An innovative group of engineers from American powersports company Polaris built a unique vehicle prototype in 2010. This three-wheeled (two up front, one in back), open-cockpit machine looked like a small race car and generated enough interest that it was embraced and introduced as a production model in 2015. The Slingshot is now a decade into its history and continues to gain popularity across the country.
One of the advantages of a Polaris Slingshot over its two-wheeled kin is that in most states all you need to pilot one is a driver’s license as opposed to specialized motorcycle permitting. With a steering wheel and pedals that feel very similar to a car’s, a Slingshot is easy to drive and it’s an absolute blast.
Beyond the fun quotient, the Slingshot can be wildly practical. Smart storage space, streamlined size, and versatility are all benefits of this vehicle, and it offers much more than head-turning looks. Consider these options as you think about whether a Slingshot is right for you:
1. You Can Park The Slingshot In Tiny Parking Spaces
Leave the giant SUV at home and take the Slingshot to run errands in the city. At 12.5 feet long, the Slingshot takes up slightly less space than a diminutive Mazda Miata. When you’re looking for a parking spot and the only ones you see are wedged between a wide sedan riding one the line and a three-row family vehicle on the other, a Slingshot can slide right in.
Plus, it’s easy to drive forward and backward, which makes it easy to squeeze into a parallel spot with no drama.
2. Slingshot: Enough Storage Space For A Grocery Run
Now, I’m not saying you should head off to Costco for super-sized packs of paper towels. However, the Slingshot is great for quick trips to the store to pick up a gallon of milk, a 12-pack of soda, and all the ingredients you need for a few meals. Storage bins behind each seat can hold a surprising volume of goods, and if you’re traveling alone you can also strap a few bags into the passenger seat.
Need even more hidey-holes for your stuff? Polaris created a whole line of accessories especially for the Slingshot, like dashboard bags and center console bags to keep your purse, wallet, sunglasses, and snacks secure.
3. Open-Air Slingshot Cruising On Three Wheels
Motorcycles offer that coveted wind-in-your-hair feeling, and so does the Slingshot. The Polaris three-wheeler, starting at $24,999, is a great alternative to two-wheeling for those who are nervous about motorcycles or don’t want to go through the hassle and cost of getting a motorcycle license.
Owning one is easy, too: Every Slingshot comes with a two-year factory warranty with unlimited miles and maintenance is practical and strreamlined, with checkups every 5,000 miles.
Still considering a Slingshot? Whether you’re looking for a second vehicle, vacation home get-around machine, or just-for-fun occasional three-wheeler, the Polaris is up for city errand-running, cruising to a local restaurant, or picking up a friend for a joyride in the sun.