Genesis GV60 Magma production model debuts with 650 horsepower and drift mode

Genesis has officially announced its strategic direction for the coming decade, emphasizing a focus on a new “Luxury High Performance” segmentation. The announcement took place on November 20, 2025, at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France. During this event, the automaker unveiled the production version of the GV60 Magma, a high-performance electric crossover, alongside the Magma GT Concept, a vehicle intended to serve as a roadmap for the brand’s future performance heritage and potential entry into motorsports.

The core of the announcement revolves around the Genesis GV60 Magma, which represents the brand’s first production model under the high-performance Magma banner. The vehicle is based on the existing GV60 architecture but features significant mechanical and software alterations designed to increase power output and alter handling characteristics. The manufacturer states that this model serves as a foundational step for future vehicles in the Magma lineup. The brand aims to distinguish this sub-brand by balancing high power output with ride comfort and luxury materials, rather than focusing exclusively on track times or raw intensity.

Mechanically, the GV60 Magma utilizes a dual-motor electric powertrain. The combined output of the front and rear motors is rated at 448 kilowatts, which converts to approximately 609 horsepower. The system produces a peak torque of 740 Newton-meters. The vehicle includes a “Boost Mode” function, which temporarily increases the output to 478 kilowatts, or roughly 650 horsepower, and raises peak torque to 790 Newton-meters. This mode is active for 15 seconds at a time. According to Genesis, the powertrain allows the vehicle to accelerate from a standstill to 200 kilometers per hour (124 mph) in 10.9 seconds when utilizing the Launch Control function. The stated top speed for the vehicle is 264 kilometers per hour.

To accommodate the increased power, engineers have modified the thermal management and output characteristics of the motors. The rear motor’s maximum output range has been extended to maintain consistent performance during sustained high-power driving scenarios. This modification addresses a common issue in electric performance vehicles where power delivery can taper off at higher speeds or operating temperatures.

The chassis and suspension systems have undergone revisions to differentiate the Magma model from the standard GV60. The vehicle sits 20 millimeters lower than the standard model, lowering the center of gravity. The suspension geometry has been refined, and the roll center has been recalibrated to adjust how the vehicle responds to cornering forces. The suspension setup includes Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) and End-of-Travel (EoT) control systems, which are designed to manage body movements and impact absorption. Additionally, the front suspension utilizes Hydro G-Bushings, while the rear crossmember employs dual-layer bushings. These components are intended to reduce vibration transfer into the cabin while maintaining structural rigidity.

The braking system features upgrades commensurate with the increased power output. The front axle is equipped with monoblock calipers and large-diameter discs designed to fit within the standard 21-inch wheels. The rear brakes utilize high-friction materials rated “GG,” indicating a specific coefficient of friction suitable for higher thermal loads. The wheels themselves are a Magma-exclusive forged design, shod with 275-millimeter wide tires to increase the contact patch and mechanical grip.

Exterior modifications on the GV60 Magma are largely functional, targeting aerodynamic efficiency and cooling. The vehicle features a wider body with expanded fenders to accommodate the wider track and tires. The front bumper includes a lower air intake tailored to cool the battery, motors, and brakes. Streamlined canards and air curtains are integrated to manage airflow around the front wheels. At the rear, a wing-type spoiler is mounted to generate downforce, while a newly designed rear bumper incorporates a diffuser structure to manage underbody airflow. The exterior trim utilizes a monochromatic palette with black high-gloss moldings and dark metal accents, replacing the chrome finishes found on standard Genesis models.

Inside the cabin, the GV60 Magma features materials distinct from the standard lineup. The seats, door trims, and center console are covered in Chamude, a synthetic suede-like material. The interior design incorporates bucket seats featuring body-colored backrests and double-diamond quilting patterns in Magma’s signature orange and gray color scheme. The steering wheel has been redesigned with a distinct rim shape and features dedicated buttons for drive modes and the Boost function. Despite the performance focus, Genesis claims the cabin retains high levels of noise isolation through the use of sound-insulating glass, reinforced door seals, and an Active Noise Control-Road system that generates anti-noise frequencies to cancel out road roar.

On the software front, Genesis has introduced several features specific to the Magma line. A system called Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) is included, which adjusts motor torque and regenerative braking forces to simulate the physical sensation of shifting gears in an internal combustion engine vehicle. This system works in tandem with an active sound design feature that replicates engine noises. When VGS is active, the instrument cluster displays a virtual tachometer and shift indicators.

The vehicle also features a “Drift Mode,” which alters the power distribution and the settings of the electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) to bias torque to the rear wheels, facilitating controlled oversteer. Another feature, High-Performance Battery Control (HPBC), conditions the battery pack to optimal temperatures for specific driving scenarios, such as drag racing or circuit driving. The user interface changes when “Magma Mode” is activated, switching the digital instrument cluster to a three-circle layout that prioritizes data such as motor temperature, battery temperature, acceleration forces (G-force), and lap timing.

Alongside the production GV60 Magma, Genesis revealed the Magma GT Concept. This vehicle is described as a “halo car” that outlines the future aesthetic and technological direction for the brand’s high-performance division. While technical specifications for the concept were not detailed in full, Genesis executives stated that the concept signals an intention to compete in the GT racing class in the future. This aligns with statements made by Hyundai Motor Company CEO José Muñoz regarding the brand’s ambition to combine Korean innovation with global performance standards.

The development of the Magma program has involved various prototypes and concepts over recent years. Genesis cited the GV80 Coupe Concept, the G80 Magma Special, and the X Gran Berlinetta Concept as precursors to the current announcements. The company also noted the participation of a GV60 Magma prototype at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, where it completed the hill climb course in 52.72 seconds and won its class in the “4-Seater Production Car” category. This testing phase was utilized to refine the design and driving technologies now present in the production model.

Market availability for the GV60 Magma will be staggered. The vehicle is scheduled to launch in the Korean market at the beginning of 2026. Subsequent launches in European and North American markets are planned for later in 2026. Genesis has positioned the Magma line to compete directly in the luxury high-performance sector, leveraging the manufacturing and technological resources of the wider Hyundai Motor Group. The company emphasizes that this new direction is not merely a trim package but a long-term strategy to elevate the brand’s standing in the global automotive market.