Genesis Unveils GV60 Magma: First Step into Luxury High-Performance Sector

KO YONG-CHUL Reporter

korocamia@naver.com | 2025-11-21 13:55:49


 

Genesis, the luxury brand of Hyundai Motor Group, has officially accelerated its entry into the high-performance luxury segment with the world premiere of the GV60 Magma in France. The unveiling, which took place on November 20 (local time) at the Paul Ricard Circuit in Le Castellet, marked the debut of the brand's first luxury high-performance model developed under the 'Magma' program.

Magma: A Vision for High Performance 

The 'Magma' program, first formalized by Genesis last year, encapsulates the brand's vision to build upon its decade-long foundation in the premium market by adding superior performance to create a distinct "luxury high-performance" offering. Genesis has set an ambitious target for this new line, aiming for Magma products to account for approximately 5% of its 2030 global sales goal of 350,000 units.

The GV60 Magma is the first production model developed from the GV60 Magma Concept. Enhancing the vehicle's stability, the production model features a wider stance and a lower overall height compared to the standard GV60. It is visually distinguished by its striking orange exterior color.

Peak Performance and Dynamics 

The GV60 Magma boasts the most powerful drivetrain among Genesis's current electric production models. The combined output of the front and rear motors delivers a peak power of $448 text{ kW}$ (609 horsepower) and a maximum torque of $790 text{ Nm}$.

Furthermore, the vehicle includes a Boost Mode, which can be activated for up to 15 seconds, maximizing the car's high-performance capabilities. In Boost Mode, the power output rises to $478 text{ kW}$ (650 horsepower), maintaining the $790 text{ Nm}$ torque, and pushing the top speed to $264 text{ km/h}$.

The car offers three Magma-exclusive drive modes: SPRINT, GT, and MY.

SPRINT Mode: Accessible via a steering wheel button, this mode sets all non-control related driving parameters to their maximum, allowing the driver to experience the vehicle's full potential.
GT Mode: Designed for high-speed cruising, it ensures a balanced performance output and energy efficiency.
MY Mode: This allows the driver to custom-configure various systems, including the electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD), electronic control suspension (ECS), and electronic stability control (ESC).

Genesis highlights the vehicle’s rapid acceleration, stating that utilizing the Launch Control function enables the GV60 Magma to reach $200 text{ km/h}$ in just $10.9 text{ seconds}$.

The GV60 Magma is scheduled for sequential global launch, starting in South Korea in January of next year, followed by Europe and North America.

Looking Ahead: Magma GT Concept 

During the event, Genesis also showcased the Magma GT Concept, a sports car model that outlines the brand's performance direction for the next decade. This follows Genesis's formal entry into motorsports with the launch of 'Genesis Magma Racing' (GMR) last December.

Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer (CCO) of Hyundai Motor Group, emphasized the Magma philosophy, stating, “Magma pursues a relaxed performance that is naturally felt throughout the entire driving experience, rather than simply focusing on power competition or speed.” The goal is to infuse the Genesis DNA with dynamism and vitality while preserving the brand’s inherent elegance and harmony.

Jose Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, celebrated the brand's rapid success: “Genesis has achieved global cumulative sales of one million units faster than any other luxury brand in history.” He further asserted that with the Magma program—which he described as "Genesis maximized"—the brand is poised to achieve future growth in the high-performance sector.

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