Genesis has unveiled a bespoke GV80 Desert Edition to honor racing legend Jacky Ickx, who recently completed his Dakar 2025 journey in the exclusive all-terrain SUV. This exceptional vehicle not only pays tribute to Ickx’s illustrious career but also highlights Genesis’ dedication to luxury, performance, and resilience in the most demanding conditions.
A Tribute to a Motorsport Icon
Marking over four decades since his historic win at the 1983 Dakar Rally, Jacky Ickx returned to the desert for the 2025 Dakar Rally in the GV80 Desert Edition. Unveiled at a prestigious event at the Genesis Wallan Showroom in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on December 31, the vehicle was presented to Ickx as part of a celebration of his 80th birthday.
Adding to the festivities, Dakar organizers gifted Ickx an “E80” sticker, symbolizing his enduring legacy in motorsport.
Design and Innovation Inspired by Adventure
The GV80 Desert Edition redefines the boundaries of luxury and off-road performance. Inspired by Jacky Ickx’s adventurous spirit, the vehicle is based on Genesis’ flagship SUV, featuring comprehensive upgrades for desert terrain.
- Distinctive Exterior: The Desert Edition boasts a wider stance, with extended arches by 40 mm to fit bespoke 20-inch forged alloy bead-lock wheels and all-terrain tires. A unique blue bodywork with a single white stripe livery reflects the iconic helmet colors of Ickx’s racing days.
- Advanced Lighting: Equipped with Genesis’ Intelligent Front Lighting System and Baja Designs-integrated auxiliary LED lights, the SUV ensures exceptional visibility in challenging conditions.
- Functional Enhancements: The roof rack features mounts for fuel canisters, sandboards, and a rooftop tent, alongside an integrated LED light bar for enhanced practicality.
Performance for Extreme Conditions
The GV80 Desert Edition is equipped with advanced engineering to tackle the harsh desert landscape:
- Adjustable Suspension: Specially designed for desert terrain, the suspension system delivers maximum ground clearance, superior damping, and enhanced stability on sand and rocky trails.
- Intelligent Drive Modes: A dedicated desert setting optimizes the powertrain for extreme off-road conditions, ensuring seamless performance.
Luxury Meets Utility
Inside, the GV80 Desert Edition combines adventure-ready features with Genesis’ hallmark luxury:
- Integrated Storage: The cargo area includes a drawer system for a full-size spare wheel, tools, emergency equipment, and additional compartments for water supplies and first aid kits.
- Comfort and Entertainment: Genesis’ signature onboard systems provide unrivaled convenience and entertainment, even in the harshest environments.
Jacky Ickx’s Role in Genesis’ Future
As a Genesis Brand Partner, Jacky Ickx’s contributions extend beyond driving. Celebrating his second year with the brand, Ickx serves as an ambassador, advisor, and diplomat, offering valuable insights as Genesis expands into motorsports.
At the launch of Genesis Magma Racing in Dubai, Ickx was named the official racing advisor, further cementing his collaboration with the brand.
A Collaboration of Excellence
The GV80 Desert Edition project was brought to life under the direction of Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Creative Officer of Genesis, in partnership with Genesis Middle East and renowned customization specialist W Motors.
