Introduction
The three-row Hyundai Palisade has stood out in the midsize SUV segment for its blend of comfort, technology, and family-friendly practicality. Among its various trims, the Palisade XRT has earned special attention for its adventure-ready styling and capabilities. This article explores the 2025 Palisade XRT in detail, covering its features, design, performance, amenities, safety, and how it fits within the broader Palisade lineup.
Overview of the Hyundai Palisade XRT
The XRT trim is positioned as the rugged, eye-catching member within the Palisade family. It balances upscale interior amenities with athletic exterior flourishes, bridging everyday driving needs and adventurous aspirations. The 2025 Palisade XRT is available with all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard, catering to drivers who seek both utility and style.
Exterior Design and Styling
Distinctive XRT Features
The XRT package builds on the Palisade’s substantial presence with exclusive exterior touches, including:
- Unique dark-finish grille and trim accents
- Black roof rails and lower body cladding
- Specialized 20-inch wheels with a bold design
- Sportier front and rear bumpers
- Distinct XRT badging
The overall look sets the XRT apart from other Palisade trims, offering a more aggressive, off-road-inspired stance without compromising on sophistication.
Interior Comfort and Amenities
Cabin Layout and Seating
Inside, the Palisade XRT maintains a spacious three-row configuration for up to eight passengers. Highlights include:
- Comfortable cloth upholstery and robust interior accents
- Versatile second and third-row seating with easy-fold mechanisms
- Ample legroom and headroom for all rows
- Multiple storage solutions and cupholders
Technology and Connectivity
The XRT comes equipped with a modern suite of tech and convenience features designed for today’s families, such as:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Multiple USB ports and 4 12V DC power outlets
- HD Radio and a six-speaker sound system
- Bluetooth connectivity and voice recognition
Practical features such as a hands-free liftgate and rear privacy glass also enhance daily usability.
Powertrain and Performance
Engine and Transmission
The 2025 Palisade XRT utilizes a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine. This powertrain delivers:
- 291 horsepower
- 262 lb-ft of torque
- Paired with an efficient 8-speed automatic transmission
- Standard HTRAC all-wheel drive for increased confidence in varying conditions.
This configuration enables brisk acceleration, smooth highway cruising, and competent towing capabilities, making it suitable for both city and adventure use.
Ride and Handling
The Palisade XRT is engineered to provide a balanced ride. Key points include:
- Multi-link independent rear suspension for ride comfort and composure
- Enhanced ground clearance compared to standard models
- Responsive steering and braking, ideal for both urban and light off-road excursions
Safety, Driver Assistance, and Reliability
Comprehensive Safety Suite
Hyundai has equipped the Palisade XRT with an array of safety and driver assistance technologies. Some notable features include:
- Forward Collision Warning with Automatic Emergency Braking
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Parking sensors and a high-resolution backup camera
These features work together to protect passengers and ease the driving experience in traffic or challenging situations.
Build Quality and Reliability
The Hyundai Palisade is reputed for solid build quality, with reliable components and a strong warranty package. Owners can expect low operating costs and dependable performance over time.
Pricing and Value Analysis
The Palisade XRT falls between the Palisade’s entry-level and luxury-focused trims. For 2025, it offers a value-packed proposition with many of the best features from higher trims while maintaining a competitive price, often considered a “sweet spot” in the lineup for those wanting rugged looks and AWD without the highest cost.
How the XRT Fits Into the Palisade Lineup
The Palisade’s trims typically range from SE and SEL (with essential features and an affordable price) up to Limited and Calligraphy (boasting premium leather and advanced tech). The XRT stands out by adding adventure-inspired versatility and distinctive design elements, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and style-conscious buyers.
Pros and Cons of the Palisade XRT
| Pros | Cons |
| Standard AWD and increased ground clearance for versatility | Not a full off-road SUV despite its adventurous looks |
| Exclusive exterior styling for a bold, rugged look | Some luxury features require opting for higher trims |
| Strong feature set for the price point | V6 engine balances power with only moderate fuel economy |
| Smooth, powerful engine |
Conclusion
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT is a compelling choice for families and individuals who want a stylish, feature-rich SUV with a hint of ruggedness. With its standard AWD, spacious and connected interior, robust safety tech, and standout styling, the XRT occupies a unique position in the Palisade lineup. It successfully bridges the gap between everyday practicality and adventure-ready appeal, making it a well-rounded proposition in the competitive midsize SUV market.
FAQs About Palisade XRT
1. What is the Hyundai Palisade XRT?
The Palisade XRT is a rugged, adventure-inspired trim of the Hyundai Palisade SUV, featuring distinctive styling, standard AWD, and increased ground clearance.
2. How many passengers can it seat?
It offers a three-row layout that accommodates up to eight passengers comfortably.
3. What engine does the Palisade XRT have?
It comes with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and AWD.
4. Is the Palisade XRT good for off-road driving?
Yes, it’s suitable for light off-road conditions, gravel roads, and snow, but it is not a full off-road SUV.
5. What makes the XRT different from other Palisade trims?
The XRT stands out with rugged exterior styling, 20-inch wheels, black roof rails, sportier bumpers, XRT badging, and enhanced AWD capability.
6. Who should consider the Palisade XRT?
It is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a stylish, feature-rich SUV with AWD and adventure-ready versatility.
