We’d let you off not knowing much about the Magma Genesis models. Yes, there’s a ring taxi, and yes, there’s some tasty hardware in a few of the cars, but with vague promises and nothing much beyond show cars, it’s been hard to build up much enthusiasm. Now, however, the hotted-up Magma Gensises (pun intended) are going to be a real thing, starting with the GV60 Magma.
Set to go on sale in Europe at the end of next year, the first Genesis Magma ‘elevates the design and performance of the GV60’ with more power as well as chassis and aero mods. It’s obviously quite a bit lower and wider than standard, which is always a good sign for a fast one. Genesis reckons the new suspension mods have been ‘thoughtfully engineered to elevate overall performance and provide an unmatched driving sensation exclusive to Magma vehicles.’ They certainly make it look much more hot hatchy than the regular SUV - again encouraging. Let’s not forget, either, that the GV60 is built on the same E-GMP EV architecture as the Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5, cars that have become the very good 585hp GT and fantastic 650hp 5N respectively. At the moment, it seems like one of the best toolkits to build a flagship, driver-focused EV from. So don’t dismiss the Magma as merely an orange SUV just yet.
Eventually there will be a Magma of every model in the range, says Genesis, improving the looks and the drive. They will be based on three pillars of ‘Unspoken Dominance’ (making them look cool), ‘Captivating Control’ (making them engaging to drive) and Sharpened Immersion (making them nice to be in). For the GV60 Magma, that latter point is going to mean its own EV soundtrack as well as a bespoke driver interface for occupants to ‘fully immerse themselves in the thrilling journey ahead.’ Maybe a gimmick, yes, but the Ioniq 5N has shown that the silly stuff can exist with a properly gratifying drive. And this is just the start, remember, with petrol-powered Genesis models likely lined up for Magmafication if the concepts are anything to go by - let’s hope for a proper M3 rival from the G70, for example.
Luc Donckerwolke is Chief Creative Officer at Genesis. He said of the Magma: “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. We invite all attendees to immerse themselves in the full Genesis experience and witness the dynamic energy and power of Genesis Magma.” Bring on 2025…
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