Flanked between steep canyons and the ocean, Southern California’s Pacific Coast Highway is a magnet for drivers who want to exercise their supercars. And the epicenter where they gravitate to see and be seen is a stretch in Malibu that includes the trendy Nobu restaurant, the Surfrider Malibu hotel and what has been dubbed “Praia do Bilionaire”. Against this background, the latest Ferraris, McLarens and even one or two Pagani are sightings of rigueur, which means that it takes a lot to get attention. This, however, seems to be a constant occurrence, since I now participate in the parade of exotic in that same stretch. However, it is no surprise, since I am in a Polaris Slingshot 2021.
It is true that the three-wheel Polaris can be, well, polarizing. He resides in the automotive interior, not exactly a motorcycle or car, and can alienate purists in both fields who have not yet got behind the wheel. But once in the driver’s seat, even the most cynical are treated to a racing experience that is both raw and refined – the low profile and the open cab of the machine creating an extremely visceral intimacy with the road and the environment.
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After collecting glances while traveling south along the SHP, I turn left on Las Flores Canyon Road and start the serpentine climb from the foot. It is here, meandering towards the summit, that two recent enhancements to the model are presented – the AutoDrive transmission and the addition of paddle shifters, the latest being new for this year. Now, the Slingshot can be operated in fully automatic mode or drivers can choose to switch quickly and efficiently through the five gears of the hydraulically driven synchronized transmission on their own. Whether increasing gear – ideal to about 5,000 rpm – in brief climbing sections immediately or dropping to third or second gear on drop hooks, I think the answer is accurate and reflects the brand’s recent focus on increasing performance.
Launched in 2015 by the company known for its snow vehicles, the Slingshot was only available in the manual version until version 2020, when a new powertrain configuration was launched. “We had used a GM off-the-shelf engine in our original model years,” admits Polaris Slingshot vice president Chris Sergeant. “It was a great, bulletproof engine, but it didn’t quite match the vehicle’s personality. And then we developed our own two-liter four-cylinder four-cylinder cam, the Polaris ProStar, which is on the machine now. “
The sergeant continues to cite that in 2019, only 1.5 percent of cars sold had manual transmission. “The writing was on the wall,” he adds. “With our new engine, we felt it was a possibility to go in a different direction and we landed on the automated manual transmission [AMT]. “
In addition, he notes that the selection was 55 pounds lighter than the next viable option and therefore still keeps the roadster at the 1,750 pound weight limit that allows the Slingshot to be federally regulated like a motorcycle. “AMT was the best solution,” he says. “It’s mechanically simple and gives drivers who don’t understand how to use a manual the experience of a manual. . . but it’s a computer changing for you. “
According to Slingshot product manager Garrett Moore, engineering modifications result in energy delivery visibly different from previous iterations. “It will be much smoother,” he says. “It’s the same type of power range across the entire speed range, but it will feel really connected coming out of a stop or changing gears.”
The translation of steering to the road is also adjusted thanks to two steering modes – Comfort and the sportiest Slingshot – and the independent suspension in the shape of a double triangle that accurately and quickly transmits the intention to the aluminum wheels coated with Kenda rubber SS-799. Even in tight corners and sections of light gravel, the rear tire remains unexpectedly true to the line and helps to inspire more confidence than other three-wheel tires, as well as the wider track width of 69.1 inches and the longer wheelbase 105 inch long, both adding more stability.
Sure, Slingshot’s aggressive aesthetic and ABS plastic body may not appeal to everyone and don’t have the retro elegance of, say, Vanderhall Motor Works or Morgan models, but the look is a visually appealing means of transportation. Like the unmistakable style of a Lamborghini, you either love it or leave it. But the appearance aside, the vehicle conveys a sense of safety in traffic that is lacking in many of its equivalents. This is due to its overall size and presence, although it is only 5.4 inches above the ground.
The model is currently offered in four variants – S, SL, R and R Limited Edition – each offering increasing levels of standard amenities and, in the case of the R versions, an increase in power. Starting prices range from $ 19,999 to $ 32,799 depending on the finish packages selected.
After a full morning in SL, I exchange with the sergeant and take his R model for a meeting with the neighboring Encinal Canyon. High-level R increases production from 178 hp and 120 ft lbs of torque to 203 hp and 144 ft lbs of torque. It also covers zero to 60 mph in 4.9 seconds and has a limited top speed of 125 mph.
Although the R comes standard with AutoDrive, this example is equipped with a purely manual 5-speed gearbox and is, in my opinion, the only option for those who grew up with a clutch. Not only does the control improve a lot, but the gear shift action is as smooth as a Sade soundtrack.
And when it comes to sound, the new 100-watt Rockford Fosgate Audio System – coupled with the Polaris Ride Command infotainment system with Apple CarPlay – is robust enough to fill the cab, despite competing harmonics from the engine and airflow to the around. Add to that the optional seats with integrated heating and cooling, and the interior makes longer trips a surprisingly seductive proposition.
Also attractive are the eye-catching exterior trim selections that debut this year, including seven more detail colors and, for the R, a multicolored Neon Fade and black emblem. Targeting new enthusiasts and veteran motorcyclists looking for a more reclining alternative, the 2021 Polaris Slingshot launches the three-wheeler market in innovation and acceptance – all while drawing a lot of attention along the way.
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