2027 Genesis GV60 Repositioned with New RWD Entry Model and High-Performance Magma Flagship

Genesis is restructuring its GV60 electric crossover lineup in Australia for the 2027 model year, introducing a more affordable rear-wheel-drive entry point and a high-performance flagship under its new Magma sub-brand.

The new entry-level GV60 Advanced starts at AU$88,300 (approximately US$61,800), representing a significant price drop from the original all-wheel-drive launch price of AU$103,700. This strategic price adjustment comes as premium automakers face intense competition from increasingly affordable Chinese electric vehicles entering the Australian market.

Built on the Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated E-GMP platform, the Genesis GV60 shares its mechanical foundations with the highly successful Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. However, Genesis has struggled to match the sales volumes of its mainstream corporate siblings, prompting this latest effort to carve out a distinct luxury-performance identity.

To replace the outgoing AWD Performance trim, Genesis Australia is launching the GV60 Magma, priced from AU$130,000 (US$91,200). The Magma variant serves as a luxury-oriented counterpart to the track-focused Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, utilizing dual electric motors to produce a combined 448 kW (601 hp) and 700 Nm (516 lb-ft) of torque. This launch aligns with the brand’s broader push into motorsports, including endurance racing and potential plans for a GT3 racing program.

The new base-model GV60 Advanced features an upgraded 84 kWh battery pack paired with a single rear-mounted electric motor. This setup delivers 168 kW (225 hp) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, pushing the electric crossover from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in approximately 7.5 seconds.

Under the WLTP testing cycle, the rear-wheel-drive variant boasts an improved driving range of up to 561 kilometers (348 miles). Thanks to upgraded battery thermal management, the vehicle supports DC fast charging up to 350 kW, allowing a 10% to 80% charge in 18 minutes. It also retains a 3.6 kW Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability to power external appliances.

Visually, the 2027 model receives subtle styling tweaks, including reshaped front and rear bumpers, revised headlights, and new 19-inch wheels. Notably, Genesis has reverted to traditional physical side mirrors as standard, moving away from the previous model’s optional camera-based system. Inside, the cabin features a new 27-inch integrated display housing the instrument cluster and infotainment system, alongside an updated steering wheel and the signature rotating Crystal Sphere gear selector.

To enhance ride quality, Genesis engineers integrated a low-friction steering U-joint and revised rear hydraulic bushings to minimize road noise and vibration. These mechanical updates, combined with standard acoustic glass, aim to deliver the quiet, isolated cabin experience expected of premium luxury vehicles.

Driver tech upgrades include an intelligent “full auto” regenerative braking mode that adjusts deceleration based on real-time navigation data, traffic flow, and upcoming intersections. While Genesis claims a combined efficiency rating of 16.7 kWh/100 km, real-world testing across mountainous terrain yielded an average of 18.5 kWh/100 km.

With its new pricing structure, the GV60 positions itself directly against established premium electric SUVs in Australia, such as the Lexus RZ (starting at AU$84,500) and the BMW iX1 (starting at AU$79,900). While it remains a niche choice compared to mass-market electric vehicles, the updates aim to solidify its appeal to buyers seeking a distinct blend of luxury and advanced technology.