Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO for the more adventurous buyer

Is the Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO any good off road

Hyundai PALISADE XRT PRO joins the PALISADE range as the first XRT PRO model for Hyundai in Australia, arriving in dealerships from September.Hyundai PALISADE XRT PRO - Exterior 017

  • PALISADE XRT PRO brings rugged design and enhanced off-road capability to Hyundai’s flagship SUV
  • Combines adventure-focused capability with comfort and refinement in Hyundai Australia’s first XRT PRO model
  • Bespoke Australian suspension tune, Continental all-terrain tyres, e-LSD and a dedicated off-roading display theme
  • Available September, priced from $79,900 (MLP)

PALISADE XRT PRO Details 

PALISADE XRT PRO pairs rugged design with genuine off-road capability, with a range of engineering enhancements designed to take Hyundai’s flagship SUV further off the beaten track.

Created with lifestyle adventure in mind, XRT PRO bridges the gap between a traditional 4WD and an all-wheel drive SUV, while retaining PALISADE’s comfort and on-road refinement.

Distinctive XRT PRO exterior and interior design gives PALISADE a more rugged character, with a unique metallic grille treatment, blacked-out exterior details, exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels and XRT PRO-specific detailing throughout the cabin.

Underneath, XRT PRO features a bespoke Australian suspension tune developed as part of PALISADE’s global tuning program, with off-road-focused hardware and geometry entirely different from Elite and Calligraphy variants.

Increased ground clearance, Continental all-terrain tyres and a rear electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) help XRT PRO tackle challenging terrain, while dedicated off-road displays and a ground-view monitor provide useful additional information and visibility.

PALISADE XRT PRO is powered exclusively by Hyundai’s smooth and potent 2.5T-GDi powertrain paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

“Renowned for its premium comfort, refinement and practicality, the PALISADE now adds an exciting new dimension to that formula with the introduction of the XRT PRO,” said Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Operating Officer, Gavin Donaldson.

“With a bespoke Australian suspension tune and enhanced off-road capability, XRT PRO gives adventurous families the freedom to explore further, without compromising the qualities that make PALISADE such a compelling flagship SUV.”

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Palisade Model Line-Up Overview

Exterior

As Hyundai’s first XRT PRO model, PALISADE XRT PRO builds on the model’s bold presence with an array of purposeful design elements that give it a distinctive, rugged character.

PALISADE’s signature front horizon light is integrated with a unique metallic grille treatment, while blacked-out details lend a purposeful image and include the exterior door handles and XRT PRO tailgate badging.

Off-road-focused hardware completes the purposeful look and includes 18-inch Continental all-terrain tyres on XRT PRO-exclusive black and machined-finish alloy wheels, a factory-fitted towbar and exposed red recovery hooks.

XRT PRO introduces the exclusive new exterior colour Titan Charcoal. It is also offered in Shimmering Silver, Ecotronic Grey, Classy Blue, Creamy White, Abyss Black and Cast Iron Brown.

Hyundai PALISADE XRT PRO - interior seating 1

Interior

PALISADE XRT PRO brings distinctive design elements to the interior, including an XRT-branded dashboard and blacked-out finishes across the controls, while retaining PALISADE’s premium ambience.

XRT PRO builds on PALISADE’s sweeping dashboard design, panoramic curved infotainment and cluster displays, four-spoke steering wheel and island-style centre console to provide an intuitive, family-focused cabin.

XRT branding extends to the black synthetic leather seat trim, with XRT emblems on the headrests and an embossed mountain-inspired pattern that reinforces XRT PRO’s adventurous character.

PALISADE XRT PRO retains the model’s spacious and versatile layout, accommodating up to eight occupants across three rows.

Designed for large families, PALISADE XRT PRO combines everyday practicality and comfort with the capability to tackle weekend adventures.

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Chassis

XRT PRO builds on the Australian-tuned PALISADE with a bespoke suspension tune featuring off-road-focused hardware and geometry that is entirely different from the standard model.

Hyundai Motor Company engineers worked in conjunction with the Australian tuning team in Sydney as part of the global tuning program for PALISADE and XRT PRO.

A localisation program was also undertaken, which evaluated a range of suspension components, including dampers, springs and anti-roll bars.

This led to the development of bespoke Australian suspension and steering tunes to suit the broad spectrum of uniquely challenging Australian road conditions.

Hyundai PALISADE XRT PRO - AWD functionality 2 collage

Off-Road Capability

PALISADE XRT PRO builds on the model’s inherently refined monocoque, increasing ground clearance to 212mm – up from 187mm – and incorporating an array of technologies engineered for greater capability in challenging terrain.

An electronic limited-slip differential (e-LSD) across the rear axle enhances drive by automatically distributing torque to the rear wheel with most traction to maintain maximum momentum in slippery conditions.

XRT PRO comes standard with Continental all-terrain tyres featuring a broad sidewall and a rugged tread pattern to maximise grip during off-road adventures and help PALISADE tackle challenging terrain.

PALISADE XRT PRO features a factory-fitted towbar and wiring connection and, when paired with the Hyundai Genuine towing accessory kit, offers a maximum braked towing capacity of 2,200kg and a maximum towball downweight of 160kg.

In addition, exposed red recovery hooks are fitted front and rear, contributing to both functionality and aesthetics.

Hyundai PALISADE XRT PRO - AWD functionality collage

PALISADE XRT PRO features a Terrain Mode system

PALISADE XRT PRO features a Terrain Mode system that supports a range of challenging conditions with three specific modes:

  • Mud
  • Sand
  • Snow

A range of off-road-focused interior features enhances both capability and the sense of adventure. These include an XRT-specific cluster display theme, which presents useful insights into vehicle dynamic characteristics while on the move.

The infotainment display also features a bespoke off-roading page, which provides a graphical presentation of key data such as pitch and roll angles, power distribution, and rear e-LSD operation to give the driver confidence during challenging manoeuvres.

Unique to XRT PRO, an innovative ground-view monitor gives the driver a uniquely clear view of the wheel trajectory during slow and controlled off-road driving.

An XRT button on the steering wheel makes it quick and easy for the driver to access the off-roading cluster and infotainment themes.

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Technical Details

SpecificationPALISADE HybridPALISADE XRT PRO
Engine2.5 T-GDi Theta III Hybrid2.5 T-GDi Theta III
Transmission6-Speed – Active On-Demand AWD8 Speed – Active On-Demand AWD
Maximum PowerEngine: 192 kW

Electric Motor: 54 kW

Combined Output: 245 kW

 207 kW
Maximum TorqueEngine: 353 Nm / Motor: 264 Nm

Combined: 460 Nm (1,800 – 4,500 rpm)

422 Nm (1,700 – 4,000 rpm)
Towing CapacityBraked:  2,000 kg

Unbraked: 750 kg

Braked: 2,200 kg [+200 kg]

Unbraked: 750 kg

Approach Angle

Departure Angle

Ramp Over Angle

18.6º

21.1º

15.5º

20.5º [+1.9º]

22.4º [+1.3º]

18.3º [+2.8º]

Ground clearance187 mm212 mm [+25 mm]

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Pricing And Aftersales

PALISADE Pricing

PALISADE VariantPowertrainSeatsPricing
Elite2.5 T-GDI Hybrid8 Seat$76,500
XRT PRO2.5 T-GDI8 Seat$79,900
Calligraphy2.5 T-GDI Hybrid8 Seat$89,828
7 Seat$90,828
Calligraphy Black Ink2.5 T-GDI Hybrid8 Seat$92,400
7 Seat$93,400

All prices are Manufacturer’s List Price (MLP) and include Luxury Car Tax (LCT) where applicable.
Price excludes delivery and on road costs.

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XRT PRO Service Pricing

Service Interval12 mths24 mths36 mths48 mths60 mths72 mths84 mths
km10k20k30k40k50k60k70k
Cost (incl. GST)$408$510$512$528$408$632$754

myHyundaiCare

myHyundaiCare is our commitment to Hyundai owners – designed to make car ownership proactive, seamless, and personalised. With Hyundai’s Genuine Service Plan, customers enjoy transparent, exclusive service pricing with no hidden fees, along with Lifetime Premium Roadside Support and Sat Nav Updates when serviced by Hyundai. Plus, there’s the reassurance of Hyundai’s 7 Year/Unlimited km vehicle warranty[H1] and 8 Year/160,000 km high-voltage battery warranty – going the extra mile and then some to deliver the care you need, exactly when you need it.

[H1] In addition to the 5 Year Standard New Car Warranty, Hyundai provides an extended warranty for up to a further 2 years, when all servicing is with Hyundai, on passenger vehicles first registered from1 June 2025. Maximum warranty is 7 years from date of first registration, on the condition that all scheduled services are completed within the specified service intervals at an authorised Hyundai dealer. Excludes Hybrid & EV drive batteries, which are warranted for 8 years / 160,000kms from the date of first registration, and vehicles used for “commercial application”, as detailed in the warranty policy. Terms, conditions and exclusions apply, view the warranty page

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Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO Specification Overview

PALISADE XRT PRO (8 Seat)

2.5 T-GDi AWD

Key Specifications:

Performance:

Airbags:

12V power outlet (Front & Cargo)
2.5 T-GDi AWDFront driverUSB Charging Ports: 7x (Front, front seatbacks & 3rd row)
Max Power: 206 kWFront passengerFront Automatic Dual Zone Climate
Max Torque: 422 Nm (1,700 – 4,000 rpm)Driver & passenger thoraxRear Automatic Single Zone Climate
Braked towing capacity: 2,200 kgFront centre sideCargo screen
Factory-fitted towbarDriver’s KneeRemote smart parking assist (RSPA)
Bespoke Australian suspension tuneSide curtain airbags

Interior:

Front brakes: 345 mm dia. x 30 mm thick

Exterior:

Electrochromic Mirror (ECM)
Rear brakes: 325 mm dia. x 20 mm thick18-inch Alloy WheelsSynthetic leather appointed seat covering
High-performance front damperRear spoiler with high mount stop light10-way power adjustable driver seat (inc. lumbar)
Self-levelling rear damperLED rear fog light8-way power adjustable passenger seat
Rear Electronic limited-slip differentialLED side mirror indicatorHeated front row

Safety:

LED rear Combination lightsVentilated front seats
Hyundai SmartSense® including:Electrically adjustable, heated outside mirrorDriver & passenger seat back pocket
Blind-spot Collision Avoidance; Rear (BCA-R)Windshield Glass: Solar & acoustic laminatedAuto Up/Down & Safety (All windows)
In Cabin Camera (ICC)Front door glass: Solar & acoustic laminatedLeather Appointed Steering Wheel
Parking Distance Warning (PDW-F/S/R)Rear door & 3rd row glass: Privacy glassHeated Steering Wheel
Parking Collision Avoidance: Reverse (PCA-R)Tailgate glass: Privacy with heated timerCloth roof & pillar trim
Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2)Recovery hooksSingle sunroof
Forward Collision Avoidance 2.0 (FCA 2.0)Black roof rail

Multimedia & Display:

Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)Front centre garnish light12.3-inch Digital Cluster
Lane Following Assist 2 (LFA 2)Dynamic welcome and escort light12.3-inch Digital Multimedia Display
Lane Keeping Assist; Line/Road-edge (LKA)Hidden lighting14 Speakers – BOSE Premium audio
Manual Speed Limit Assist (MSLA)

Convenience:

Bluelink® w/ OTA updates
Rear Occupant Alert (w/o sensor)Column Mounted shift-by-wireSatellite Navigation
Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM)Manual Tilt and Telescopic Steering Column
Surround View Monitor (SVM)Electronic parking brake with auto hold
Smart Cruise Control 2 w/ Stop & GoFull-size alloy spare wheel
Tyre Pressure Monitoring SystemSmart Key and Push Button Start
Electronic Child LocksDigital Key 2.0

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PALISADE Key Spec Comparison

SpecificationEliteXRT PROCalligraphy / Black InkBlack Ink
Seat MaterialLeatherSynthetic LeatherNappa Leather
SunroofSingle sliding sunroofDual Panel with Tilting and Sliding Front Panel
HeadliningMelange KnitClothSuede
Steering WheelManually adjustable, heatedManually adjustable, heatedElectrically adjustable, heated
Head Up DisplayYes
Wheels20-inch Alloy18-inch alloy21-inch Alloy WheelsGloss Black 21-inch

Alloy Wheels

Exterior StylingEliteXRT PROCalligraphyBlack Ink
Interior FinishMetallic Alloy finishXRT PROMetallic Alloy finishBlack Metallic Alloy finish
Premium AudioBOSE (14 speakers)
Digital Key 2.0Yes
Interior V2LYesYes
Spare WheelFull-size alloy

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Palisade XRT PRO – April 2025 update 

Hyundai Motor has revealed the all-new 2026 Palisade XRT PRO at the New York International Auto Show.

This global introduction of Hyundai’s first XRT PRO model means that Palisade is ready no matter where your next family adventure takes you.

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

  • Hyundai’s first-ever XRT PRO model
  • Palisade XRT PRO packs more off-road-capable hardware and greater design differentiation than previous-generation Palisade XRT
  • XRT PRO represents a bold step forward in ability, with increased ground clearance, rear electronic limited-slip differential, all-terrain tyres, HTRAC® all-wheel drive, terrain modes, and a built-in tow hitch

Hyundai Motor has revealed the all-new 2026 Palisade XRT PRO at the New York International Auto Show. This global introduction of Hyundai’s first XRT PRO model means that Palisade is ready no matter where your next family adventure takes you.

“The 2026 Palisade XRT PRO is for people doing it all – raising families, chasing goals, showing up every day,” said Olabisi Boyle, SVP, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America.

“We built this SUV by putting people first – thinking about real lives, real needs. It’s 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.”

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

All-new off-road-focused Palisade XRT PRO model

The entire 2026 Palisade model line is bigger, better, and more capable than ever, but for those who enjoy venturing even further off the beaten path, Palisade XRT PRO has got the goods. This rugged model is the first Hyundai to wear the XRT PRO nameplate, signifying its significantly upgraded off-road capabilities beyond prior XRT models.

XRT PRO includes more off-road-minded hardware- and software-level enhancements than any previous Hyundai model.

Palisade XRT PRO even looks the part, thanks to a uniquely muscular front end that incorporates a bold lower grille design bookended by prominent canyon red recovery hooks and a beefier lower fascia.

2026 Palisade XRT PRO - 01

XRT PRO Capability Features:

  • XRT PRO-exclusive rear electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD)
  • 8.4 inches of ground clearance (+1 inch vs. non XRT PRO models)
  • Improved approach (20.5°), departure (22.4°), and breakover (18.3°) geometry
  • All-terrain 255/60R18 tires
  • Blind Spot View Monitor
  • Surround View Monitor with forward ground view
  • Real-time pitch & roll, compass, and elevation displays
  • HTRAC® all-wheel drive
  • New Mud, Sand, and Snow terrain modes
  • Exposed functional canyon red recovery hooks front and rear
  • Downhill Brake Control
  • Tow mode
  • Factory-installed tow hitch with conceal panel

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

XRT PRO Design Features:

  • XRT PRO-exclusive 18-inch dark-finish alloy wheels
  • XRT PRO rear badging
  • XRT dark exterior accents (grille, window surround, cladding)
  • H-Tex leatherette seating surfaces with front heating/ventilation
  • Heated steering wheel
  • Bose® 14-speaker premium audio system
  • Ambient lighting
  • 115-volt power outlet
  • Power moonroof

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

New, powerful, and efficient internal-combustion powertrain

The 2026 XRT PRO boasts a newly developed 3.5-litre V6 making up to an estimated 214 kW and 252 Nm of torque. The naturally aspirated, direct-injected engine is coupled to a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission with a multi-plate torque converter.

This standard ICE powertrain is available exclusively with HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive (AWD) on XRT PRO. This V6 powertrain is targeting a robust 2,250kg maximum towing capacity, giving active families the flexibility to haul a variety of weekend toys.

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

HTRAC® with Tow Mode, Terrain modes add confidence, capability

The 2026 Palisade model range is available with Hyundai’s HTRAC® All-Wheel-Drive system with Tow Mode. This three-row SUV also includes a factory-installed, fascia-concealed OEM tow hitch. On XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy trims – another Hyundai first.

Tow Mode optimises the powertrain’s performance parameters for confident and efficient towing. Holding lower gears longer and reducing shift frequency while towing heavier loads.

For 2026, a new terrain mode controller includes Mud, Sand, and Snow settings. To give drivers extra confidence and capability in adverse terrain and weather conditions.

Additionally, the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO benefits from a model-exclusive rear electronic limited-slip differential. For increased responsiveness and traction on difficult terrain.

2026 Palisade XRT PRO

*Specifications mentioned above are based on the U.S. model Palisade XRT PRO. Features, technology and claimed figures may differ depending on the market.

AUSTRALIAN MARKET

2026 Palisade XRT PRO will launch locally (Australia) in the first half 2026, with powertrain options still to be confirmed.

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