Wild V8-powered Genesis X Skorpio off-roader concept unveiled

The wild, armour-clad Genesis X Skorpio concept car has been unveiled in the Middle East, packing a V8 petrol engine that produces a mammoth 820kW of power and 1152Nm of torque.

Inspired by a black scorpion and headlining what the Korean luxury brand calls a “new concept car strategy” spanning several off-road-focused models, the X Skorpio could preview a production model that would sit alongside the range track-focused ‘Magma’ performance vehicles set to launch in Australia later this year.

The company has previously shown the X Gran Equator concept, which it described as an ‘overland’ SUV, rather than the Skorpio’s more aggressive, Dakar Rally-inspired ethos.

The V8 off-roader – the body of which mixes fibreglass, carbon-fibre and Kevlar – was unveiled alongside concepts based on existing Genesis vehicles sold in Australia, including the GV60 Outdoors Concept, GV70 Outdoors Concept and GV80 Desert Edition.

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None of the vehicles shown in the United Arab Emirates unveiling have been confirmed for Australia, with a Genesis spokesperson offering no official comment.

“The X Skorpio concept is an extreme off-road vehicle designed to be driven across the toughest and harshest terrain,” said Genesis chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke in a statement.

“With a tubular frame, a full roll cage and many components sourced directly from off-road endurance racing specialists, the X Skorpio Concept explores yet another facet of the Genesis brand and highlights our intent to inject emotion and adrenaline into different segments.”

While the deep blue and black exterior features prominent protective panels, Genesis says it has also focused on aerodynamics for the body. The Skorpio rides on black 18-inch beadlock alloy wheels wrapped in 40-inch tyres.

There are high-clearance guards and durable skid plates as part of the package, as well as finely tuned suspension and Brembo brakes.

Genesis says the exterior design reflects both the “bold and daring essence” and the “resilience” of the black scorpion, while the cabin blends off-road toughness with luxury themes.

The interior, Genesis says, was developed “with a singular focus: ensuring driver performance and passenger comfort during the physically demanding challenges of off-road adventures”.

This includes laser-cut detailing, leather upholstery, matte and gloss finishes, and off-road-focused elements such as large grab handles, racing harnesses and ‘unlimited’ adjustability for its sliding digital dash display.

Driver instruments are also integrated into the steering wheel, providing feedback on the 820kW/1152Nm V8, about which the automaker has shared little additional detail.

Genesis marked its 10th anniversary in 2025 with the G90 wagon concept as it reshuffled its leadership – alongside broader moves at parent company Hyundai Motor Group – including the appointment of Sean (Sihyeok) Lee as its new global head.

The brand has also shown a ute concept, with Mr Donckerwolke suggesting an electric pickup truck could form part of Genesis’ future model lineup.

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