Universal Studios Hollywood is throwing the brakes out the window with its wildest thrill ride yet, Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift. Officially set to open in 2026, this coaster its a massive leap forward for the park in both speed and scale.
This will be Universal’s fastest roller coaster ever, hitting a top speed of 72 mph. It’s also the biggest coaster the Hollywood park has ever built, and it. Rather than fight the park’s famously tricky terrain, the design team leaned into it. The track snakes down the hills, accelerating as it goes, like a controlled freefall with Dom Toretto-level attitude.
“Watching the progress of this incredible roller coaster come to life is truly spectacular,” said Scott Strobl, Executive Vice President & General Manager, Universal Studios Hollywood.
“2026 is just around the corner and we are equally as excited as our guests to introduce such an inspiring new ride to our theme park portfolio. ‘Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift’ will be a powerful game changer for Universal Studios Hollywood that will not only transform the topography of our destination but will infuse an entirely new level of adrenaline to our already dynamic theme park. We look forward to riding it ourselves and to welcoming guests to experience it in the very near future.”
The ride will launch from the Upper Lot, right across from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, on the former site of the special effects and animal stunt shows. Guests will start their adrenaline journey in a shady warehouse-style queue designed to mimic the film franchise’s underground garage vibes.
One of the most eye-catching features is the coaster’s ride vehicles that fully rotate 360 degrees. This innovation simulates the iconic drift action from the Fast & Furious movies, spinning riders mid-air in sync with the chaotic energy of the franchise. It’s not just fast—it feels fast.
The 4,100 feet of track includes elevated segments and plunging drops, leading to a major loop situated near the revamped Jurassic World ride. It’s an aggressive use of space and speed that’s clearly designed to keep the blood pumping from start to finish.
Universal also unveiled one of the four cars that will be used in the ride vehicles, Toretto’s legendary 1970 Dodge Charger. That car is now on display at the park, and yes, it looks ready to explode out of the gates.
Universal Studios Hollywood is kicking its theme park game into high gear. Whether you’re a thrill junkie or a Fast franchise lifer, Hollywood Drift sounds like it’s going to demand repeat rides.
