The 2016 Polaris Slingshot is an exciting new three-wheeled motorcycle taking the automotive world by storm. With its unique design and thrilling performance, this head-turning ride will deliver an unforgettable driving experience.
Powered by a 2.4-liter EcoBoost engine sourced from Ford, the Slingshot boasts an impressive 173 horsepower while tipping the scales at a mere 1,700 pounds. This gives it a power-to-weight ratio on par with many supercars. The engine’s healthy 166 ft-lbs of torque provides blistering acceleration, rocketing the Slingshot from 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.9 seconds.
Yet despite its radical styling and performance, the Slingshot maintains composed handling thanks to its incorporated roll hoops and double-wishbone suspension. This keeps the ride feeling planted and controlled when cornering hard or blasting down straightaways.
Exciting Exterior Styling

One look at the Polaris Slingshot is enough to see that it is no ordinary vehicle. Its futuristic exterior styling is dripping with dramatic curves and angular lines that will turn heads wherever it goes.
A Cockpit Unlike Any Other
Instead of doors, the Slingshot features a striking cockpit design entered by a sporty side pod. The absence of a complete cockpit makes entering and exiting the vehicle effortlessly easy. It enhances the open-air feel, allowing riders to experience the elements and unhindered views.
Signature Styling Cues
Several signature styling features give the Slingshot its one-of-a-kind look. These include:
- Distinctive front grille with integrated LED accent lighting
- Aerodynamic front fenders sweeping back over the wheels
- Exposed chrome-accented roll bars behind the seats
- The rear fender fades upward, ending in an integrated LED brake light
- Side pods house the sport bucket seats
With its low-slung silhouette and daring curves, the Slingshot makes a bold styling statement unlike anything else on the road.
How many wheels does the Slingshot have?
The Slingshot has three wheels – two in the front and one in the rear.
What kind of engine does the Slingshot use?
It uses a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder EcoBoost engine sourced from Ford, producing 173 horsepower and 166 ft-lbs of torque.
How fast is the Polaris Slingshot?
It can accelerate from 0-60 mph in an estimated 4.9 seconds. Its top speed is limited to 130 mph.
Is the Slingshot considered a motorcycle or car?
In most states, it is classified as a 3-wheeled motorcycle, so it does not need to meet automotive safety standards. Riders need a motorcycle license and a helmet to operate it.
Can you add doors or a roof?
Yes, Polaris offers optional zippered side curtains and gear bags that can provide some protection from the elements while maintaining the open cockpit feel. Hard doors and roofs are not available.
Innovative Cockpit and Interior
In designing the Slingshot’s cockpit, Polaris aimed for maximum comfort, connectivity, and customization. The interior provides an immersive driving experience focused entirely on the ride.
Comfort-Focused Bucket Seats
The Slingshot features deeply bolstered bucket seats to keep riders supported and comfortable on long hauls. Offering fore, aft, and recline adjustments, the seats can be tailored to accommodate drivers of nearly any size. The seats are designed to reduce fatigue, with ample lumbar support right where drivers need it most.
State-of-the-Art Infotainment
Integrated touchscreen instrumentation keeps drivers connected, providing turn-by-turn navigation, Bluetooth smartphone integration, weather updates, and more. The 7” touchscreen display is designed for effortless usability even with gloves on.
An optional Rockford Fosgate audio system pumps high-fidelity sound with a 4-speaker system and integrated rearview camera.
Endless Customization Options
The Slingshot is highly customizable with its modular rear storage system and blank canvas cockpit. Owners can easily swap out seat covers, steering wheels, shift knobs, and more to reflect their personality.
Thrilling Performance and Handling
Where the Slingshot truly shines is its exhilarating performance and handling. With a high-output engine, lightweight construction, and race-tuned suspension, this three-wheeler delivers an unforgettable ride.
Lightning-Fast Acceleration
Step on the gas, and the Slingshot leaps forward thanks to 166 ft-lbs of torque. The engine revs eagerly towards its 6,200 RPM redline while the sport-tuned exhaust note roars. In no time, the Slingshot hits 60 mph in a blistering 4.9 seconds. Open roads transform into endless acceleration runs.
Corner-Carving Handling
Don’t let its three wheels fool you – the Slingshot easily handles curves. The low center of gravity and wide track stance let it blast through corners. The sport-tuned suspension soaks up bumps while eliminating body roll, keeping the Slingshot planted.
All-Wheel ABS Brakes
When it comes time to shed speed, the Slingshot’s four-wheel anti-lock braking system provides solid and consistent braking power. Oversized front rotors and calipers allow precise modulation for trail braking into corners.
Ride-Height Adjustability
Drivers can tailor the Slingshot’s ride height by up to two inches, allowing for curvy canyon carving or highway cruising. The hydraulic suspension ensures a smooth and controlled ride at any height.
Built With Safety in Mind
While performance takes center stage, Polaris also designed proactive safety systems for the Slingshot. Owners can ride confidently, knowing they are backed by innovative safety engineering.
Protective Exoskeletal Frame
Surrounding the cockpit is the Slingshot’s rugged steel frame. This exoskeletal design shields occupants and adds torsional rigidity for confident handling.
Roll Bars and Side Pods
Integrated rollover protection bars and rigid side pods provide additional safety to occupants. The side pods are designed to shield riders while keeping them locked.
Stability Control System
The Slingshot has a vehicle stability control system to aid control in slippery conditions. This integrates traction and electronic stability control to prevent skids if the rear wheels lose grip.
LED Lighting All-Around
For improved visibility, the Slingshot employs LED accents and headlights. LED brake lights and integrated rear turn signals also enhance the Slingshot’s presence on the road.
On the Open Road
With its radical 3-wheel design, head-turning style, and thrill-ride performance, the 2016 Polaris Slingshot will make every drive feel like an adventure. Don’t just drive – rule the road in the one-of-a-kind Slingshot.
Conclusion
The 2016 Polaris Slingshot represents an exciting new entry in the world of three-wheeled motorcycles. Its head-turning futuristic styling, comfortable well-equipped cockpit, and thrilling performance make it like nothing else on the road. With its lightweight construction, high-output engine, and race-tuned suspension, the Slingshot delivers an unforgettable adrenaline-pumping ride.
Yet it retains composed handling and innovative safety engineering as well. For those seeking a joyride full of fresh air and open road, the distinctive Polaris Slingshot offers the perfect blend of radical style, comfort, and sports car-rivaling excitement. This unique three-wheeler is ready to rule the road wherever adventure calls.