The family SUV market is about to get more exciting. Hyundai Australia has confirmed the upcoming Palisade will offer something special for adventure-seeking families – the XRT Pro variant. This isn’t just another trim level with fancy badges; it’s a genuinely more capable off-roader designed for Australian families who want to explore beyond the school run.
What Makes the XRT Pro Different
The Palisade XRT Pro stands apart from regular family SUVs through meaningful upgrades. Hyundai has lifted the ride height by 25.4mm, bringing total ground clearance to 213mm. That might not sound like much, but it’s the difference between scraping your undercarriage on a beach track or clearing it comfortably.
The electronic limited-slip differential is where things get serious. This tech helps maintain traction when one wheel loses grip – whether you’re pulling out of a sandy camping spot or navigating a muddy trail after rain. Combined with dedicated terrain modes for mud, sand, and snow, the XRT Pro transforms from suburban family hauler to genuine adventure companion.
Power and Performance That Works
Australian buyers will get two powertrain options, both practical for different needs. The hybrid system combines a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine with electric assistance for 246kW total output, paired with a six-speed automatic. For those wanting traditional power delivery, there’s a 207kW/422Nm turbocharged four-cylinder with an eight-speed auto.
The hybrid makes sense for most families – better fuel economy for daily driving while retaining enough grunt for highway overtaking or towing duties. Real-world performance should feel confident whether you’re merging onto the M1 or climbing mountain roads with a loaded family.
Capability Specs That Matter
| Off-Road Angles | XRT Pro Specifications |
|---|---|
| Approach Angle | 20.5 degrees |
| Departure Angle | 22.4 degrees |
| Breakover Angle | 18.3 degrees |
| Ground Clearance | 213mm |
| Wheel Size | 18-inch dark alloys |
| Tire Specification | 255/60R18 all-terrain |
Design Changes You’ll Actually Notice
The XRT Pro doesn’t rely on subtle styling tweaks. The dark-finished grille, window surrounds, and body cladding give it a purposeful look that matches its capability. Red recovery hooks front and rear aren’t just for show – they’re proper anchor points for recovery situations.
The 18-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires signal this SUV’s readiness for varied surfaces. These tires provide better traction on loose surfaces while maintaining reasonable road manners for daily driving.
Interior Space for Real Families
Inside, families can choose between seven or eight seats depending on their needs. Captain’s chairs in the second row offer easier third-row access and more comfort for longer passengers, while the bench seat maximizes capacity for larger families.
The cabin features twin 12.3-inch screens – one for instruments, another for infotainment. This setup provides clear information display while keeping controls accessible. Real-time pitch and roll displays help drivers understand the vehicle’s position during off-road adventures.
Technology That Enhances Adventure
The surround-view camera system includes forward ground view capability. This feature proves invaluable when navigating rocky sections or approaching obstacles where you can’t see the immediate path ahead from the driver’s seat.
Compass and elevation displays provide useful information during remote travel. These features, combined with the terrain modes, give drivers confidence to explore areas they might otherwise avoid.
Timeline and Market Positioning
The regular Palisade arrives in Australia during late 2025, with the XRT Pro following in the first half of 2026. This timing allows Hyundai to establish the standard model before introducing the more specialized variant.
Hyundai expects the Palisade to capture roughly 40% of sales compared to the Santa Fe’s 60%, suggesting strong demand for larger family SUVs. The XRT Pro expands this appeal to families wanting adventure capability without sacrificing everyday usability.
Why This Matters for Australian Families
Australia’s diverse landscape demands vehicles that can handle suburban streets and remote destinations equally well. The Palisade XRT Pro addresses this need by combining genuine off-road improvements with family-friendly practicality.
Unlike hardcore off-roaders that compromise daily comfort, the XRT Pro maintains the Palisade’s refined driving characteristics while adding meaningful capability. This balance appeals to families who weekend camp, explore coastal tracks, or simply want confidence during unexpected weather conditions.
The XRT Pro represents Hyundai’s commitment to understanding Australian driving conditions and family needs. It’s not about extreme off-roading; it’s about expanding where families can confidently travel together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When can I buy the Palisade XRT Pro in Australia?
A: The XRT Pro variant arrives in the first half of 2026, following the regular Palisade’s late 2025 launch.
Q: Does the XRT Pro sacrifice fuel economy for capability?
A: The hybrid powertrain maintains efficient operation while the raised ride height and all-terrain tires may slightly impact fuel consumption compared to regular variants.
Q: Can the XRT Pro handle serious off-road adventures?
A: Yes, with improved ground clearance, electronic differential, terrain modes, and better approach angles, it’s capable of moderate to challenging off-road conditions.
