Genesis G80 EV Magma Concept Looks Ready To Take On The BMW i5 M60

Genesis has whipped the covers off the new G80 EV Magma Concept, a sporty one-off based on the G80 Electrified sedan. Debuting at Auto China (Beijing Motor Show), the new concept is the latest Magma model and follows the GV60 Magma unveiled last month at the New York Auto Show. It was introduced alongside the Chinese-market G80, which receives an exclusive long-wheelbase and Vision Blue paint option.

Painted in Acme Blue, a color exclusive to the Chinese market, Genesis says the eye-catching shade is inspired by hot-burning blue flames. Compared to the stately vehicle on which it is based, the G80 EV Magma has a lot more attitude, courtesy of several exterior upgrades. For a start, the polished grille is gone, replaced with a sportier mash-pattern grille finished in black. The luxury EV has also been lowered, while flared fenders provide a more menacing stance.

Looks Rather Good, Doesn’t It?

Tucked away under the muscular wheel arches are interesting-looking 21-inch, staggered wheels. The wheel design is rather conventional, but with a blue-painted ring presumably to aid aerodynamic performance makes it stand out. At the rear, you’ll find a new bumper with an integrated fog lamp, a nod to racing cars. There’s also a functional ducktail spoiler and diffuser, which improve airflow.

Genesis makes no mention of performance upgrades. Assuming it uses the same electric drivetrain as the standard model, we can expect 365 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motor setup. The G80 EV Magma should be more fun in the corners, though, courtesy of suspension and braking upgrades. Ventilated front and rear brakes improve stopping power, while track-tuned suspension makes the vehicle sharper and more enjoyable to drive.

Could It Enter Production?

Strangely, the automaker hasn’t shared interior images but notes the cabin has been trimmed in a mixture of sporty Alcantara and high-end quilted leather, with carbon fiber inlays thrown in for good measure. Of course, this isn’t the first sporty G80 we’ve seen in recent months. In December, Genesis previewed the widebody G80 Magma special, based on the ICE version of the sedan. Sadly, this performance-oriented sedan is only available in the Middle East, but there’s a chance it may come to the United States soon.

Head of Genesis Global Design, SangYup Lee, says the concept expresses the company’s design and engineering capabilities and its desire to meet the needs of Chinese consumers. With any luck, the G80 EV Magma will be pressed into production as an alternative to the BMW i5 M60. Perhaps Genesis can borrow technology from the Ioniq 5 N to make it even more engaging.