Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro en route

Hyundai has revealed plans to inject a large dose of off-road ruggedness into its road-going SUV range with its new XRT Pro moniker. Set to debut as a variant within the updated Palisade range in early 2026, the kit won’t just comprise bolt-on bits and new decals, according to Hyundai Australia, as the brand makes a play for weekend warriors and 4x4 enthusiasts.

It started with the beefed-up Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in 2024 and now the Korean brand is doubling down, confirming the XRT Pro off-road sub-brand that will elevate Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade SUVs with some off-road machismo.

The first example of the XRT Pro variant was on display at the recent launch of the Palisade large SUV in production-ready form.

Fitted with unique 18-inch rims and an all-terrain Continental tyres (255/60R18), the Palisade XRT Pro also sports revised facias with external tow hook points front and rear, unique matte black paneling on the sills and XRT Pro badging inside and out.

Though details weren’t forthcoming, Hyundai Australia suggested that the XRT Pro’s updates won’t necessarily be limited to cosmetic items.

The Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro was revealed earlier this year at the 2025 New York motor and sits 25mm higher than the standard model thanks to a lift kit, taking ground clearance to 213mm.

Revised front and rear bumpers deliver improved approach and departure angles for tackling tougher terrain, with approach geometry at 20.5 degrees, departure at 22.4 degrees, and breakover at 18.3 degrees.

A factory-installed tow hitch with concealed panel is also part of the package.

Engine power is sent to all four wheels via Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which now includes an XRT Pro-exclusive rear electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) for improved traction.

New terrain modes for mud, sand, and snow complement existing features like Downhill Brake Control and tow mode.

The Surround View Monitor has a forward ground view while real-time pitch and roll, compass, and elevation displays are designed to help drivers navigate challenging conditions.

Unlike other companies including Toyota, Nissan and Volkswagen, Hyundai Australia has never released a localised variant of one of its cars with additional power or torque from factory; something that we think won’t change with the launch of the XRT Pro variant.

Pricing and final details of the XRT Pro line-up haven’t been confirmed as yet, but expect to see the Palisade XRT Pro to arrive early 2026.

It remains to be seen how Hyundai will market and promote the Palisade XRT Pro and its Tucson and Santa Fe cousins but given these are now standalone models and not dealer-fitted upgrades like the previous Santa Fe XRT, it's likely they'll take pride of place in Hyundai showrooms nationwide.

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