2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro gets a turbo four
Turbo torque will define the Palisade XRT Pro’s performance instead of a peaky V6The News
As expected, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Pro will be powered by a 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine Down Under as opposed to the NVES-fouling 3.5-litre V6 offered in North America. The all-terrain family hauler will also seemingly be available in seven- and eight-seat configurations when it launches in the coming months – at least according to its homologation data.
The Key Details
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro approved for local sale
- Seven- and eight-seat versions homologated
- 2.5-litre turbo-petrol engine confirmed – no peaky V6
- Expected to arrive in the coming months
- Pricing and equipment TBC
The Finer Details
According to new information published by the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts, the Palisade XRT Pro’s Santa Fe-sourced engine will output 207kW and drive all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
It’s unclear if the eight-speed will be the Santa Fe’s dual-clutch unit or a Genesis-sourced torque converter, but the XRT Pro’s off-road intent would suggest it to be the latter in the name of low-speed finesse (and longevity).
Either way, the Aussie XRT Pro will offer slightly less power but significantly more torque than the North American version seeing as the 2.5T is good for 422Nm in every other local application, and it’s all accessible from 1700-4000rpm – as opposed to the V6’s 353Nm at 5000rpm.
The 212mm of ground clearance only marks a 2mm improvement over the lesser Santa Fe XRT, but the dirt-ready Palisade ups the ante with unique bumpers that improve its approach and departure angles beyond the suspension lift.
The maximum braked towing capacity is a handy if unremarkable 2200kg (750kg unbraked).
Seven- and eight-seat configurations have been approved for sale Down Under, however we’re yet to hear if the XRT Pro is based on the established Elite or Calligraphy trims, or if it’ll carry its own unique kit list.
It will ride on 18x7.5-inch alloy wheels shod with 255/60-profile Continental all-terrain tyres and support its all-wheel-drive system with a limited-slip rear differential.
The Road Ahead
While we don’t have an exact ETA for the Palisade XRT Pro, Hyundai Australia previously locked in a third-quarter arrival (July-September) for its inbound all-terrain fun machine and confirmed the big rig will benefit from a localised chassis tune.
Pricing is also yet to be locked in, but it’d be unwise to expect the XRT Pro to retail for less than $80,000 plus on-road costs, or even $90K.
Related: Hyundai Palisade 2026 Review
Related: Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro en route
Related: Prado-slaying Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro unveiled
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