Hyundai has pulled the wraps off its first-ever XRT Pro variant with the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO. It made its public debut at the New York International Auto Show.
The XRT Pro is all about boosting off-road capability for the Palisade, building on the existing XRT theme as seen on the Santa Fe XRT, but adding significant hardware and design enhancements. For example, the ground clearance is lifted to around 213mm, and it comes with an electronic limited-slip differential at the rear for enhanced traction.
Drivers can also select a number of terrain modes for Mud, Sand, and Snow, and there’s a downhill brake control system, front and rear recovery points, and underbody visual tweaks for added rugged appeal.
Under the bonnet is a newly developed 3.5-litre V6 petrol engine, estimated to produce 214kW and 252Nm. It’s matched with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive system, along with a factory-fit tow bar and a dedicated Tow Mode – up to 2250kg towing capacity in the US market.
However, the 2026 Palisade will also be offered with a 245kW 2.5-litre turbo four-cylinder hybrid, combining two electric motors within a six-speed automatic transmission. This hybrid has been confirmed as the exclusive option for the regular 2026 Palisade in Australia, although it is yet to be confirmed for the XRT Pro.
Inside, the cabin offers H-Tex leatherette trim with heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a premium 14-speaker Bose sound system. A surround-view monitor, blind-spot view camera, and digital off-road telemetry displays reinforce the vehicle’s dual-purpose character. (Regular 2026 Palisade interior shown for reference – press images don’t show the XRT Pro interior.)
Visually, the XRT Pro features exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tyres, blacked-out exterior details, and canyon red accents to underline its off-road intent.
While Australian details are yet to be finalised, the local arm confirms the Palisade XRT Pro is scheduled to arrive in the first half of 2026.
