When you think of rugged off-road adventures, the names Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco usually come to mind. But what if a family-friendly SUV could surprise you with its trail-ready abilities? That’s exactly what happened when the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro hit the hilly terrain of Holly Oaks Off Road Vehicle Park in Michigan. This three-row midsize crossover proved it has more to offer than just comfort and style, it has the grit to handle real off-road challenges.
2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Stands Out
The focus keyword 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro captures a vehicle designed to push boundaries. While Hyundai has long been known for practical and reliable vehicles, the XRT Pro is an exciting step into a new space: adventure-ready SUVs. Even though it’s not meant for extreme rock crawling, this trim gives families and drivers the confidence to enjoy trails, hills, and rough terrain without leaving comfort behind.
Off-Road Performance That Surprises
During a test drive at Holly Oaks, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro handled steep climbs, sharp descents, and uneven paths with steady ease. With 8.4 inches of ground clearance and skid plates for added protection, the SUV avoided most scrapes and bumps, proving it could hold its own on dirt and gravel trails.
Hyundai engineers included off-road features like mud, sand, and snow terrain modes, downhill brake control, and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. These tools made it easier for the Palisade to adjust to changing trail conditions. A forward ground-view camera, pitch-and-roll display, compass, and elevation monitor added confidence, even when cresting steep hills with no clear sight of what lay ahead.
Comfort Meets Capability
One of the most impressive aspects of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is that it blends trail capability with passenger comfort. While speeds were kept low on the test drive, the ride felt smooth and composed. Passengers weren’t jostled around excessively, and the cabin maintained its refined feel. It’s not a hardcore off-road machine, but it’s versatile enough to give families adventure without sacrificing comfort.
Powerful Engine and Transmission
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It delivers 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, which proved more than enough for the trails tested. While it won’t match the raw power of traditional off-road icons, it offers a strong balance between daily driving and weekend adventure.
Fuel economy comes in at 19 mpg combined (16 city and 22 highway), slightly less than the Calligraphy trim, but understandable given its off-road equipment. For families considering an SUV that does it all, these numbers are still respectable.
Design and Features That Inspire Confidence
Hyundai gave the 2026 Palisade XRT Pro a bold design with rugged elements that set it apart from its more urban-focused siblings. The Cast Iron Brown color showcased on the test model highlighted its adventurous side. Features like front and rear recovery hooks add practicality, while the XRT Pro’s stance and trim details give it a commanding presence on and off the road.
Price Point for the Adventure-Ready SUV
The model tested carried a sticker price of $51,110, which included carpeted floor mats and inland freight and handling. For buyers looking at large family SUVs, this puts the Palisade XRT Pro in competitive territory. Considering the extra off-road equipment and Hyundai’s reputation for value, it feels like a fair price for an SUV capable of blending city living with off-road adventures.
Who Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro For?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro isn’t for hardcore off-road enthusiasts chasing extreme trails. Instead, it’s ideal for families who want a safe, stylish, and spacious SUV that can also handle weekend adventures. Whether it’s tackling muddy trails, driving on snowy roads, or taking a trip to the lake, the XRT Pro delivers confidence in every scenario.
FAQs About the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro
- Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro a real off-road vehicle?
It’s not designed for extreme off-roading like a Jeep Wrangler, but it’s equipped with terrain modes, skid plates, and 8.4 inches of ground clearance, making it capable of handling moderate trails and rough roads. - What engine does the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro have?
It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. - How much does the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro cost?
The tested model was priced at $51,110, including freight and handling. - Does the Palisade XRT Pro prioritize comfort or ruggedness?
It balances both. The Palisade XRT Pro is comfortable and spacious for families but also rugged enough for weekend off-road adventures. - What makes the XRT Pro trim different from other Palisade trims?
The XRT Pro adds trail-focused features like terrain modes, downhill brake control, a limited-slip differential, recovery hooks, and enhanced ground clearance.
Conclusion: The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro proves that adventure doesn’t have to mean compromise. It’s a family SUV with the space and comfort you expect from Hyundai, plus the capability to take on dirt trails, snowy roads, and outdoor adventures. While it won’t replace the Jeep or Bronco on extreme terrain, it’s the perfect fit for families who want the best of both worlds. With a competitive price and a long list of features, the Palisade XRT Pro is ready to carve its place in the off-road-capable SUV market.
Disclaimer: This article is based on available reports and firsthand test drive accounts. It is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not represent official endorsements from Hyundai.
