The Genesis G80 EV Magma: From Orange to Blue, From Gas To Electric
Dear Genesis. We get it – you guys like to play with colors. First, it was that bright orange G80 Magma that was hotter than a chili pepper in the desert sun. And now, the G80 EV Magma hits the Beijing Auto Show with that fancy "Acme Blue" paint – presumably named after the brand of explosives and anvils so favored by a certain desert-dwelling coyote I know. But hey, at least they aren't just rehashing the same orange, am I right?
Now, before you roll your eyes and say, "Oh, another snarky car reviewer bashing a concept car," let me clarify. It looks pretty cool, and they've done some neat stuff. Carbon fiber bits, giant 21-inch wheels, an "advanced suspension system"... oh, the intrigue. We all know "advanced" usually means some sort of electronic trickery to make it corner without flipping on its side like a clumsy puppy.
But, here's the thing folks: Genesis is being a bit coy about the actual numbers. Yes, they say it "exceeds the traditional ICE in power" which is all well and good, but that ICE-powered Magma's twin-turbo V6 was good for around 500 horses. My toaster could exceed that with a couple of electric motors slapped on. So, come on Genesis, give us some figures! How fast is this thing? What's the range like? Is it going to warp time and space like some of those Plaid Teslas?
Of course, there's the lingering question of whether this electric Magma will escape the clutches of the Chinese market like a mischievous cartoon mouse. Or will it remain limited like that orange version they're peddling to our friends in the oil-rich Middle East?
Look, I'm not saying Genesis is building bad cars. The whole Electrified G80 thing is a smooth ride, and this Magma adds a much-needed dash of excitement to the electric arena, which is often about as thrilling as watching paint dry. But a little more substance over style wouldn't hurt.
Okay, let's cut to the chase. The looks? Well, it's sleek and sporty, sure. Those flared fenders are trying a bit too hard to add some muscle, and honestly, it's starting to feel like every other luxury EV on the block. As for the power, you already know they're bragging it can beat the old man's V6-powered G80, but that's not exactly setting the bar high, is it?
Let's talk range. I'm betting on "passable" with a side of range anxiety. Those giant wheels and flashy body kit are probably sucking the juice out of the battery faster than my nephew at a Slurpee machine. And when it comes to price, get ready to open that wallet wide, because this thing is likely going to give a "premium for the badge" a whole new meaning. Remember, folks, underneath all that fancy styling, it's still a Hyundai.
Genesis is still the new kid on the block, trying to elbow its way into the big leagues. With EVs becoming the norm, maybe the G80 EV Magma is a sign they're serious about making more than just luxurious grocery-getters. But until we have some real performance numbers and word on its international availability, well, the hype train is only chugging along at half-speed. Unless the Genesis engineers managed to shoehorn in the entire drivetrain from the utterly bonkers Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. If that was the case, then the hype train is leaving the station - all aboard!
