2021 Polaris Slingshot is its own animal

Say hello to the 2021 Slingshot, the latest version of Polaris' unmistakable three-wheeler.

For 2021, Polaris retuned the Slingshot's available AutoDrive automated manual gearbox and added paddle shifters, updates that were badly needed.

If you happened to buy last year's model with the AutoDrive gearbox, Polaris dealers will provide a software reflash free of charge to smooth it out, but you'll still have to pay extra for the paddles.

The Slingshot was about 70% new for the 2020 model year. You can spot the new ones most easily by their LED lighting.

The Slingshot's cabin was comprehensively updated last year, including a new flat-bottomed wheel with higher-quality feel, richer-feeling materials and so on. Even still, because this cabin has to remain weatherproof, it doesn't feel like the same quality as an automobile.

Rear visibility would be a challenge without the rearview camera.

Since last year, the Slingshot has been powered by Polaris' in-house designed Prostar, a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four cylinder.

Available in two states of tune, lower-end models generate 178 horsepower and 120 pound-feet of torque, while higher-end Slingshot R models get 203 hp and 144 lb-ft.

For 2021, Polaris made Apple CarPlay available, along with a louder Rockford-Fosgate audio system and new light kits.

That 20-inch rear Kenda tire is going to be busy back there...

A new hill-hold feature is a welcome update to the AutoDrive gearbox, as well. 

A five-speed manual is still standard. If you aren't stuck in traffic all the time and you know how to operate a three-pedal gearbox, it remains the Slingshot's transmission of choice -- it's smoother, cheaper, simpler and more fun to drive.

Keep clicking or scrolling for dozens of additional images of the 2021 Polaris Slingshot.