The Toughest Palisade Yet? Meet the New XRT PRO Off-Road SUV

Hyundai has raised the stakes for adventurous families with the all-new 2026 Palisade XRT PRO. More than just a cosmetic trim, this rugged version builds on the existing XRT by adding real off-road upgrades, tech enhancements, and a bolder visual identity that finally gives the family SUV serious trail credibility.

Under the hood is a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive comes standard. A factory tow hitch is also standard, and the Palisade XRT PRO is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This setup is not just about power—it is built to handle weekend getaways, dirt trails, and heavy gear without breaking a sweat.

What makes the XRT PRO stand out is its true off-road hardware. It sits higher than the standard Palisade with 8.4 inches of ground clearance. Approach and departure angles improve significantly to 20.5 and 22.4 degrees respectively, with a breakover angle of 18.3 degrees. An electronic rear limited-slip differential, standard all-terrain tires, and red recovery hooks on both ends make this SUV more than just a looker—it is trail-ready.

Inside, Hyundai did not skimp on comfort. You get H-Tex leatherette seats, heated and ventilated front seats, a Bose 14-speaker premium sound system, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and even a power moonroof. There is also a new multi-angle camera system with ground-level views, pitch and roll readings, and terrain data to help you confidently tackle different surfaces.

The 2026 Palisade lineup is longer, quieter, and smarter than ever. The new platform stretches the wheelbase by 2.7 inches and adds 2.5 inches to overall length. Aerodynamics improve with a 0.31 drag coefficient, while acoustic glass and special tires help reduce cabin noise.

The XRT PRO is expected to start at $50,865, placing it between the Limited and Calligraphy trims. It hits dealerships in the summer of 2025, with hybrid versions to follow in the fall.