The Ineos Grenadier has emerged as a serious contender in the off-road SUV market, capturing the attention of enthusiasts and experts alike. For those unfamiliar with Ineos, you’re not alone. Many, including seasoned automotive reviewers, were in the dark until recently. Descriptions of this rugged vehicle started circulating, sparking curiosity and prompting the question: what exactly is the Ineos Grenadier? The answer lies in a blend of old-school toughness with modern engineering, a vehicle built with purpose and a no-nonsense approach to off-road capability. The buzz intensified with announcements that reputable dealerships, like Sewell in Plano, TX – a name synonymous with quality and customer service – were embracing the brand. When a dealer group with Sewell’s pedigree takes notice, it’s a clear signal that something noteworthy is happening in the automotive world. Adding to the anticipation, Ineos’s commercials during major sporting events like the Olympics further cemented their arrival on the global stage.
Ineos, the parent company, is a global giant in petrochemicals, with a massive operation spanning 194 sites across 29 countries and generating billions in revenue. Beyond chemicals, their diverse portfolio includes involvement in energy, construction, and even sports, showcasing a company with vast resources and bold ambitions. The Grenadier represents Ineos’s foray into vehicle manufacturing, a project driven by a passion for creating a truly capable and durable 4×4. Inspired by the spirit of its namesake London pub where the concept was born, the Ineos Grenadier is designed to be robust and resilient, built with top-tier components and engineered for function above all else. This isn’t just a side project; it’s a serious business venture aimed at delivering an unparalleled vehicle for those who demand reliability and performance in any condition and terrain.
Enter the 2024 Ineos Grenadier Fieldmaster Edition, the model put to the test in this review. The Fieldmaster trim, named after the iconic Belstaff Fieldmaster Jacket, embodies a blend of classic design and modern functionality, geared towards outdoor adventures. Looking ahead, the Quartermaster pickup variant is also slated for release, promising to expand the Grenadier’s appeal and utility.
Positioning the Grenadier in today’s market requires a nuanced understanding. It’s not aiming to be a flashy status symbol like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, nor is it simply a retro throwback. Instead, the Ineos Grenadier carves its own path, offering a compelling alternative to vehicles like the Land Rover Defender, appealing to those who prioritize genuine off-road capability and rugged dependability over urban posing. Ineos’s goal appears to be straightforward: to have the Grenadier recognized for what it truly is – a remarkably solid and over-engineered SUV that delivers exceptional performance and value.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Ineos Grenadier departs from current trends by eschewing electric or hybrid powertrains in favor of a robust and proven internal combustion engine. Ineos partnered with BMW, a renowned engine manufacturer, selecting a 3-liter turbocharged straight-six engine. This powerplant, coupled with an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, produces a substantial 281 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. While the Grenadier’s acceleration isn’t blistering – 0 to 60 mph times are not its primary focus given its nearly 6,000-pound weight and full-time 4-wheel drive system – the power delivery is strong and consistent. The Grenadier’s gearing suggests it’s built for towing and hauling, capable of handling heavy loads without strain. This powertrain configuration underscores the Grenadier’s focus on durability and capability, essential attributes for serious off-road and utility applications.
Exterior Design: Rugged Functionality
The Grenadier’s exterior design immediately commands attention. During the test drive, it garnered considerable interest from onlookers, a testament to its unique and purposeful aesthetic. Modern LED headlights provide excellent illumination while maintaining a classic round fog light design integrated into the prominent horizontal grille. Flat, Wrangler-esque fenders and a raised, sculpted hood, proudly displaying the Ineos emblem, contribute to its assertive stance. The front end is designed for functionality, with ample venting for engine cooling and robust front tow hooks, complemented on the test vehicle by an electric winch – a practical addition for any serious off-roader.
Moving to the side profile, the Grenadier features 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with Goodrich K02 tires, emphasizing its off-road readiness. The roofline subtly rises towards the rear, incorporating a substantial roof rack system designed for heavy-duty use and compatible with accessories like awnings. A distinctive feature is the “Exterior Utility Belt” running along the doors and rear, providing attachment points for gear and accessories – an innovative touch for outdoor enthusiasts. Step bars are included, necessary given the vehicle’s impressive ground clearance. Despite its seemingly top-heavy appearance, the Grenadier’s handling defies expectations. The door handles, employing a thumb-operated lever, are a nod to classic, robust design.
The rear of the Grenadier is equally purposeful, featuring a full-size spare tire with a cover, a sturdy ladder providing access to the roof, and round LED taillights reminiscent of a bullseye design. A thick steel bumper houses rear tow hooks and a trailer hitch, further emphasizing its utility. The rear door configuration is unique: a smaller door on the left for quick access to the cargo area and a larger door on the right that opens wide, creating a massive opening for loading larger items.
Interior and Technology: Functional and Comfortable
Stepping inside the Grenadier reveals a surprisingly well-appointed interior that balances ruggedness with comfort. Given its off-road focus, the initial expectation might be for a spartan cabin, but the Fieldmaster Edition offers a refined experience. The first standout feature is the grey and black leather Recaro seats. These seats are not only visually appealing but also offer excellent support and bolstering with heavy-duty stitching, a premium touch unexpected in such a utilitarian vehicle. However, the true showstopper is the overhead control panel. Inspired by aircraft cockpit design, it is an array of switches and controls reminiscent of a Boeing 747, creating an undeniably impressive and functional aesthetic.
This overhead panel houses upfitter switches, catering to users who plan to add aftermarket accessories such as light bars and winches. It also integrates controls for locking differentials and off-road switchgear, centralizing essential functions for off-road driving. This panel is mirrored by a similar panel beneath the central touchscreen, which manages climate controls, heated seats, park assist, start/stop deactivation, and radio volume. Exposed screws throughout these panels contribute to the overall rugged and industrial design theme.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system adopts a user-friendly approach, offering both touch input and a rotary knob on the center console for navigation. The monochrome display prioritizes clarity and readability over flashy graphics. Notably, the instrument cluster is fully integrated into this screen, including the speedometer – a departure from traditional layouts. A smaller driver information screen behind the steering wheel is reserved for warning lights. While the centrally located speedometer might seem unconventional, it proves surprisingly intuitive in practice.
The touchscreen displays a comprehensive range of information, including fuel levels, range, engine temperature, tachometer, and odometer, all positioned for easy driver visibility. The right side of the screen provides access to menus for off-road data, phone/Bluetooth connectivity, road sign recognition, audio, and vehicle settings. It also displays external temperature and altitude, and supports Apple CarPlay. The off-road pages offer real-time data such as pitch and roll angles, wheel angle, and G-force readings. The settings menu allows customization of various vehicle functions, including lighting and safety features, with the ability to disable speed limit warnings. Adding to the functional aesthetic, a compass with an altimeter is centrally located below the main screen.
The center console houses the BMW-sourced ZF transmission shifter, a lever for engaging 4-wheel drive high and low ranges, and the rotary controller for the touchscreen. Shortcuts for menu, audio, radio favorites, and off-road pages are also conveniently located here. Practical features include generously sized cupholders and a lockable center console that doubles as an armrest.
Steering wheel controls provide access to cruise control, audio adjustments, and voice command activation. A unique feature on the right-hand controls is a red “TOOT” button – a polite horn intended for cyclists and pedestrians. The standard horn is located in the center of the steering wheel. This dual-horn system is a thoughtful addition, potentially mitigating road rage in urban environments.
The rear seating area is spacious and understated, benefiting from the raised roofline that provides ample headroom. Rear seats are upholstered in the same high-quality Nappa leather as the front, also Recaro-branded. Rear passengers are catered to with dedicated air conditioning vents, USB-A and USB-C ports, and a power outlet. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats enhance cargo versatility.
Utility and Cargo Space
The Grenadier excels in utility, offering a cavernous cargo area. With the rear seats upright, it provides a substantial 41 cubic feet of storage, expanding to 71 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The height and width of the cargo area are particularly impressive.
A 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area adds further practicality for powering accessories.
Standard Equipment and Key Features
The test Grenadier Fieldmaster came equipped with the Smooth Pack, standard on all Grenadiers, which includes essential features like a rearview camera, front park assist, power heated mirrors, heated windshield washer jets, a lockable central storage box, puddle lamps and ambient door lighting, auxiliary charge points, and an advanced anti-theft alarm and immobilizer. It also featured the Rough Pack, adding locking differentials and Goodrich tires, enhancing its off-road capabilities. A roadside emergency kit is standard with every Grenadier.
Other notable features included the front power winch, side step bars, floor mats, heavy-duty load space flooring, and Safari Windows in the roof above the front seats. While the Safari Windows are a unique touch, their tinted glass still allows significant heat intrusion in hot climates, potentially increasing air conditioning load. Features not included on the test vehicle were blind spot warning, navigation system, ventilated seats, remote start, and power-adjustable front seats – all manually operated.
Chassis and Off-Road Prowess
Beneath the Grenadier’s body lies a robust box-section ladder-frame chassis, available in various colors for customization, although the functional benefit of this is debatable. It features beam axles, a two-speed transfer case, permanent four-wheel drive, and locking center and rear differentials. In terms of off-road hardware, the Grenadier appears to match or exceed the capabilities of the current Land Rover Defender.
Ride and Handling: On and Off-Road Dynamics
The on-road driving experience of the Ineos Grenadier is distinct. Having owned Land Rovers previously, the reviewer notes the Grenadier’s unique character. The hydraulically assisted recirculating ball steering system, sourced from Bosch, provides robust and reliable performance, particularly advantageous in challenging off-road conditions. However, on pavement, it requires some acclimation. While precise, it lacks the direct feedback of rack-and-pinion systems. The turning radius is also wider than typical modern SUVs, but manageable.
Acceleration, while not rapid, is steady and adequate, considering the vehicle’s weight. The Grenadier reaches speed in a composed manner, but outright speed is not its priority, with an electronically limited top speed of 99 mph. Fuel economy is predictably low for a vehicle of this type, at 15 mpg city, 15 mpg highway, and 15 mpg combined.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the Grenadier impresses with its smooth ride and surprisingly quiet cabin. Road and tire noise from the Goodrich K02s are minimal, contributing to a comfortable driving experience. The ride quality is genuinely smooth, and handling is commendable for a vehicle of its size and off-road focus. Visibility is excellent, and the driving position provides a commanding view of the road.
Availability and Ordering
Sewell Ineos in Plano, TX, reports strong sales, moving 50 to 60 Grenadiers per month. Inventory levels are healthy, partially due to initial order delays that led some customers to seek immediate availability rather than wait times. Currently, custom orders for dealer stock are not available, but individual customer orders are the primary route to purchase. With a wide array of customization options, configuring a Grenadier to specific needs requires dealer assistance.
Pricing and Value
The price point of the Ineos Grenadier is a significant aspect of its appeal. Initial expectations for a vehicle of this caliber placed it well above $125,000, with some anticipating prices closer to $150,000, given the competition. The actual MSRP of the tested Fieldmaster Edition came in at $94,165, a surprisingly competitive figure. According to Sewell Ineos, the average transaction price is around $85,000, making the Grenadier a compelling value proposition.
Final Verdict: A Standout SUV
The Ineos Grenadier is an exceptional SUV, particularly when considering its price, off-road capabilities, interior quality, and refined driving experience. Its unique character and limited market presence further enhance its appeal. For buyers seeking a genuinely capable and distinctive SUV that stands apart from the mainstream, the Ineos Grenadier is highly recommended. Its solid construction and robust feel are evident in every aspect, from the satisfying thud of the doors closing to its confident performance on and off the road.
Pros: Interior design and quality, distinctive exterior styling, exceptional value for money.
Cons: Lack of cooled seats.
MSRP: Starting from $74,000, as tested: $94,165.
Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city/highway/combined.
Odometer reading at test: 600 miles.
Weight: 5,875 lbs (curb weight).
Spare Tire: Full-size, rear-mounted.
Dimensions: 193” L x 85” W x 81” H.
Fuel Capacity: 23.7 gallons.
Towing Capacity: 7,716 lbs.
Color: Inky Black with Scottish White roof.
Summary: A well-built, robust SUV that excels both on and off-road.
Warranty: 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper.
Assembly: Hambach, France.
Manufacturer Website: www.ineosgrenadier.com
