The XRT PRO marks a new design approach for Hyundai
Hyundai has revealed its three-row 2026 Palisade SUV during media days at this week’s New York International Auto Show, and the model’s lineup, which includes a debut hybrid powertrain, features a new off-road-focused trim named the XRT PRO. The South Korean automaker has released previous XRT models, but this variant will be its first to have the XRT PRO badge and is designed with US consumers in mind. According to Hyundai, the XRT PRO has more off-road-minded hardware and software enhancements than any of its previous vehicles. This SUV’s front end features red recovery hooks, also present on the rear, and a more muscular lower fascia compared to the non-XRT PRO 2026 Palisades. XRT PRO drivers also receive an extra inch of ground clearance complemented by improved approach, departure, and breakover angles, off-road terrain tires, and a factory-installed tow hitch housed in a concealed panel.
Hyundai
Enough power to get you through the dirt
Under the hood of the XRT PRO will be the 2026 Palisade’s newly developed 3.5-liter V6 instead of the hybrid powertrain, producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Towing capacity is competitive at 5,000 lbs and can be used alongside a dedicated tow mode. Hyundai will build its 2026 Palisade in Ulsan, South Korea, and XRT PRO models are scheduled to arrive at dealers in early summer. Olabisi Boyle, SVP of product planning and mobility strategy at Hyundai Motor North America, said in a release: “It’s [2026 Palisade XRT PRO] got space for your crew, capability when the road gets rough, and the kind of comfort, style, and efficiency that proves luxury doesn’t have to come with a luxury price. We wanted to deliver a vehicle where affordability can meet lifestyle, no matter where off-road you want to go.”
Hyundai
Looks to match the brawn
Design-wise, the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO receives model-exclusive 18-inch dark-finish alloy wheels and dark accents on its grille, window surround, and cladding. Inside, you’ll find leatherette seating surfaces with front-row heating and ventilation, ambient lighting, a heated steering wheel, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. All-wheel drive (AWD) is standard on the XRT PRO, and new modes like mud, sand, snow, and terrain further its off-road capability. Real-time pitch and roll, compass, and elevation displays help keep you on the right path, while the XRT PRO-exclusive rear electronic limited-slip differential optimizes stability and traction on challenging surfaces.
Final thoughts
One valid complaint regarding previous XRT trims from Hyundai, which have been part of models like the Santa Fe, is that their off-road designs featured rugged stylistic cues but didn’t offer actual capability. Now, Hyundai is changing its approach by premiering the XRT PRO Palisade with equal parts off-road form and function. With the Palisade receiving its first-ever hybrid powertrain and the XRT PRO for its 2026 production year, Hyundai is putting itself in a favorable position to build on the preceding Palisade’s success, which concluded its best-ever sales year in 2024, up 23% from 2023. While Hyundai hasn’t yet announced a starting price for the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO, it’s expected to hold a base price of around $51,000.