- Genesis has launched the GV80 Desert Edition in Saudi Arabia.
- Belgian racing legend Jacky Ickx was present at the event.
- The modified SUV is rumored to tackle the 2025 Rally Dakar.
Genesis has quietly treated their ambassador, Jacky Ickx, with a special version of the GV80, reportedly designed for the 2025 Dakar Rally. The Genesis GV80 Desert Edition was handed over to Ickx in a Saudi Arabian dealership ahead of its rumored participation at the grueling race, starting in January 3.
The unique GV80 Desert Edition was launched at the Genesis Wallan dealership in Riyadh. Videos from the event were shared on the dealer’s Instagram stories, which are our only source of information for the modified SUV.
More: New Genesis GMR-001 Hypercar Aims For Le Mans Glory
The livery of the GV80 Desert Edition is inspired by Jacky Ickx’s helmet, combining a Midnight Blue shade with a white stripe on the hood and a few chrome accents. A similar treatment had been applied to the Genesis X Gran Berlinetta concept earlier this year, although this one came with gold wheels.
The rugged GV80 rides on a set of beadlock wheels which are shod in grippy tires. It also appears to sit much higher than the stock version, hinting at suspension upgrades. In the video we can see fender extensions, a roof rack with extra LEDs, and yellow lights mounted in the bumper intakes. Furthermore, Ickx can be heard talking about a night vision system that has been installed on the SUV.
The interior looks surprisingly stock, with premium materials and upholstery which are typical of the Genesis brand.
A few weeks ago, Genesis officially announced its motorsport program, aiming to compete at the WEC and IMSA championships in 2026 and 2027 respectively. The Korean Car Blog reports that the company will also tackle Rally Dakar for the first time ever in 2025, further expanding its presence in iconic events.
Jacky Ickx is a Dakar veteran, having participated numerous times in the past. In 1983, he won the event with a Mercedes-Benz 280 GE, while he has also secured two second spots in 1986 and in 1989 with a Porsche 959 Dakar and a Peugeot 405 Turbo 16 respectively.
The Belgian racing legend, who will turn 80 years old on January 1st, is widely known for his six wins at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and is often praised about his versatility in various kinds of motorsports disciplines. Besides his Le Mans and Dakar triumphs, Ickx has eight F1 victories, a Can-Am championship title, and 37 major World Sports Car wins under his belt.
Hopefully, Genesis will soon issue a proper press release with photos and information about the GV80 Desert Edition.