Genesis is not precisely recognized for its off-road prowess, however the luxurious automaker determined to construct a lifted GV80 nonetheless. It is referred to as the GV80 Desert Version, and legendary racing driver Jacky Ickx piloted it at this yr’s Dakar 2025 race.

The GV80 Desert Version has 20-inch beadlock wheels wrapped in rugged all-terrain tires. It is also 1.6 inches wider to assist accommodate the brand new rubber. A customized roof rack was added for carrying gas canisters and a tent, and the Midnight Blue exterior with white striping is a delicate nod to Ickx’s racing helmet.

Picture by: Genesis

Genesis says the suspension is “comprehensively upgraded,” however the automaker would not go into specifics. So far as we are able to inform, the powertrain is totally untouched. Probably the most highly effective model of the GV80 makes use of a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 making 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque, paired to an eight-speed automated transmission.

The GV80 Desert Version additionally features a host of lighting upgrades to enhance visibility whereas on the course. These embody a brand new LED mild bar on the roof, extra lighting within the A-pillar, and new lighting fixtures within the bumper. The GV80 even purportedly has a night-vision digicam.

The customized Genesis honors 4 a long time since Ickx’s win on the 1983 Dakar rally—and it helps the racing icon ring in his eightieth birthday, full with a customized E80 door sticker. Ickx accomplished the whole 3,728-mile (6,000-kilometer) route from Bisha to Shubaytah behind the wheel of the GV80.

Picture by: Genesis

Picture by: Genesis

Chief Inventive Officer Luc Donckerwolke oversaw the venture, which was a collaboration between Genesis Center East and W Motors. W Motors is similar firm accountable for supercars just like the Lykan SuperSport and Lykan HyperSport.

Does this imply Genesis is stepping into the off-road sport? Impossible. The GV80 Desert Version in all probability received’t be at your native Genesis vendor anytime quickly. But it surely’s a neat one-off nonetheless.

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