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Genesis unveils 820kW V8 X Skorpio concept, made for dunes

Genesis has unveiled an interesting off-road concept, called the X Skorpio, inspired by sand-dune-conquering machines in the United Arab Emirates.

It’s the first off-road vehicle by Genesis, in terms of being an extreme off-roader, and it appears to be based on the styling theme of the X Gran Berlinetta supercar concept. However, the body is lifted considerably and it features various reinforcements.

2026 Genesis X Skorpio concept - rear

Skide plates underneath protect the vital bits, with long-travel suspension absorbing heavy impacts, while traction is provided by huge 40-inch tyres custom-made for the Skorpio, wrapped around 18-inch beadlock wheels.

Power? Yep, it has heaps of it. Genesis has shoved a V8 of some capacity into the coupe developing an incredible 820kW and 1152Nm. Looking at the torque figure suggests there is some kind of forced induction going on. Full specs are yet to be confirmed.

2026 Genesis X Skorpio concept - off road

Not only does it produce mega power, but most of the body is made from carbon fibre and fibreglass, with Kevlar for added strength and stiffness, so it is very light in weight.

Inside, it’s a mix of luxury and Dakar utility. You’ve got an instrument cluster on the steering wheel like an off-road race car, with a navigation screen for the passenger, and no main touch-screen – although the passenger screen can slide across to the middle of the dash. Yet, leather is spread across the dash, with soft Alcantara suede for the main touch points.

2026 Genesis X Skorpio concept - interior

The concept also features an integrated roll cage for safety and stiffness, with four-point harnesses for the passengers. And if you look closely you might notice the stitching for some of the interior is inspired by the legs of a scorpion.

Now obviously there are no plans for this to go into production as is, but Genesis is showcasing its capabilities, while demonstrating the brand’s ‘Athletic Elegance’ design theme by incorporating three main elements; Luxury, Sport, and Cool. Genesis chief creative officer, Luc Donckerwolke, said:

“By aligning our designs with these qualities, Genesis aims to foster emotional connections with customers, generate valuable feedback and solidify our position as an industry leader in luxury automotive innovation. Each concept is a signal of what’s possible, a glimpse into the DNA of Genesis’ future.”

Genesis unveiled the X Skorpio concept at a special event in the UAE, alongside the GV60 Outdoors and GV70 Outdoors concepts, and the GV80 Desert Edition.

Genesis GV60 GV70 Outdoors concepts

Brett Davis

Brett started out as a motor mechanic but eventually became frustrated working on cars that weren't his. He then earned a degree in journalism and scored a job at Top Gear Australia back in 2008, and then worked at Zoom/Extreme Performance magazines, CarAdvice, and started PerformanceDrive/PDriveTV in 2011 with Josh Bennis. He's now the owner and managing editor here at Driving Enthusiast.
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