Genesis GV60 Magma: Driven Review of the 641bhp Performance EV

We drive the new Genesis GV60 Magma, a high-performance electric SUV packing 641bhp. Initial impressions confirm that the Magma matches the fun and engagement of its N-badged cousins.

The ride is naturally firm, showing noticeable head-toss over broken tarmac and sharp potholes around town, but this trade-off pays off when you push the car on a track.

Tested on the undulating Knockhill circuit, it proved taut, poised, and seriously quick, offering meaty steering, tight body control, and indefatigable pace.

While you do notice the 2240kg kerb weight in tighter corners, the vehicle remains predictable and composed.

The brake pedal feels a bit soft with too much dead travel at the top, yet it rewards hard braking into corners and held up without fade after sustained hot laps.

Standout features include the calibration of the virtual gearbox and simulated exhaust note, which mimics a V6 sound complete with a Porsche 911 Turbo S burble at lower revs and a BMW M3 free-revving zing approaching a 9000rpm redline. On rural Scottish roads, this virtual system enhances speed perception and driver engagement.

Short undulations can upset vertical body control at speed, though the car maintains a neutral cornering stance through long, sweeping bends, despite steering that feels quite heavy for normal road use.

Flick it back into Comfort mode with the virtual gearbox and engine off, and it transforms into an amiable, easy-going EV.