This Genesis Magma monster is hunting BMW M and Mercedes-AMG
With the launch 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 marrying their Athletic Elegance design philosophy and cultural identity with a powertrain that, frankly, looks absolutely 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 ultimate goal was to create something that creates an emotional connection between vehicle and driver, which is how Genesis describes Magma as its “alter ego.”
What is Genesis Magma
Legitimate competitor against BMW M and Mercedes-AMG
Listed as a program among its concept cars, Genesis Magma is a performance sub-brand that is the South Korean brand’s answer to BMW M and Mercedes-AMG.
Magma’s iconic orange color, as described by Genesis, symbolizes Korea’s self-confidence and passion, highlighted by humble first impressions that promote an outgoing attitude. In other words, Genesis made a calculated decision to infuse its cultural identity into a line of high-performance vehicles, much like the Japanese, Europeans or Americans.
Starting with the GV60 Magma, Genesis plans to roll out high-performance variants across its entire lineup, including a production version of the G80 Magma Special and possibly a halo supercar inspired by the Magma GT concept.
By incorporating key learnings from its new Magma Racing program, set 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.
- Base trim motor
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VE
- Base Trim Transmission
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1-speed automatic
- Basic transmission
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Rear-wheel drive
Most powerful Genesis ever
Next-generation two-stage motor control system
The heart of the GV60 Magma is a dual-motor configuration that represents a significant improvement over the standard GV60. Continuing improvements to the all-electric powertrain and power transmission systems have made this model the fastest production model in the brand’s history. Here’s a quick overview:
- Peak output: 641 horsepower (478 kW / 650 hp).
- Couple : 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: Designed for a track speed of 164 mph, supported by front and rear motors capable of spinning at 20,920 rpm.
- Vehicle weight: 4,850 pounds.
While conventional electric vehicles eventually hit a wall at high speeds, where back electromotive force (Back EMF) creates internal resistance that chokes power at high revs, the GV60 Magma uses a next-generation two-stage motor control system to get around this limitation.
By using advanced software algorithms to manage the power delivered by the inverter, 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 doesn’t just start suddenly from a stop, but continues to pull up to its rated top speed on the track.
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 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 new Neue Klasse platform, is the closest technical rival, the 2026 iX M70 will likely remain the benchmark here. The GV60 Magma holds its own, nearly matching the iX M70’s 650 horsepower.
However, Genesis pulls ahead yet again with a higher top speed for the GV60 Magma, surpassing the BMW’s 155 mph limit. Likewise, the GV60 Magma offers a superior 800-volt charging architecture compared to the BMW’s 400-volt system.
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New boost mode
15 seconds of happiness
Similar to the “Push-to-Pass” feature found in the Porsche Cayenne S Electric, the GV60 Magma features an improved Boost mode. While the standard GV60 offers a 10-second burst, the Magma extends this to 15 seconds.
To manage this power, the vehicle uses five distinct 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 handling of a traditional luxury grand tourer.
The GV60 Magma is equipped with Pirelli P Zero 5 275/35R21 tires as standard.
- Front camera resolution
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1080p
- Security
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24 hour parking mode
This small Nexar dash cam sits comfortably behind your rearview mirror and captures 1080p footage. It also has GPS to geotag videos.
Innovative accelerator pedal
Resistance-based design
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 loads (i.e., everyday commuting) and higher resistance for deep-pedal 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 touchpoints as it is about track times.
Meanwhile, the Genesis GV60 Magma comes standard with additional sound-deadening material throughout the floor and doors, as well as acoustic laminated glass.
Availability and starting MSRP
With deliveries to South Korea already underway, the 2027 GV60 Magma will reach select U.S. Genesis retailers this summer. Considering its performance and capabilities, the expected starting MSRP range of $75,000 to $80,000 is quite affordable, although the number of units available is expected to be limited.
