Genesis has confirmed its high-performance Magma models - with which the company hopes to broaden its portfolio and take on European performance rivals - will go into production. Effectively soft-launched with the GV80 Coupe Concept in 2022, the Magma badge is expected to arrive on numerous models in the Genesis range, including the GV60 electric SUV.
So this is an electric sub-brand?
No, not at all. Yes, the electric GV60 will be the first Magma model in the range, but we’re also expecting Magma versions of the Genesis G80 to be made in petrol and electric forms, while the GV80 Coupe Magma is also thought to be on the way with petrol power. Eventually, Genesis plans to offer a Magma version of every model in the range, although there’s no timescale for that yet.
I’m seeing a lot of orange...
Quite. Genesis is launching its Magma models with a bold orange colour scheme, which fits with the name, but Genesis design boss Luc Donckerwolke says this is anything but a mere cosmetic upgrade. So much so that the Magma models won’t wear any derivative badges - no Genesis equivalents of M logos everywhere or AMG-branded alloys - and there isn’t much in the way of design additions. Instead, there’s just a blacked-out Genesis badge and the odd vent or aerodynamic appendage on display. As performance cars go, they’re fairly subtle. Aside from the colour, obviously.
So what has Genesis done?
Most of the upgrades are mechanical, with the GV60 Magma getting a widened and lower body, a wider front air intake and little ‘canard’ wings on the front bumper to increase downforce. Bigger fenders and integrated air outlets are there to improve brake cooling, while the 21-inch titanium-coloured wheels are also aerodynamically optimised. Finally, there are fins on the roof to direct air down to the prominent rear wing.
Inside, meanwhile, Genesis has fitted Recaro bucket seats with body-coloured shells and part-leather upholstery with double-diamond stitching in the suede seat inserts. According to Genesis, the Magma models are intended to feel sporty without sacrificing the base car’s luxury credentials.
What about the powertrain?
We’re expecting to see an uplift in power from the GV60, but it’s unclear exactly how much power the Magma will get. It seems though that the car will be powered by an evolution of the two-motor, all-wheel-drive system currently found in the range-topping GV60.
That said, Tyrone Johnson, the man in charge of Magma chassis technology, has said Genesis will not chase huge power outputs. Nevertheless, he also said the car will have “sufficient” power and more performance than “most customers” will regularly exercise.
When will it go on sale?
There’s no hard-and-fast word on when the GV60 Magma will go into production, but we’re expecting it to be launched properly at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK next month, and it should go on sale next year. However, there’s still no sign of Genesis officially joining the Irish market, so would-be Irish customers may have to import one if they’re keen.
We’ll miss out on the Magma range altogether?
Not so fast. Alongside the Magma scheme, Genesis is also introducing a new Track Taxi programme at the fearsome Nürburgring Nordschleife track in western Germany. There, members of the public can book a passenger ride around the circuit in a specially modified G70, decked out in Magma colours.
Technically, the car isn’t a Magma model, but with tweaked suspension and the 3.3-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine that’s offered in North America and elsewhere in the world (but not in Europe), it uses similar know-how. Tickets start at €120 for one person, €160 for two and €180 for three people, and will be available to book during weekends and public holidays.