Genesis has used the world’s most famous endurance race to showcase its growing performance ambitions, unveiling the new Magma GT3 Concept while outlining plans for motorsport, performance vehicles and global expansion.
The announcement was made during a press conference at Genesis Hospitality within the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe ahead of the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France, marking a significant new chapter for the luxury Korean brand. Genesis also revealed upgraded Magma GT Concept and X Gran Convertible Concepts.
Genesis steps up to the Hypercar class
Building on its previous Le Mans involvement, Genesis is now entering the top-tier Hypercar class through the Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar.
Genesis Magma Racing aims to achieve a new milestone for Korean motorsport while showcasing the brand’s performance capabilities on the global stage at the 24 Hours of Le Mans from June 13-14 (local time).
José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, said, “Genesis has grown faster than any other luxury automotive brand, and we’re thrilled to be competing in the world’s toughest endurance race where we’ll be able to validate our performance under pressure.”
He added that lessons learned from racing will help shape future Magma performance vehicles, while also influencing how the company approaches innovation and customer service.
Strong start in FIA WEC debut season
Genesis Magma Racing has already shown encouraging form during its first season in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC). The team secured championship points during Round 2 at the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps, demonstrating competitive pace and operational capability despite being in its inaugural campaign.
With that experience behind it, Genesis says its priority at Le Mans is to complete the demanding 24-hour race while also aiming for a competitive result.
Magma GT3 Concept makes global debut
Headlining the brand’s announcements at Le Mans was the world premiere of the Genesis Magma GT3 Concept. The concept provides a glimpse into a potential future direction for Genesis Magma Racing beyond its current Hypercar program.
Developed as part of a long-term motorsport strategy, the GT3 Concept reflects Genesis’ interest in expanding into GT3 racing while strengthening the connection between its road cars and motorsport activities.
Unlike many GT3 race cars, Genesis says the concept was not developed from an existing production vehicle and was instead designed around GT3 regulations from the outset. As an independent study, it explores how race-focused engineering, aerodynamics and architecture could influence future Genesis performance vehicles. Powertrain specifications have not yet been announced.
Genesis Magma GT3 Concept design
The key GT3 design features include:
- Wider front and rear tracks
- Large front splitter
- Enlarged cooling ducts
- Door-mounted aerodynamic fin
- Advanced thermal management systems
- Fixed rear wing
- Rear diffuser designed for endurance racing
The project was developed in collaboration with Hyundai Motorsport.
Genesis notes that the GT3 Concept remains under exploration, with its final architecture, components and potential development path yet to be determined.
The company describes it as one of several possible future motorsport scenarios beyond its current LMDh and Hypercar ambitions.
Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Genesis, said the Magma GT Concept and Magma GT3 Concept represent two connected interpretations of performance; one focused on refined luxury grand touring and the other on uncompromising motorsport performance.
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Magma GT Concept evolves
Genesis revealed an updated version of the Magma GT Concept, alongside its racing program. Originally unveiled in November 2025, the concept returns with an all-new interior and further showcases Genesis’ vision for luxury performance vehicles under its Magma high-performance program.
Magma GT Concept design
Designed as a two-seat luxury grand tourer, the Magma GT Concept combines athletic styling with elegant proportions. Its key design highlights include:
- Low-slung front-end design
- Wide wheel arches and fenders
- Dynamic mid-engine proportions
- Sculpted body surfaces
- Aerodynamic detailing inspired by Genesis’ Athletic Elegance design philosophy
Magma GT Concept interior
Inside, the concept features:
- A twin-cockpit cabin layout
- Driver-focused architecture
- An analog instrument cluster inspired by motorsport timing instruments
- Physical controls designed to enhance driver engagement
Genesis says the cabin is designed to balance performance, craftsmanship, and comfort while reimagining the modern luxury grand-touring experience.
Genesis showcases updated X Gran Convertible Concepts
Genesis also used Le Mans to present updated versions of its X Gran Convertible Concept. It was originally revealed at the 2025 Seoul Mobility Show, and its latest versions have been refined and more closely aligned with the growing Magma performance portfolio.
Based on the Genesis G90, the updated concepts explore a more emotional and open interpretation of luxury while highlighting the brand’s evolving design identity.
Two unique versions will participate in the Drivers’ Parade through the city of Le Mans:
- X Gran Convertible Concept (Liquid Titanium) is inspired by Genesis Magma Racing colours and emphasises the energy and excitement of motorsport.
- X Gran Convertible Concept (Midnight Teal) features a calmer and more sophisticated appearance and uses tartan-inspired textiles to create a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.
The vehicles will be driven by Genesis brand ambassador and race advisor Jacky Ickx alongside reserve driver and Genesis Magma Racing development driver Jamie Chadwick.
Motorsport supporting global growth
Genesis says its motorsport activities form part of a broader strategy to strengthen the brand globally. Alongside its racing ambitions, Genesis is expanding across Europe with new market entries in Italy, France, the Netherlands, and Spain. The company is also preparing future launches in Poland, Austria, Portugal, and Denmark
Genesis says its combination of motorsport participation, performance vehicle development and international expansion will help strengthen its position in the global luxury market.
The Magma program serves as Genesis’ dedicated high-performance division, acting as the athletic counterpart to its luxury vehicle range.
Bottom line
Genesis has used the 2026 Le Mans event to showcase its most ambitious performance vision yet. Alongside its Hypercar racing program, the brand unveiled the striking Magma GT3 Concept, revealed an evolved Magma GT Concept, and highlighted its plans to connect motorsport more closely with future road cars.
Combined with Genesis’ ongoing European expansion, the announcements signal that the Magma performance program is becoming a central pillar of the brand’s global growth strategy.
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