2026 Hyundai Palisade Becomes Bigger & Bolder With New Hybrid Engine, XRT Pro Model

The Hyundai Palisade is comfortable, feature-rich, and a reliable family SUV. However, with the new XRT Pro model, the Palisade has become even more robust, boasting impressive off-road capabilities. Hyundai has revealed its 2026 Palisade XRT Pro model at the New York International Auto Show, introducing its first XRT Pro model to redefine family adventure trips.

As SUV is built with a primary focus on delivering unparalleled off-road performance, it comes standard with an all-wheel-drive system and is backed by a rear electronic limited-slip differential and an all-wheel drive lock. However, Hyundai has offered only a 3.5-liter V6 naturally aspirated direct-injected engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which delivers 287 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This single-engine option is configured with the HTRAC AWD system. This powertrain option ensures a maximum towing capacity of 2267 kg, allowing families to haul various weekend toys.

Hyundai has also upgraded the tires by offering standard all-terrain tires wrapped around 18-inch dark-finish alloy wheels. The automaker stated that the XRT Pro variant has up to 8.2 inches more ground clearance than standard variants due to its suspension lift. There are updated front and rear bumpers to improve the approach and departure angles, ensuring the SUV can efficiently navigate various obstacles. There are multiple drive modes, such as Snow, Mud, and Sand, to make the off-road drive even more responsive.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro variant looks completely different from its previous counterparts. It gets a chrome accent across its front grille and continues to feature its signature DRLs and taillights. While the XRT was offered in Black, Grey, and White color options, the new XRT Pro offers a more diverse color palette, including Earthy Brass Matte.

The new Palisade has become more technologically equipped as it features a surround-view camera system with a ground view, blind-spot monitoring, real-time pitch/roll/compass/elevation display, heated and ventilated front seats, synthetic leather upholstery, a 14-speaker Bose audio system, ambient lighting, and 115-volt household outlet as standard. Now, the captain’s chair has become standard, ensuring comfortable seating for up to seven passengers.

Since the Hyundai Palisade SUV is already available in the UAE, the new XRT Pro variant is also expected to launch in the country after its launch in the US. The 2026 Palisade XRT Pro will become available in the US by mid-year.