more like a refined go-kart on the streets and was a blast for short trips around town. I’m not sure I’d want to take it on an extended journey across country, but nor do I think that’s what it’s built for. The Slingshot is not forgiving, it is a machine that requires your attention and rewards active, engaged driving.
Interior
Hopping inside is more literal in the Slingshot as there are no doors and you must climb over the sides. It seats two passengers, and the Slingshot R specifically is equipped with sport-oriented seats that offer increased side bolsters and lumbar support to provide enhanced comfort and stability. There is plenty of headroom with the open air and the seats are adjustable to accommodate for optimal legroom as well. The interior features cut-and-sewn upholstery that give it a higher quality feel. The cockpit is also designed to be water-resistant, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance, after all there is no roof. Storage is minimal with only a lockable glovebox and behind each seat storage. The combined storage volume is approximately 3.8 cubic feet, which is suitable for essentials like a helmet, small bags, or groceries, but not for larger items.
Technology
New for 2025, Polaris Slingshot introduces larger, eight-inch speakers for the left and right interior side panels delivering crisper sound quality to counteract road and vehicle noise with increased volume and more bass. The new Stage 2 Max Audio Package by Rockford Fosgate is standard on 2025 SLR and R models and available as an accessory upgrade for Slingshots model year 2021 and newer.
Base Slingshot S models come standard with Technology Package 1, which includes Rockford Fosgate audio with 2.7” display, security package with a passive security system and rear storage locks. SL and up models come standard with a 7” display powered by RIDE COMMAND and the larger 200w Rockford Fosgate sound system
Also available on the R is RIDE COMMAND+ R for a 1-year free subscription. This platform provides connected features like GPS turn-by-turn navigation, Vehicle Health, Vehicle Locator, Apple CarPlay and more. CarPlay integration was smooth and worked well although there is no good place to put your mobile device. Overall tech is minimal but fills the basic needs.
Driver Assistance / Safety
The 2025 Polaris Slingshot R incorporates a few advanced safety features designed to enhance driver control and stability. While it does not include traditional automotive safety elements such as airbags or crumple zones, it offers a suite of electronic systems aimed at improving on-road safety. Standard features include Anti-lock Braking System, Traction Control System, Electronic Stability Control, Hill Hold Assist, Cruise Control, and LED Lighting.
Final Statement
The Polaris Slingshot is raw fun. It’s built to perform and is engaging to drive, especially with the 5-speed manual. The Slingshot is an instant conversation starter and draws attention wherever you go. Its compact size makes it easy to park, store, and zip around town in. If you’re looking for something a little different for some summer fun in the Midwest, then you should visit a Polaris dealer and take one out for a spin. This would make a great addition to any enthusiasts’ garage.
