Genesis GV60 Magma unveiled: a luxury electric car that knows how to drift

Genesis, the luxury division of Hyundai, is finally bringing a high-performance entry into the growing segment of fast EVs. Meet the production version of the Genesis GV60 Magma, a premium crossover that marks the beginning of the brand's new, decade-long push into "luxury high performance." Unlike its ancestors, this GV60 is not some gentle, quiet EV for daily errands - instead, we get a powerful machine with a few track-ready tricks.

The GV60 Magma is powered by an all-wheel-drive system driven by two electric motors, one on the front axle and one on the rear. This dual-motor setup delivers an impressive 601 horsepower (448 kW) and 546 lb-ft of torque in normal driving.

But like a secret power-up in a video game, the driver can hit a "Boost Mode" button which unlocks the maximum output of 641 horsepower (478 kW) and 583 lb-ft of torque for a full 15 seconds. With the Launch Control system activated, the high-performance GV60 can rocket from a standstill to 124 mph in just 10.9 seconds. Its top speed checks in at 164 mph.

Genesis also lowered and widened the vehicle for a more aggressive stance and better handling. Compared to the regular GV60, the Magma rides 0.79 inches closer to the ground. Fender extenders make it wider, housing exclusive 21-inch forged wheels wrapped in 10.8 inches tires. Behind those wheels sit large-diameter brake disks and monoblock calipers for serious stopping power.

The suspension system has also been completely reworked, adjusting the geometry and roll center to improve how the vehicle corners. The addition of Electronic Control Suspension (ECS) helps create a good balance between a comfortable ride for everyday driving and stable handling when you push it hard.

Just like its high-performance cousins, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Kia EV6 GT, the Genesis GV60 Magma comes with features that can make the driving experience more engaging. One of the most talked-about is the Virtual Gear Shift (VGS) system, which simulates the feeling of changing gears in a traditional car by adjusting the motor's torque and the regenerative braking. It even adds engine-like sounds to complete the experience.

And for those drivers who like to visit a racetrack on a regular basis, the specialized Drift Mode changes the power distribution and rear electronic limited-slip differential to make the car more rear-wheel-biased, helping the driver slide the car easily.

The cabin echoes the Magma's sporty intentions, but keeps its luxury feel. The sport seats, door panels, and center console are covered in a suede-like material called Chamude. The interior features orange and gray stitching throughout, complemented by dark metal and black high-gloss finishes on the switches and buttons.

The digital dashboard has a dedicated Magma Mode, changing the instrument cluster to a three-circle layout that shows key performance data, including motor and battery temperatures, vehicle speed, and G-force measurements.

Genesis has not yet confirmed the battery capacity or the official driving range, but since the Magma version uses the same foundation as the Ioniq 5 N and Ioniq 6 N, it will likely use the same 84 kWh battery pack. The Ioniq 5 N gets an EPA-estimated range of 221 miles, and the sporty GV60 should offer similar numbers. The Magma should be able to charge its battery from 10% to 80% in about 18 minutes when connected to a powerful 350 kW DC fast charger.

The Genesis GV60 Magma will first arrive in its home market of South Korea early next year. North America and Europe will see the fiery crossover hit showrooms later in 2026. As for pricing, we can safely expect it to be more expensive than its cousins from Hyundai and Kia. Let's just hope Genesis won't be too liberal about setting Magma's price.

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