Exciting New Attractions Coming in 2026: Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

As we approach the New Year, excitement grows for the most anticipated theme park attractions of 2026. Among them, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift at Universal Studios Hollywood stands out as an early favorite for the best new coaster in the United States. This impressive ride, developed by Intamin, has been undergoing tests (without riders) for several weeks, leading to heightened expectations for its opening soon after the start of 2026.

The Thrill of Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift promises to be a thrilling experience with a top speed of 72 mph, making it the fastest coaster at any Universal theme park globally. Set against a backdrop themed around street racing, the ride features an exhilarating trajectory stretched over 4,100 feet of track that winds through the hills between the park’s Upper and Lower Lots. A unique element of the ride is its path, which even crosses over the Starway escalators—a feature that adds an extra layer of excitement.

What to Expect from the Ride Experience

A key question surrounding Hollywood Drift is the drifting effect on the coaster. Will riders feel the rush of lateral Gs pushing them through the curves, or will it be reminiscent of traditional spinning coasters? Until the attraction opens to the public, speculation will continue. However, Intamin’s recent collaborations with Universal have yielded remarkable results, such as the Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure. These attractions effectively blend roller coaster thrills with engaging storytelling, raising hopes for Hollywood Drift to similarly impress.

Southern California’s Coaster Renaissance

If Hollywood Drift meets expectations, it might become the first global top 10 coaster to emerge from Southern California in years. Local coaster enthusiasts have yearned for a world-class roller coaster experience since Twisted Colossus launched at Six Flags Magic Mountain a decade ago. Hollywood Drift would not only fulfill this void but also mark a milestone for Universal Studios Hollywood, which has traditionally shied away from offering "grown-up" outdoor roller coasters.

For coaster fans nationwide, a world-class attraction in Southern California is long overdue. The anticipation surrounding Hollywood Drift adds a sense of revival to the local amusement park scene, promising to elevate the experience for thrill-seekers.

Stay Updated with Theme Park News

To keep up with the latest developments in theme parks and attractions, be sure to sign up for Theme Park Insider’s weekly newsletter. This valuable resource provides updates on new openings, rides, and park announcements, ensuring you’re always in the loop regarding upcoming attractions like Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift.

Conclusion

Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift is poised to become one of the most talked-about attractions as 2026 approaches. With its anticipated speed, innovative design, and strong pedigree from Intamin, it’s no wonder that this ride is generating significant buzz. Whether or not it meets the lofty expectations set by industry insiders and enthusiasts alike remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Hollywood Drift is a thrilling prospect for the future of roller coasters in the United States.

Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable ride experience at Universal Studios Hollywood!