Last Update: 15 October 2025
The 2022 Polaris Slingshot R is yes, a three-wheeler and – unlike anything else you’ll ride in or drive. It’s fun, exciting and a genuine experience of sporty-driven power. No matter where you steer the Slingshot R, life and the road around you – smiles back!
Slingshot R – Classification All Its Own
Once you strap on your helmet the Slingshot R promises a good time. The interior is more carlike having a keyless ignition, foot pedals, and leather-wrapped steering wheel. It’s packed with features like Apple CarPlay, Ride Command infotainment system and navigation – and a topnotch Rockford Fosgate audio system that gets the jam going!
This Polaris Slingshot R defies classification, so I encourage you to not ask the question “is it a motorcycle or is it a car?” Built by Polaris, the same folks that build Indian Motorcycle, RZR’s, Timbersled, and all other brands in their off-road, snow and marine segments. The Slingshot launched in 2014 and was available to the public in 2015. Every year since, the Slingshot evolves to state of the art performance and features. The three-wheeled two-seater is a product which has drawn from the resources of Polaris’s expert engineering experiences in their off-road ATVs and on-road motorcycles. All this adds up to creating this distinctive high-performance two-seater!
Perfectly Named
It was James Holroyd, Polaris Slingshot Engineer and team who first loaded it with a GM 2.4L Ecotec engine- found in many Chevy’s, Buick, Saturn, GM, and Pontiac models – and remained through 2019 in the Polaris Slingshot. In 2020 Polaris developed their own Polaris ProStar Engine that in this 2022 Slingshot R version produces 203 hp (151 kW) at 8250 RPM and 144 lb-ft (195 N•m) of torque at 6500 RPM. It is driven with a steering wheel whose power is transmitted to a huge 30-inch rear wheel (tire size: 305 / 30R20) by a carbon-fibre-reinforced belt final drive – a slingshot of a shape so to speak!
Polaris Slingshot R, Three-Wheeled Powerhouse Packed With Fun!
The Slingshot Autocycle
The Slingshot is defined by Polaris as an autocycle. And by this definition, it need not meet automotive safety or emissions regulations. An autocycle in theory doesn’t require a motorcycle licence to operate. However, depending on the jurisdiction, you might need to require one or some training to become insured. A helmet in most cases is required. Even if your district doesn’t require a helmet, wear one. The cockpit is open, and a helmet provides comfort, confidence, and protection. Plus, if you’re caught in the rain, without a Slingshot hood (super cool add-on feature!) – you’ll be better equipped to see the road around you.
The Slingshot R Ride
It’s comfortable, low the ground and when accelerating from a stop you feel those 203 horses driving through to the rear wheel! When accelerating to expressway speeds – it just takes but a few seconds to reach the speed limit, 100 kph (0-60 MPH 4.9 seconds).
The Slingshot’s light – less than 750 kg (1,653 lb) curb weight and its proximity to the ground indeed makes you feel like being launched from a catapult! The brakes are high quality Brembo Aluminium four piston in the front, with 339 mm diameter vented discs. These I noted require conscious pressure to provide slowing and an eventual full stop. If you are experienced in a powersports vehicle (RZR, ATV, 4 x 4, etc.) – you’ll find them familiar. But if not, it will be important to become acquainted with the level of “push pressure” required.
My advice is, stop trying to slot the Slingshot R into a category and simply accept it for what it is!
AutoDrive and Paddle Shifters
The Slingshot R I tested here was not available in manual (standard) which is generally my preference. However, it was fitted with AutoDrive plus paddle shifters (located on the steering wheel). This meant I had the option to take over from the AutoDrive system in brief circumstances – which was great! And the AutoDrive certainly had its advantages particularly during busy road environments – allowing me more freedom to fully focus on the road around me.
I did take over the upshifts and downshifts with the paddle shifters namely during acceleration while cornering. The AutoDrive shifted up too early in some cases and I discovered after becoming better acquainted, that I preferred earlier shift patterns. The great thing was that when I’d take over with the paddles, at any given moment if I decided not to continue with my controlled shifts, the AutoDrive kicked in – very intuitive. AutoDrive is always there as a great back up. I recommend having the paddle shifters included in the automatic – AutoDrive version.
When you’re out in your Polaris Slingshot R strangers will wave at you, ask questions, and take the Slingshot’s picture. Even the fuel stops take extra time because of all the attention it attracts! On every ride, the Slingshot R was a show stopper drawing out the smartphone cameras from passers-by of all types! And in this gorgeous colour combo of Pacific Teal Fade and Red, is truly a jaw dropping three-wheeled “auto-cycle”.
High-Velocity
The doorless Polaris Slingshot R is all about extremes! It will not rumble, roar, or growl. No, you’ll believe you’re in a jet. Within certain power ranges and engine speeds a harmonic “super sonic” sound whistles through the air. It feels spaceship-like adding to the unique ride-sensation.
And yes, as said earlier, you’ll want a helmet for all the benefits the Slingshot R experience offers – even if legally not required. At speed, the low windshield – though it does the trick to deflect wind – will have you feeling the breeze! The Slingshot R cabin is entirely open. You’ll experience wind buffeting around you at anything above city limits. And those city gusts caused by skyscrapers will be noticed and be sure to tie down anything light-weighted!
Three Slingshot Models for 2022
There are three Slingshot models to choose from in 2022, the SL, the SLR and the R. The key differences is the SLR and the R are the bumped-up models regarding features, and horse power.
New Features for 2022 |
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2022 Slingshot R AutoDrive Fitted Fast Facts
Engine: A 2.0L 4cyl Polaris ProStar engine delivering 203 hp (151 kW) at 8250 RPM and 144 lb-ft (195 N•m) of torque at 6500 RPM; tremendous for a vehicle weighing just 750 kilograms (1,653 pounds). That power is transferred to the 30-inch rear wheel by a carbon-fibre-reinforced belt, and driver controls the transmission with the paddle five-speed manual gearbox partnered with the Slingshot Autodrive.
Chassis: Go easy over the speed bumps and watch your front curb parking. The vehicle’s low to the ground, and wide at 197 centimetres (77.6 inches) across. The engineers share that this maintains its low centre of gravity. The high-strength-steel frame additionally enhances stability with the result bringing you to completely forget you’re not on four wheels!
Suspension: With so much power, the Slingshot R needs a suspension that can handle turns. Its gas-filled shocks, forged aluminium, double-wishbone suspension up front, and a hollow, cast-aluminium swing arm in the rear ensure it rides comfortably. An anti-roll bar, which links the wheels to the chassis, keeps the car flat in the corners, so there’s minimal roll.
Wheels: Engineers equipped each wheel with anti-lock brakes, traction control, and electronic stability control. The low-profile performance tires maximise the Slingshot’s grip.
Insurance: One of my insurance brokerages does NOT insure the Slingshot. My other broker does and informed me that in Ontario it is insured as a motorcycle- no motorcycle licence needed but definitely your full G (automobile class). So again, the rules are dependant on your jurisdiction. Do the homework before you buy.
Room To Go!
There’s ample lockable storage in the Slingshot R. Twin compartments with the passenger compartment slightly smaller. These are both hidden behind the seats. Either one are perfectly sized for a helmet and cargo. For a solo rider there’s ample space for weekend getaways. And I found you can tuck stowage in the outer cockpit, behind each seat and under the seats as well.
In Case You’re Wondering, Slingshot VS. Can-Am Spyder
Many motorcyclists I encountered thought the Slingshot was like the Can-Am Spyder. I think namely because each have three-wheels. Then some referred to the T-REX (Canadian born) and indeed looks like the Slingshot- again being it had three-wheels. I’m not familiar, nor have ever seen a T-REX, but as I’ve tested both the Slingshot and the Can-Am Spyder and they are very different! The Slingshot is driven and the Spyder is ridden. The other points I’ve listed below:
Polaris Slingshot:
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Can-Am Spyder:
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Favourite Slingshot R Features |
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Slingshot R Points for Safety and Awareness
LOW TO THE GROUND: The Slingshot is low you’ll want to ensure you’re seen. I feel a properly trained motorcycle rider will have the strategies to increase visibility, where a driver who is not a motorcyclist, is best to ramp up those defensive driving skills. Being the Slingshot does catch the eye of most on the road around you, it’s still a best practise to be aware of this.
REAR VIEW: You really can’t see much behind you so setting up the left and right-side mirrors is crucial. The rear-view camera is handy when backing up. But in traffic you can only see a portion of the top of the vehicle behind you in the rear-view mirror.
AIRBAGS: The Slingshot has none- it is not an automobile. Wear your helmet, your seat belt, and a sturdy jacket.
Wrap Up: Yes!
The Slingshot R is an absolute blast to drive! Thrilling, sexy, comfortable, solid, and uniquely designed! And I love that I can share the experience easily with friends. You will not “fly under the radar” in the Slingshot R. If you like attention, the Slingshot R is definitely the ticket. Be careful leaving it un-attended. When I parked and went to a nearby cafe or coffee stop, I’d return to find strangers posing for a selfie against it. I really couldn’t blame them – it’s gorgeous!
Is it a car – or a motorcycle with an extra wheel? My advice is to stop trying to slot it into a category! Accept the Slingshot R for what it is – a unique powersports vehicle unlike any other!
Who Is the Slingshot For? Certainly the thrill-seeking drivers who want something sporty at one-third the price of a Lamborghini! And maybe, just way more fun! You’ll need to sort out where you’ll park it – garage or underground. Though I see some owners park it out in the open in their home driveway, covered. Polaris do sell a specific cover for the Slingshot at +/-$600.
Expect nothing less than thrills and entertaining social encounters wherever you go in the Slingshot R! Its pleasures are a unique recipe of thrilling sensations and pure driving satisfaction!
So, grab your helmet, a friend, and go have fun!
2022 Slingshot R Photo Gallery
Tips Worth The Mention
- Go for night rides! The interior blue (or white) LED floor lights add unique ride ambience.
- On fuel ups, leave the fuel cap on your seat so you won’t leave it behind. (There will be many distractions at every fuel stop from curious onlookers!)
- When you own a Slingshot, prepare to sacrifice all anonymity. Your family, neighbours, strangers, police, etc. will be watching.
- Always go for the 91 Octane fuel or higher.
- Accelerate easily over gravel – the back tire tends to spin; same for wet surfaces/rain.
- Learn the ease of acceleration; I happened to lay a stretch of rubber from the rear tire at the beginning of my test ride (at each red-light-turned-green). I started to understand the hp after more experience with the Slingshot R and the ease of moving off from a stop.
- Extra care during the day to be seen, especially on expressway roads during rush hour. Use lane strategies, space cushions, etc.
- Ensure your blind spot checks at every lane change or turn.
- Expect surrounding vehicles to target fixate – the Slingshot is a rarity! But this results in potentially drifting into your lane.
- Purchase your Slingshot R in a bright colour such as the Pacific Teal Fade shown here. Not only is it stunning, you’ll be highly seen. That’s important when you are in heavy traffic and surrounded by transport trucks.
- Don’t bother purchasing the special seat belt clip for your dog. The seat belt is managed from the middle of the Slingshot (unlike from the driver left or passenger right in a car) making this of no use to keeping your four-legged buddy safe in the seat. I fastened his leash around my waste with controlled free-play during his ride. Oh – he loved rides in the Slingshot R!
- You’ll get wet when driving in the rain.
- Consider what you wear as mud from the road, and debris will flick up from the front wheels and from other vehicles such as trucks. This can’t be helped. I spent some time wiping mud from my textile jacket and the lovely Slingshot R seats.
- Mods/Modifications are a thing! Yes, there are numerous accessories by Polaris and companies like “Slingmods” to completely customise your Slingshot! I’m liking the TricLED Magic Tric Chaser LED Wheel Light Kit with Brake & Turn Signal Integration!
- Five Things to Bring Every Ride: Rain suit, spare helmet, sunscreen (you are fully exposed), bottle of water for those long periods in bumper-to-bumper traffic, extra money for fuel- you’ll be chalking up the kilometres! Gas prices were are an all time high when I tested the Slingshot R. Each fill up costs me +/- $60.CAD with just around 200kms to the tank.
2022 Slingshot R Specifications: |
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Features and Warranty: |
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ADD ONS: Excursion Roof; Taller Windscreen
PRICE: The 203bhp Slingshot R is $42,149 CAD (Manual); $44,649 CAD (AutoDrive).
For more information or to find a dealer near you, visit the Polaris Slingshot website.
