Genesis GV60 Magma to enter production in 2025; hybrid model eyed

When Hyundai Motor Co. unveiled the Genesis GV60 Magma Concept at Genesis House New York this March, the premium brand’s color – vivid orange – was probably too strong to become a production model, as some auto critics put it.

Along with a lowered ride height and widened body, the concept, when it rolls out of the production line, will also feature unique chassis components and a specially tuned powertrain, Hyundai executives said back then.

Four months later, the South Korean top automaker’s first high-performance electric trim under the Genesis brand made its global debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed in Chichester, England – the first time a Magma model has been shown in action.

On Thursday, Genesis said the production model of the GV60 Magma, scheduled for next year, will “closely resemble the concept” with only necessary modifications made to comply with local regulations.

Production of the GV60 Magma, the first model of the Genesis high-performance subbrand, will commence in the third quarter of 2025 in Korea, with European models to follow in the fourth quarter, Hyundai announced at Goodwood, the UK’s largest automotive festival.

Industry officials expect the GV60 Magma to reach US dealerships in the first half of 2026.

“We are thrilled to present the GV60 Magma Concept at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed,” said Genesis Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke. “The festival’s storied legacy and enthusiastic audience provide an ideal platform to showcase the capabilities of our new Magma program and highlight our strong commitment to high performance.”

GENESIS EYES PRODUCTION OF HYBRID MODEL

During a media briefing at the Goodwood Festival, Song Min-kyu, vice president and global head of Genesis said that the company is considering launching a hybrid Genesis model.

“We’re planning to launch a hybrid model while moving toward electrification. We want to unveil one as soon as possible but it is unlikely to come this year,” said the executive, also known by his English name Mike Song.

So far, Genesis has sold only internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and electric models.

Asked if Genesis plans to have a high-performance ICE vehicle, the executive said: "We will do it if our customers want it. We can’t say no. We are considering it.”

UNSPOKEN DOMINANCE

Genesis aims for its Magma models to be “high-end variants” of each model in its lineup, starting with the GV60.

According to Genesis, the GV60 Magma Concept has elevated the design and performance of the existing Genesis GV60 – the brand’s first dedicated EV model launched in 2021 – with improved battery and motor technology. It has also fine-tuned the chassis, profile and thermodynamics.

Officials said each Genesis Magma vehicle will embody three fundamental attributes: “unspoken dominance,” “captivating control” and “sharpened immersion.”

RACING LEGEND JACKY ICKX, BRAND PARTNER

The dynamic debut of the Genesis GV60 Magma was led by Jacky Ickx, a six-time 24 Hours of Le Mans winner, who was appointed the Genesis brand partner in February.

The Belgian racing legend will drive the GV60 Magma Concept up the iconic Goodwood Hillclimb, according to Hyundai.

The GV60 Magma Concept is among several vehicles within the Genesis Magma program showcased at this year’s Goodwood, including the G80 EV Magma Concept and the G70 Track Taxi Nordschleife.

Write to Jae-Fu Kim at hu@hankyung.com

In-Soo Nam edited this article.