For many travelers, the choice of road-tripping vehicle is a deeply personal one. Practical folks might opt for something comfortable and amenity-rich like a minivan. Nostalgists won’t consider anything other than a VW Bus. Purists likely prefer something more stripped down, raw, and fun — an MX-5 Miata perhaps. If you fall into the latter category, allow us to introduce Polaris’ newest Slingshot. The open road is calling, and you must go.
The all-new Slingshot Grand Touring Autocycle takes the helm atop Polaris’ line-up for 2019. This trim level focuses on upgrades and updates that make the open-air Slingshot a more capable road-trip-worthy driver. The cockpit is semi-enclosed (still no doors) courtesy of a Slingshade, a removable hardtop with hinged, gullwing-style panels above the driver and passenger. The center console features a slick, 7-inch touchscreen with easy access to the backup camera, navigation system, and a robust 100-watt Rockford Fosgate audio system. The seats get an upgrade too with softer, quilted material for a more comfortable long distance ride.
The new model shares many of the best components with its Slingshot siblings. The unmistakable, angular, Batman-worthy silhouette hasn’t changed. The five-speed manual shifter and GM 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine remain. The latter produces a healthy 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque for an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
The original Slingshot joined the ranks of the world’s most audacious three-wheel rides in 2014. Like the CAN-AM Spyder and the absurd Morgan 3-Wheeler, these are vehicles that, on paper, have no business being on the road. They’re too big and powerful to qualify as go-karts, yet too fast and exposed to compare against the safety of a traditional car. But, honestly, who cares? Someone at all three manufacturers was slick and well-connected enough to sneak their concept plans past the otherwise sensible folks at the Department of Transportation to garner a “street legal” stamp of approval. We say we’re all the better for it.
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As of July 2018, the Slingshot is classified as an “autocycle” in 40 states, meaning drivers need only a standard drivers license to get behind the wheel. The remaining buzzkill states still require a motorcycle endorsement.
Polaris’ flagship model comes with a price tag that starts at just under $30,000. With the best (read essential) options like a Bilstein Shock Kit, high-performance composite rotors, Velocity street seats, and upgraded audio, the all-in cost easily tops $35,000. In true Henry Ford fashion, the Slingshot GT is available in any color you want, as long as that color is black.