Well, this is awkward—for once, the internet doesn’t seem mad at Disney.

Test Track 3.0 is officially here (well, almost—officially reopening July 22), and the early buzz from previews has taken a shocking turn: most people love it. If you’re used to seeing every new Disney attraction get immediately picked apart online, this might feel like uncharted territory. But somehow, against the odds, Disney managed to refurbish a fan-favorite ride… and actually deliver something that seems to satisfy casual guests and longtime EPCOT lovers alike.

A nighttime view of Spaceship Earth inside of EPCOT at Disney World.
Credit: Disney

Let’s break down why this is a rare W for Disney—and why the usual crowd of critics might be a little quieter than usual.

Test Track’s Fresh New Look (and Feel)

The reimagined Test Track, now presented once again by General Motors, leans hard into the ride’s original roots with a tribute to EPCOT’s World of Motion. But don’t expect a slow-moving educational exhibit. This version is sleek, futuristic, and faster than ever—blending the past and present in a way that doesn’t feel forced.

The updated ride vehicle looks sharp with black paint and blue accents, and the new on-ride photo features a glowing cityscape with flying cars. It’s one of those visual updates that makes the whole thing feel modern again, even though the track layout itself hasn’t changed much.

Two sleek, blue Chevrolet cars on Test Track at EPCOT.
Credit: Disney

What’s Gone—And Why Some Fans Are Still Complaining

Let’s address the one elephant in the garage: the “design your own car” section in the queue is gone. For Test Track 2.0 fans, this was a unique part of the experience, letting you create a virtual vehicle and see how it performed on the track. That feature’s disappearance has drawn some groans.

But here’s the thing—most of the feedback suggests that what Disney added in its place actually feels more polished and purposeful. The queue now guides you through a futuristic auto showcase with nods to engineering innovations, materials of the future, and vehicle design. It’s a cleaner presentation, more in line with what EPCOT was always meant to be.

The Alpine Smell and EPCOT Nostalgia

That’s right—Test Track 3.0 introduces a pine scent during a scenic alpine driving simulation. It’s one of those tiny Imagineering touches that park regulars obsess over, and it’s already drawing comparisons to the cult-favorite smells of Spaceship Earth and Soarin’.

Another nostalgia button that’s getting pressed? The soft instrumental version of It’s Fun to Be Free—a callback to World of Motion. EPCOT fans who have been waiting for Disney to respect the park’s heritage may finally feel seen.

A Smooth Ride That’s Actually… Smooth?

Let’s be real: Disney hasn’t exactly batted 1.000 with recent ride openings or updates. From long downtime to polarizing changes (like Splash Mountain-to-Tiana Bayou’s Adventure rework), there’s usually some drama. But Test Track 3.0? It’s actually been smooth.

Preview riders have noted how effective the dome projections are, how immersive the new scenes feel, and how the ride’s outdoor speed loop still delivers the thrills fans expect. The updates feel like they elevated the entire attraction’s narrative without messing with the core formula.

Test Track reimagined concept art
Credit: Disney

Final Thoughts: Disney Needed This Win

Look, there are plenty of valid criticisms to lob at Disney lately. Prices are up, park reservations have frustrated guests, and the company has struggled to balance nostalgia with innovation. But this? This feels like a rare “win” that most people agree on.

If you’ve been one of those voices loudly skeptical of Disney’s direction, it might be time to take a deep breath—because based on everything we’ve seen and heard so far, Test Track 3.0 is a solid step in the right direction. And for Disney fans who’ve been desperate to see EPCOT get some love without the controversy? This one’s for you.

The post Disney Haters Are NOT Going To Be Happy With New Test Track appeared first on Inside the Magic.

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