2020 Polaris Slingshot hides new heart under its crazy skin

Despite looking very similar to its predecessor, this 2020 Polaris Slingshot is a borderline all-new proposition.

Beneath that crazy robot lobster exterior lies a revised chassis brandishing a new engine and transmission.

For folks who can't drive a manual, there's even a new gearbox dubbed AutoDrive.

A single-plate, dry-clutch automated manual, it's not as refined as a traditional automatic, but it gets the job done.

Business in the front, party in the back. (That's a fat 20-inch Kenda SS-799 tire back there, sized 255/35.)

The new Slingshot features a slightly lighter curb weight and improved weight distribution.

There are a lot of custom parts and color options, including this faux Gulf livery. Hope you like being the center of attention...

Steering, suspension and brakes have all been comprehensively reworked, which is great news, because driving the old Slingshot never managed to live up to its crazy looks.

The 2020 Slingshot features a Polaris-built 2.0-liter four-cylinder dubbed "Prostar."

The naturally aspirated engine is good for between 180 and 203 horsepower. The lower-powered SL trim also generates 120 pound-feet of torque (at 5,500 rpm) and the uplevel R delivers 144 pound-feet (at 6,500 rpm).

The Slingshot's cabin has been totally reworked and features materials that are closer to automotive grade.

Ergonomics are improved, as is display quality.

The cabin is one of the Slingshot's most-improved areas for 2020, and not a moment too soon.

A simple center stack features a touchscreen with improved graphics.

The gauge cluster features an improved multi-function display, too.

A good-quality backup camera is a welcome addition, as rear visibility is very limited.

You'll be able to spot the new Slingshot on the street by its opposing-arrowhead array of LED daytime running lamps.

Keep clicking or scrolling for dozens more shots of the new 2020 Polaris Slingshot line.