Genesis’s Wild New Off-Roader Just Put on a Compelling First ActGear PatrolgvandykeUpdatedTue, September 15, 2026 at 10:09 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleThe Korean automaker's high-riding X Skorpio recently made an exciting European debut at the Tutto Bene hill climb.When Genesis revealed its X Skorpio Concept in January, I was … cautiously optimistic. The idea of a V8 off-road supercar from a brand better known for luxury sedans and SUVs did seem more than a little, well, aspirational.Following the latest showing, I'll concede that I'm feeling a lot less cynical. Between the roar of the X Skorpio V8 and the excitement of André Lotterer behind the wheel, it makes for a compelling first act.A paved hill climb isn't where the X Skorpio should be prowling, but it still looks badass. - Credit: GenesisA dynamic Italian showingAfter all, According to Genesis, the Tutto Bene hill climb marks the X Skorpio's first outing under dynamic track conditions.AdvertisementAdvertisementAnd that's cause for appreciation, as the vehicle talked some big game upon its debut. Genesis claimed an 1,100-horsepower output, not to mention headlining features like 40-inch tires, carbon-kevlar bodywork and four-point racing harnesses.View this post on InstagramHowever, even with (or especially because of) that kind of promise, it was hard to take seriously. It's one thing to see it on a spec sheet; it's another to hear the car and see it barrel through turns.Genesis didn't just roll up to the event for a cursory parade lap. The X Skorpio kicks up dirt, rolls from side to side and bellows out of corners.The generous off-road rubber and high-travel suspension looks all the more dramatic at speed. - Credit: GenesisIt amounts to a visceral and compelling first showing, and that's not even addressing the rest of the Genesis cast. Along with running the X Skorpio up the Tutto Bene climb, the brand put the Magma GT concept through its paces, also displaying the GMR-001 Hypercar and the Box Buggy on the sidelines.More X Skorpio to comeWhile Genesis maintains that the X Skorpio is a concept vehicle, chief creative officer Luc Donckerwolke had told Car and Driver at the debut that interested buyers had already placed orders and a limited production run was under consideration.Genesis clearly intends to bolster its performance image. - Credit: GenesisThe appearance of a functional prototype would seem to support that much. If nothing else, though, feats like the hill climb prove the brand is serious about cultivating a unique performance image.AdvertisementAdvertisementAbout the Author: Gray is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, motorcycles and anything else with wheels. When he's not chasing the latest industry news, he's probably wrenching on one of many projects. For better or worse, he believes classics make perfectly practical daily drivers.Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.