2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro: Off-Road POV Driving Impressions

Palisade XRT Pro Off-Road Capabilities

• 🚀 The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is presented as an off-road focused version, tested at Holly Oaks Off-Road Park.
• 💡 Key features include 8.4 inches of ground clearance, a 1-inch lift over standard models, and Continental Terrain Contact all-terrain tires.
• ⚡ The vehicle is equipped with an electronically locking rear differential and front skid plating for enhanced off-road performance.
• 🛠️ It boasts a 3.5L V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and HTRAC All-Wheel Drive.

Interior and Family-Friendly Features

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The interior is designed to be family-friendly, offering ample space in the second and third rows, with USB ports available.
• 🛋️ Comfort features include heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and Tri-Zone Automatic Climate Control.
• 📱 Dual 12.3-inch digital displays for the gauge cluster and infotainment system support wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto.
• 📦 The XRT trim offers good cargo space behind the third row, with the option to fold seats down for more utility.

Off-Road Driving Modes and Technology

• 🏜️ The vehicle features selectable drive modes, including Sand, Snow, Mud, Normal, and Sport, with Sand mode chosen for the loose surface conditions.
• 📸 Off-road pages on the screen provide useful information like tire pressures, pitch and roll angles, and drive mode status.
• 🅿️ Camera options include a Surround View Monitor with above, side, and front views, though the camera button placement is noted as a reach.
• ⚠️ The ABS system is observed to be sensitive on loose surfaces, with a recommendation for improved off-road ABS tuning.

Performance on Trail Obstacles

• ⛰️ The Palisade XRT Pro successfully navigates uphill climbs and downhill sections, demonstrating the effectiveness of its downhill brake control.
• 💨 Throttle control in Sand mode is described as linear and well-modulated, allowing for precise adjustments on loose terrain.
• 🧩 Despite some minor underbody scrapes on obstacles, the vehicle's construction and features like the rear recovery hooks and skid plating prove functional.
• 🔊 NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness) levels are noted as significantly improved, contributing to a quieter cabin experience during rough driving.

XRT Pro Specifics and Overall Impression

• 🔧 XRT Pro-specific upgrades include all-terrain tires, increased ground clearance, off-road tuned suspension, unique bumpers, and blacked-out trim.
• 🌟 The Titan Charcoal exterior color is highlighted as a sharp, stunning choice, especially with the XRT Pro finishes.
• 🚗 The vehicle offers a comfortable ride at higher speeds, with minimal rattles or squeaks despite its three-row SUV configuration.
• 👍 Overall, the redesign is considered solid, with a good balance of high-tech interior features and practical, user-friendly controls, making it a capable family crossover with enhanced off-road potential.