Polaris Slingshot Insurance

In 2014, Polaris introduced the Slingshot, a genre-busting three-wheeler with side-by-side bucket seats, automobile-style control layout, and an inline-four engine that makes 173-203 horsepower in stock trim, depending on the model year and trime level — solid punch for a machine weighing just 1650 pounds wet. As of 2024, the Slingshot is classified as an “autocycle” in 49 states,and only Massachusetts requires a motorcycle license to operate one, though helmet laws vary by state.

“The Polaris Slingshot makes people smile, and more importantly, it makes me smile. In a world that rarely brings joy, the Slingshot delivers. Sometimes that’s enough.” -Motor Authority

Given the uniqueness of the Slingshot in the powersports market — even the Can-Am Spyder is a far cry in terms of design and function — it isn’t surprising that insurance rates vary widely from one company to the next…in fact, when the Slingshot debuted in 2015, only a handful of companies would even insure it!

Today, the Slingshot is on the radar of most major insurers, but you still need to shop around so as not to end up paying more than you could or should.

Polaris Slingshot Insurance Rates

As you probably know, it’s difficult to estimate insurance rates for anyone, no matter the vehicle, as they vary so much based on age, location, driving history, coverage options, marital status, credit score, etc. That said, the general consensus seems to be $25-50 per month, but there are lots of exceptions. We surveyed some real Slingshot owners to find out what they’re paying.

• Male, 53 / IL / Country Financial: $396 / year
• Male, 40 / MN / Nationwide: $417 / year ($1000 deductible)
• Male, 40+ / IA / Farm Bureau: $500 / year ($250 deductible)
• Male, 53 / KY / Markel: $652 / year ($1000 deductible)
• Male, 36 / OR / Nationwide: $666.53 / year ($1000 deductible)
• Female, 40+ / AZ / Progressive: $949 / year ($1000 deductible)
• Male, 50+ / TX / USAA: $2436 / year ($500 deductible)
• Male, 50+ / SC / Geico: $6526 / year (Highest we’ve seen)

As you can see, rates vary widely, and not just from owner to owner, but from company to company. This new Slingshot owner, 28 years old and a Phoenix native, got the following five quotes for one auto and his Slingshot:

• Farm Bureau: $373 a year with 100/300 both, $2,000 medical, $500 deductible
• State Farm: $980 a year with same as above and $1000 deductible
• Nationwide: $1,412 a year with same as above and $1000 deductible
• Markel: $1,200 Slingshot only with same as above and $1000 deductible
• Progressive: $4,000

As you can see, it’s vitally important to compare quotes from a few reputable insurers to make sure you don’t end up paying too much year after year. Fortunately, we can help.

Slingshot Model History

The original 2015-2019 Slingshots featured a 2.4L GM Ecotec inline-four engine rated at 173 horsepower at 6200 rpm and and 166 foot-pounds of torque. Owners loved the powerplant for its long service history, parts availability, and reputation for reliability. On the other hand, some drivers felt it didn’t rev high enough or have quite the sporting character they’d like in such a vehicle.

In 2020, Polaris debuted the ProStar 2.0L engine, their first four-cylinder designed and built in-house. While the displacement is lower, the engine is just as powerful and revs higher. The R model engine is rated at 203 horsepower at 8250 rpm and 144 foot-pounds of torque, while the S and SL models featured a slightly detuned version that makes 178 hp at 8500 rpm.

The S and SL models feature a 20×9″ rear wheel with 255mm rubber, while the R versions boast a significantly wider 20×11″ rear wheel with a meatier 305mm rear tire. While most owners opt for the manual 5-speed transmission, a 5-speed automatic became available with the second generation models. There’s also an optional “Slingshade” wind and sun cover that acts like a detachable hardtop.

No matter the model, the emphasis here is on fun.

“The SLR is a good time—it’s the on-pavement analogue to a high-strung Polaris side-by-side utility vehicle in the dirt.” –Car & Driver

Insuring Your Slingshot: What Coverage?

If you’ve financed your Slingshot, the bank or lender will almost certainly require you to have a full coverage policy on the vehicle. That means not only liability coverage, but also collision, comprehensive, and possibly an uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Though this can add up to a lot, it ensures your Slingshot is protected in case of an accident (moving or non-moving), theft, vandalism, and other issues.

While a Slingshot is arguably safer than a traditional motorcycle, it doesn’t have crumple zones or airbags, and its lowness to the ground means it isn’t the most visible vehicle on the road. For that reason, we encourage owners to carry the best coverage they can afford.

If you want to bring down your premiums, the quickest way is to increase your deductible…or see if a different company will give you the same coverage for less.

Compare Slingshot Rates and Policies

If you want the best coverage for your money, you have to shop around, comparing rates from various insurers. Fortunately, we can help. Enter your zip code to begin.