Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO : The Three-Row That Actually Wants to Get Dirty
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO is not just another mall crawler. Consequently, it represents a bold shift for a vehicle that usually dominates suburban carpool lanes. Most people know the Palisade as a plush, tech-heavy family cruiser. However, for 2026, Hyundai is leaning into the “overland” trend with a trim that actually backs up its rugged looks. We took it for a spin to see if it truly handles the dirt or if it’s just playing dress-up.
The Heart of the Beast: V6 Power
Under the hood, you will find a familiar 3.5L V6 engine. This powerplant delivers 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers sound decent, the SUV feels more “adequate” than “athletic” on the road. For instance, the 8-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but it doesn’t rush to get you up to speed. Our test drive confirmed that merging onto the highway requires a heavy foot.
Furthermore, the standard HTRAC all-wheel-drive system works seamlessly in the background. It distributes power effectively, especially when the pavement ends. On the other hand, the V6 lacks the low-end punch some enthusiasts might expect from a “PRO” off-roader. Besides, at highway speeds, you might notice a bit more road noise than in the standard Palisade. This is largely due to the more aggressive tire tread.
Getting Dirty: Real Off-Road Hardware
The XRT PRO isn’t just about blacked-out trim and plastic cladding. Instead, Hyundai gave it a 1-inch suspension lift. This brings the total ground clearance to 8.4 inches. While that won’t help you crawl over boulders at Moab, it is perfect for rutted forest roads. Consequently, you can head to that secluded campsite with much more confidence.
Additionally, the XRT PRO features 18-inch wheels wrapped in 30-inch Continental Terrain Contact A/T tires. These tires provide a significant grip advantage on loose surfaces like mud or sand. Meanwhile, the electronic rear limited-slip differential (e-LSD) helps push torque to the wheel with the most traction. This is a game-changer for a vehicle in this class. Most three-row crossovers rely solely on brake-based traction control. In contrast, the Palisade XRT PRO feels proactive.
However, we must be realistic. There is no low-range transfer case here. Furthermore, the underbody protection is minimal. You should think of this as a “minimum viable off-roader.” It excels at snowy mountain passes and muddy trails. But, if you are looking for a rock-crawling monster, you might want to look elsewhere.
The Tech-Forward Cabin
Inside, the 2026 Palisade XRT PRO balances ruggedness with luxury. The dual 12.3-inch displays look sharp and respond quickly. We particularly appreciate that Hyundai kept physical buttons for climate and audio controls. Consequently, you don’t have to menu-dive while navigating a bumpy trail.
The mountain-motif stitching on the seats is a nice touch. It reminds you that this SUV has an adventurous spirit. The second-row captain’s chairs provide plenty of room for adults. However, the third row remains a bit tight for tall passengers. On the plus side, the cargo space is generous. You get 19 cubic feet behind the third row, which expands to 46 cubic feet when you fold it down. This is ideal for hauling camping gear or a week’s worth of groceries.
The Green Reality Check: Missing the Hybrid
From a Green Living Guy perspective, there is a glaring omission here. Hyundai offers a fantastic hybrid powertrain for the 2026 Palisade. It pumps out 329 horsepower and achieves roughly 29 mpg. Unfortunately, you cannot get the hybrid in the XRT PRO trim. This feels like a missed opportunity.
Consequently, the XRT PRO is stuck with the V6’s thirst. The EPA estimates are 16 city, 22 highway, and 19 combined. During our test drive, we struggled to hit that 19 mpg average. The lift and the all-terrain tires create more drag, which hurts efficiency. Besides, when competitors are moving toward electrified off-roaders, the XRT PRO feels a bit old-school.
We would love to see Hyundai pair their electric vehicle technology with this rugged hardware in the future. Imagine silent, high-torque trail riding without the tailpipe emissions. Until then, you are choosing capability over carbon footprint.
The Verdict: Who is it for?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO is a niche offering. It is designed for the family that spends their weekends outdoors. If you need three rows but also want to explore dirt roads, this is a strong contender. It offers more legitimate capability than the standard Hyundai SUV lineup.
However, the fuel economy is a tough pill to swallow. Furthermore, the lack of a hybrid option might push eco-conscious buyers toward other brands. In comparison to the Kia Telluride X-Pro, the Palisade feels slightly more refined but just as capable. It is a comfortable, high-tech fortress that isn’t afraid to get a little mud on the tires.
In short, the XRT PRO is a great “gateway” off-roader. It gives you the confidence to go further than a standard crossover. Just be prepared for the extra visits to the gas station. If you want more tips on balancing adventure with sustainability, check out our guide to eco-friendly travel.
Outside Sources:
- Hyundai USA Official Palisade Page
- Car and Driver: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Review
- Bloomberg Green: The Rise of the Adventure SUV
