This Genesis Magma monster is hunting BMW M and Mercedes-AMG


With the debut of the all-electric GV60 Magma, Genesis is no longer just the “other alternative” to the European performance and luxury establishment. The Magma Editions are proof of the brand’s transformation into a legitimate high-performance brand, successfully combining its Athletic Elegance design philosophy and cultural identity with a powertrain that, frankly, looks downright sinister.

As Manfred Harrer, president of Hyundai Motor Group’s R&D division, says, the goal wasn’t just raw speed, although the GV60 Magma has plenty of that. Rather, the end goal was to create something that provided an emotional connection between vehicle and driver, which is fitting considering how Genesis describes Magma as its “alter ego.”

What is Genesis magma?

A legitimate rival against BMW M and Mercedes-AMG

Included as a program under its concept cars, Genesis Magma is a high-performance sub-brand that serves as the South Korean brand’s answer to BMW M and Mercedes-AMG.

The signature Magma Orange color, as described by Genesis, symbolizes Korean self-confidence and passion, underlined by humble first impressions that encourage an extroverted attitude. In other words, it’s a calculated move by Genesis to infuse its cultural identity into a line of high-performance vehicles not unlike Japanese, European or American ones.

Starting with the GV60 Magma, Genesis plans to roll out high-performance variants across its portfolio, including a production version of the G80 Magma Special and eventually a halo supercar inspired by the Magma GT Concept.

By integrating key learnings from your new Magma Racing programset to compete in the 2026 World Endurance Championship, Genesis is positioning Magma as a legitimate contender against the AMG and M divisions of the world.


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Basic tuning motor

electric vehicle

Base Fit Transmission

1 speed automatic

Base trim powertrain

rear wheel drive



The most powerful Genesis of all time

Next generation two-stage engine control system

At the heart of the GV60 Magma is a dual-motor setup that represents a significant jump over the standard GV60. Continued improvements to the powertrain and all-electric power delivery systems have made this the fastest production model in the brand’s history. Here’s a quick snapshot:

  • Maximum output: 641 horsepower (478 kW / 650 HP).
  • Torque: 583 lb-ft of torque (790 Nm).
  • Acceleration with launch control: Zero to 62 mph in 3.4 seconds; zero to 124 mph in 10.9 seconds.
  • Maximum speed: Track rated at 164 mph, backed by front and rear motors capable of spinning at 20,920 rpm.
  • Vehicle weight: 4,850 pounds.

While conventional electric vehicles eventually hit a high-speed wall, where the rear electromotive force (Back EMF) creates an internal resistance that cuts off power at high RPM, the GV60 Magma uses a next-generation two-stage motor control system to avoid this limitation.

By using advanced software algorithms to manage the inverter’s power delivery, Genesis has effectively raised the ceiling, allowing the motors to spin up to nearly 21,000 rpm without the torque drop typical of single-speed electric transmissions. This technical wizardry ensures that the GV60 Magma not only launches hard from a standstill, but continues to push forward until reaching its rated top track speed.

While the Mercedes-AMG EQE SUV offers more torque (700 lb-ft), the GV60 Magma has a higher top speed of 164 mph, compared to the AMG’s 149 mph. More importantly, the Genesis uses an 800-volt architecture for significantly faster charging than the Mercedes’ 400-volt system. Ultimately, the GV60 Magma offers almost identical performance at a lower cost.

Although the BMW iX3 M60, the high-performance variant of the recently launched Neue Klasse platform, is the closest technical rival, the 2026 iX M70 is likely to remain the benchmark here. The GV60 Magma holds its own and nearly matches the iX M70’s 650 horsepower.

However, Genesis is moving forward again with a higher top speed for the GV60 Magma, surpassing the BMW’s 155 mph limit. Additionally, the GV60 Magma offers a superior 800-volt charging architecture compared to the BMW’s 400-volt system.

Static shot of the front 3/4 of a red 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander.

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The expected leaders are joined by some surprising new features.

New boost mode

15 seconds of happiness

Similar to the “Push to Pass” feature found in the Porsche Cayenne S ElectricThe GV60 Magma features an improved Boost mode. While the standard GV60 offers a 10-second burst, the Magma extends it to 15 seconds.

To manage this output, the vehicle uses five different driving modes, including Magma’s exclusive Sprint and GT modes. While Range and Comfort prioritize efficiency, Sprint mode reconfigures throttle sensitivity for aggressive track maneuvers, while GT mode mimics the behavior of a traditional luxury grand tourer.

The GV60 Magma comes standard with 275/35R21 Pirelli P Zero 5 tires.

Front camera resolution

1080p

Security

24 hour parking mode

This small Nexar dash cam sits comfortably behind your rearview mirror and captures images in 1080p. It also has GPS to geotag videos.


Innovative accelerator pedal

Resistance based design

Interior of the 2027 Genesis GV60 Magma with a race track ahead Credit: Genesis

Perhaps the most interesting detail is the attention paid to the resistance of the accelerator pedal. Senior research engineer Taejun Kang noted that the team increased resistance across the range to improve driver control.

By offering lower resistance for light movements (i.e. commuting) and higher resistance for deep pedaling maneuvers (i.e. on a track), Genesis attempts to reduce driver fatigue while providing a more intuitive mechanical connection to the vehicle’s 641 horsepower. It’s a nuanced touch that suggests Genesis and its Magma program understand that performance is as much about contact points as it is about track timing.

Meanwhile, the Genesis GV60 Magma comes standard with additional sound-absorbing material throughout the floor and doors, along with acoustic laminated glass.


Availability and initial MSRP

While deliveries in South Korea are already underway, the 2027 GV60 Magma will arrive at select American Genesis retailers this summer. Given its performance and capability, the projected starting MSRP range of $75,000 to $80,000 is quite affordable, although the number of available units is expected to be limited.



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