2026 Genesis GV60 Magma flexes muscles

Genesis has confirmed local pricing for the new 2026 GV60 Magma, the small electric SUV that launches the brand’s Magma performance sub-brand. Priced from $130,000 plus on-road costs and available to order now, the Magma sits atop a refreshed GV60 range that also includes a cheaper, longer-range entry model, with both now arriving in Australian showrooms.

Genesis has thrown the full box and dice at its first dedicated performance model, borrowing the dual-motor powertrain, 84kWh battery and electronic limited-slip differential from the Hyundai IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 6 N before wrapping them in a downsized, exclusive body.

A unique three-hole front bumper, forged 21-inch wheels wrapped in Pirelli performance tyres, a model-specific rear wing and the aptly named Magma Orange paint distinguish the flagship from the standard GV60.

Inside, orange stitching contrasts with Chamude suede-look upholstery, while a redesigned steering wheel gains dedicated boost and drive-mode buttons.

The Virtual Gear Shift function recreates the feel of a conventional gearbox with simulated engine sounds, while laminated acoustic glass and active noise control help keep the cabin quiet during everyday driving.

Genesis has also updated the wider GV60 range.

The entry-level GV60 Advanced RWD switches to a single electric motor, but gains the larger fourth-generation battery that extends driving range to 561km. Connected to a 350kW DC fast charger, it can recharge from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 18 minutes.

A new 27-inch panoramic display, Digital Key 2.0 and four-piston monobloc front brakes complete the update for the Australian GV60 line-up.

Despite the arrival of the Magma, Genesis continues to face an uphill battle in Australia.

According to VFACTS figures, the brand recorded 175 sales nationally in June 2026, with the GV60 contributing just 24 deliveries. Year to date, Genesis has sold 759 vehicles, compared with Lexus, which recorded 1367 sales in June alone and 6299 over the first six months of the year.

That disparity remains a challenge for Hyundai's luxury brand.

Genesis continues to operate under an agency sales model similar to Mercedes-Benz and Honda, with the manufacturer retaining ownership of stock and setting fixed pricing through a limited retail network.

Whether that approach changes as Genesis looks to expand its footprint remains to be seen, but the arrival of a genuine halo performance model marks an important milestone.

Mercedes-Benz has AMG, BMW has M, Lexus has F — and now Genesis has Magma.

The GV60 Magma signals the start of Genesis' long-awaited performance push, giving the Korean luxury brand a dedicated halo model to sit alongside its regular electric line-up.

Whether it helps lift the brand's modest Australian sales remains to be seen, but it gives Genesis a credible performance flagship to rival established luxury marques and potentially drum up more interest for the challenger brand. And if concept cars like the rugged V8-powered Genesis X Scorpio lead somewhere,

How much does the 2027 Genesis GV60 cost?
GV60 Advanced RWD — $88,300
GV60 Magma — $130,000
* Prices exclude on-road costs.

Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au