Genesis Unveils Its First Extreme Off-Road Vehicle, the X Skorpio Concept 

In the Rub’ al Khali “Empty Quarter” desert in the United Arab Emirates, Genesis unveiled its new X Skorpio Concept, an off-road concept vehicle designed to perform across demanding terrain, including deserts. The X Skorpio Concept, inspired by a black scorpion, is Genesis’ first extreme off-road vehicle, purpose-built to conquer harsh terrain with cutting-edge performance and luxurious design, company officials stated in a press release.

Genesis also announced its new concept car strategy at the world premiere and showcased the X Skorpio Concept’s performance in real-world conditions alongside other concept models optimized for rugged environments, including the GV60 Outdoors Concept, GV70 Outdoors Concept and GV80 Desert Edition.

Resilience & Ability To Thrive in Harsh Environments

The X Skorpio Concept is an extreme off-road recreational vehicle. Its name, “Skorpio,” draws inspiration from a black scorpion, known for its resilience and ability to thrive in harsh environments. This ambitious creation represents Genesis’ vision to blend daring innovation with luxury, marking the next chapter for Genesis as it connects with the active lifestyle of off-road enthusiasts, noted the release.

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

The iconic arching tail of a scorpion inspired the vehicle’s tension-filled curves. The segmented armor-like panels not only evoke the protective nature of a scorpion’s exoskeleton but also enhance practicality, allowing for quick and efficient repairs in extreme environments, the company said. The sleek and functional roof air intake completes the sense of power and resilience. Genesis’ signature Two-Line design is expertly integrated into the front and rear lamps.

Luxury Meets Off-Road Functionality

Genesis designed the cabin of the X Skorpio Concept to ensure performance, comfort and safety during the physically demanding challenges of off-road adventures. Off-roading is an intense sport requiring constant alertness and physical endurance. To meet this demand, Genesis incorporated ergonomic seating, intuitive controls and climate control systems to enhance performance and reduce driver fatigue.

The instrument cluster is incorporated into the steering wheel so drivers can view it without losing sight of the landscape ahead. The interior is also equipped with a sliding display, which reconfigures between solo-rider and copiloted modes—a centered position for the driver or sliding to the passenger for copilot navigation.

Safety grab handles are prominent touchpoints, ensuring stability during rough movements, while unlimited display adjustability keeps drivers and copilots focused on navigating the terrain. Genesis says advanced communication systems complete the setup, ensuring seamless coordination even in the most remote environments.

Power & Performance of the X Skorpio Concept

Equipped with a high-performance V-8 engine, the X Skorpio Concept delivers 1,100 horsepower and 850 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle is equipped with 18-inch beadlock wheels paired with custom 40-inch off-road tires. It is also outfitted with Brembo Motorsport Brakes, providing enhanced stopping power and optimal responsiveness.

With generous approach and departure angles, a short wheelbase and a high break-over angle, the X Skorpio Concept sits on a finely tuned suspension with extreme ground clearance, allowing it to traverse the roughest terrains without compromising the vehicle’s integrity, officials stated. High-clearance fenders, durable skid plates and precision-engineered components work together to prevent the vehicle from getting stuck or damaged.

The X Skorpio Concept’s aerodynamically optimized design minimizes drag while maximizing stability, keeping the vehicle steady both on the ground and during moments of elevation. This innovative approach balances performance and control, ensuring safe landings and reliable handling.

Genesis incorporated critical safety features such as an integrated roll cage, a four-point harness system, and reinforced structural components to ensure maximum protection for drivers and passengers. Additionally, the vehicle is constructed using a combination of fiberglass, carbon fiber and Kevlar, achieving a perfect balance of durability and reduced weight.

Genesis’ Concept Car Strategy

In addition to unveiling the X Skorpio Concept, Genesis announced a comprehensive concept car strategy. The current concept car lineup includes the X Gran Coupe, X Gran Convertible G90 Wingback and the adventurous X Gran Equator Concept. Since the launch of the marque’s first concept vehicle in 2016, the New York Concept, Genesis has introduced several concept vehicles, using them as platforms for experimentation and inspiration.

Genesis chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke said, “We create concept cars to inspire and ignite authentic passion for our vision. They are designed to deepen the emotional connection with our customers by showcasing the ultimate desirability they’ve always dreamt of. At Genesis, we craft cars that drive emotional expansion, showcasing not only our design philosophy but also the future technologies that personalize and elevate lifestyles.”