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Genesis Surprises With a Mid-Engined Supercar
Andrew Evans
November 21, 2025
Hello, SpeedBiters! Here's what's on the menu today:
Fire-survivor Type 2 Bus restored by Volkswagen
Toyota backs WEC success penalty plan
Denza Z supercar heading to UK
Massa cleared to pursue Crashgate claim
MINI JCW conquers Japan's windiest road
...and more!
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INDUSTRY NEWS
While Genesis was also revealing its production-ready GV60 Magma, the brand also introduced the Genesis Magma GT Concept, a mid-engine supercar designed for competitive racing. While the exact powertrain details remain unconfirmed, the vehicle's debut hinted at a potential V8 engine, suggesting an intention to compete in GT-category racing against established brands like Ferrari and McLaren.
Denza, a premium brand under the Chinese automaker BYD, is set to introduce its all-electric Z supercar to the UK market, following its earlier concept reveal at Auto Shanghai. While specific technical specifications are limited, the Z is anticipated to feature advanced capabilities such as drifting and autonomous driving like its Yangwang stablemate, and it will be built on the same platform as the Z9 GT, promising rapid charging options.
Porsche has partnered with Manthey Racing to introduce a new track-oriented package for the 992.2 version of the 911 GT3, enhancing its aerodynamic features and suspension while keeping the engine unchanged and the warranty intact. Although the pricing details are yet to be revealed, the previous Manthey upgrade for the earlier model added a significant cost, and the latest iteration has already demonstrated improved performance.
Hyundai has officially revealed its Crater concept at the Los Angeles Auto Show, a design aimed at appealing to adventure enthusiasts in the US. This vehicle showcases various off-road features and a minimalist interior while incorporating innovative elements, although Hyundai has not disclosed its powertrain details or production plans.
Fiat has introduced a refreshed version of the Dolce Camper concept at the Sao Paulo Auto Show, featuring a robust design with pixel LED lighting and a pop-up roof. This model, which maintains elements from its predecessor while incorporating new aesthetics inspired by Brazil's landscapes, is built on a versatile platform that can support various powertrains, including electric and hybrid options.
The Genesis G90 Wingback concept hints at a potential estate variant of the brand's flagship sedan, designed to compete with high-performance models like the BMW M5 Touring. While production plans remain unconfirmed, executives have suggested that creating a market-ready version could be feasible if justified by demand.
Jeep has begun production of the 2026 Gladiator pickup truck, introducing a retro-inspired variant called the Willys ’41, reminiscent of the Kaiser Jeep M715 military models. While this model features cosmetic enhancements and a few functional updates, such as an improved door hinge system, it currently lacks the extensive variety seen in the Wrangler lineup and does not include a Hemi engine option.
Waymo is set to broaden its autonomous taxi operations to a minimum of 20 cities, with new additions including Minneapolis, Tampa, and New Orleans, where testing is expected to begin shortly. As the company continues to refine its technology, it aims to accelerate its expansion, having already established services in several major urban areas.
MOTORSPORT
Toyota has indicated its support for the potential introduction of success handicaps in the FIA World Endurance Championship, a proposal that has faced opposition from several competitors in the Hypercar category. While the FIA and ACO have not yet finalized their decision on this matter, Toyota's Nakajima believes that insights from the SUPER GT series demonstrate the viability of such a system, provided it is implemented thoughtfully.
Felipe Massa's legal battle regarding the 2008 'Crashgate' incident at the Singapore Grand Prix can move forward in seeking damages, although his request for a formal acknowledgment of winning the drivers' championship has been denied by the High Court. The judge acknowledged that new evidence presented by Massa warranted further examination, but emphasized that allowing his claim for a title declaration would interfere with the FIA's authority.
Lando Norris led the second practice session for the Las Vegas Grand Prix, achieving the fastest time despite interruptions caused by two red flags related to a potential manhole cover issue. The session's disruptions affected drivers' qualifying simulations, with Norris clocking a best lap of 1:33.602s, closely followed by Kimi Antonelli and Charles Leclerc, who reported gearbox problems after his runs.
The FIA has acknowledged a gap in the Formula 1 rules that permits teams to alter power units without incurring penalties under the cost cap. This ambiguity arose following the Brazilian Grand Prix, prompting questions about whether engine replacements for performance enhancements would be considered additional expenses, a matter that will be addressed with new regulations set to take effect in 2026.
The FIA's single seater director, Nikolas Tombazis, anticipates that the upcoming 2026 Formula 1 regulations will enhance the excitement of racing through significant changes to the vehicles. The introduction of lighter cars, a greater reliance on electric power, and the elimination of DRS in favor of a new energy boost system are expected to improve aerodynamic performance and allow for closer competition on the track.
Ferrari has historically been the leading engine manufacturer in Formula 1, achieving 249 race wins since the championship's inception in 1950. However, no team using Ferrari engines has celebrated a victory in over a year, while those with Mercedes units have claimed 18 wins during that period, closing the gap between them to just ten wins.
Jason Somerville, the FIA's aerodynamics chief, has announced his resignation and will begin a six-month gardening leave before joining Alpine for the 2026 season. During his notice period, he will focus on non-F1 projects while ensuring he no longer has access to sensitive information related to Formula 1 teams.
Cyan Racing will introduce the Geely Preface to the TCR competition in the upcoming 2026 FIA TCR World Tour, marking the brand's inaugural entry into this racing series. This collaboration, described as a long-term partnership, aims to develop a racing variant of the Geely Preface, which has already achieved significant sales in Asia since its launch.
CURIOSITIES
A 1977 Volkswagen Type 2 Microbus, affectionately named "Azul," has undergone a comprehensive restoration after surviving devastating wildfires in California earlier this year. Spearheaded by Volkswagen of America, the extensive refurbishment involved over 2,000 hours of work and the replacement or repair of more than 900 components, ensuring that this iconic vehicle retains its unique character while being restored to excellent condition.
The compact design of the latest MINI JCW makes it particularly enjoyable to navigate through the challenging curves of Japan's Irohazaka Road, as documented in a photo shoot for its appearance at the Japan Mobility Show. This hot hatch is powered by a four-cylinder engine paired with a dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the driving experience is enhanced by the road's stunning scenery and numerous hairpin turns.
Toyota continues to thrive financially, largely due to its extensive hybrid offerings, while effectively navigating US tariff issues amidst fluctuating global electric vehicle sales. The company is also exploring innovative mobility solutions through its Woven City project near Mount Fuji, which serves as a testing ground for advanced technologies and aims to integrate them into everyday life.
The family of a couple who died in a crash involving a 2022 Bentley Flying Spur at the Rainbow Bridge has initiated legal action against the manufacturer, claiming a malfunction in the vehicle's throttle system led to uncontrollable acceleration. The lawsuit highlights that the car's electronic throttle control allegedly failed, resulting in a catastrophic collision with a customs booth, which subsequently ignited a fire.
A Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VII, prominently featured in "2 Fast 2 Furious", was one of four specially modified vehicles created for the film, designed to closely resemble the then-upcoming Evo VIII. This particular car stands out as the only one among the group equipped with significant performance enhancements, allowing it to deliver 330hp, as it heads to auction this week with an estimate of around $300,000-$600,000.
Motorists traveling on Interstate 5 in northern San Diego County may have observed a unique four-mile stretch featuring both traditional white and distinctive orange lane markings. This initiative, part of a Caltrans pilot program aimed at improving safety in construction zones, has shown promising results, with a significant number of drivers reporting heightened awareness and a tendency to reduce speed.
A high-speed incident involving a Ferrari Purosangue occurred in Argentina, resulting in the car rolling approximately 400 meters after the crash. The event, part of the annual Cavalcade, was abruptly canceled due to reckless driving concerns, with authorities noting that multiple participants had been cited for dangerous behavior prior to the accident.
Tim Fabrizio, known as The Barn Find King, faced a challenging task when he sought to locate a long-lost Porsche 911S for a client's family, armed only with a vintage photograph and a vague history. After extensive outreach to car enthusiasts and local shops, he discovered the disassembled vehicle just miles from its last known location, ultimately reuniting the grandson with his grandfather's cherished car.
Transporting excavators often leads to accidents involving bridges, and a recent incident in Osage County, Kansas, stands out due to the excavator's arm piercing the bridge deck. The Caterpillar 323, weighing over 55,000 pounds, caused significant damage, resulting in the closure of the South Morrill Road Bridge on US Highway 75, which will require extensive repairs and may disrupt local traffic flow.
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