GV60 Magma’s official reveal is imminent
Genesis has announced that final testing of its first performance model, the GV60 Magma, has wrapped up. This moves the hot EV one step closer to an official reveal and a formidable meeting with rivals like the Cadillac Optiq-V, the heavily upgraded Tesla Model Y Performance, and Porsche Macan Electric. Comparisons will also be drawn between the GV60 Magma and Hyundai’s own Ioniq 5 N.
With the greater demands placed on the GV60 Magma’s suspension and other components, these final tests are critical. Let’s look at how Genesis has prepped its hottest EV yet as the new Magma sub-brand chases the same early success enjoyed by Hyundai’s N division.
Testing In The World’s Harshest Conditions
Genesis
Genesis took the GV60 Magma—which has been spied several times this year—to key locations across the world, testing its durability in a range of hot, cold, and high-altitude conditions.
Earlier this year, the EV was put through its paces in Sweden in harsh winter conditions, and from there it tackled the heat in California, the mountain ranges in New Zealand, and Spain’s variable roads. Also in New Zealand, the Magma was tested in sub-zero temperatures at almost 5,000 feet above sea level. Here, the crossover’s chassis, traction control systems, cornering, and braking capabilities were meticulously evaluated.
The final testing stages took place in September in Korea, culminating with fast laps at the Inje Speedium Circuit.
“Hyundai Motor Group has long upheld a rigorous global testing standard, ensuring every vehicle meets the highest levels of quality, durability, and performance,” said the automaker.
Massive Power And Advanced Architecture
The GV60 Magma is expected to feature dual electric motors and standard all-wheel drive. It’ll make in the region of 700 horsepower, creating some daylight between it and its less luxurious Ioniq 5 N cousin. That’ll give it an estimated 0-60 time of well under four seconds.
With 800-volt architecture, the EV will be capable of rapid charging of its battery, which sources say will have a capacity of 84 kWh. That will give it a WLTC range of almost 280 miles, but EPA ratings will be lower.
Genesis has confirmed an official unveiling of the GV60 Magma—complete with its giant rear wing—for later this year, so there’s not long to go before we see the finished product.
Genesis Will Have Its i30 N Moment
SH Proshots/Autoblog
Eight years ago, Hyundai launched its first N product, the i30 N hot hatchback. Although not sold in the United States, it was an instant hit with its turbocharged engine and specially tuned chassis, and proved that Hyundai’s performance brand was to be taken seriously. That was solidified with more models like the Ioniq 5 N, Veloster N, Kona N, Elantra N, and Ioniq 6 N, all of which are incredibly engaging cars to drive.
Like that i30 N did for Hyundai, the GV60 Magma will set the tone for the new performance sub-brand from Genesis. Doing that with a fully electric model won’t be easy, but Genesis has the Hyundai N division’s experience to lean on.
The Magma sub-brand ultimately aims to challenge BMW M and Mercedes-AMG’s products. Neither of these brands has a direct alternative to the GV60 Magma, though, so the Genesis will be chasing other performance EVs like the Cadillac Optiq-V.
If Magma follows the warm reception to Hyundai’s N, we have plenty to look forward to over the next few months.
About the author
Karl Furlong
Senior Editor, Autoblog