Introduction

The Ineos Grenadier is a rugged off-road SUV that revives the spirit of old-school 4x4s like the Land Rover Defender and the Toyota Land Cruiser. In a world where many SUVs are becoming more luxurious and tech-heavy, the Grenadier offers something unique—a throwback to utilitarian, boxy vehicles designed for serious off-road use. With a starting price of around $80,000, this vehicle is aimed at those who find modern SUVs too soft. Today, we’ll explore the Grenadier’s quirks, features, and driving experience to see if this no-nonsense SUV lives up to its bold claims.

Design: A Nod to the Classics

The Ineos Grenadier’s design immediately stands out for its unapologetically utilitarian aesthetic. The boxy shape, large wheel arches, and circular LED headlights all harken back to the original off-road vehicles. Unlike modern SUVs that have sleek curves and luxury-focused styling, the Grenadier stays true to its roots.
Interestingly, despite its retro appearance, the Grenadier doesn’t share any components with the old Land Rover Defender. It’s built from scratch, but the design ethos remains: functional, rugged, and ready for adventure. The Grenadier’s name even has a British connection, named after the Grenadier Pub in London where the idea for this vehicle was conceived. This sense of heritage is key to its identity.

Powertrain: Built for Adventure

Under the hood, the Ineos Grenadier is powered by a 3.0-liter BMW straight-six engine, producing 280 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. This is the same engine used in various BMW models, including the 3 Series and X3, though it’s been tuned for more torque and pulling power in the Grenadier. The result is an engine that’s less focused on speed and more on handling tough terrains and towing capabilities.
In other markets, the Grenadier is also available with a diesel engine, but in the U.S., it only comes with the gas-powered BMW engine. This engine is paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, which provides smooth shifts and is well-suited to both off-roading and highway driving. The Grenadier comes with standard four-wheel drive, making it an ideal choice for serious off-roaders.

Interior: Buttons, Switches, and More Buttons

Step inside the Grenadier, and you’ll be greeted by an interior packed with buttons, switches, and dials. Unlike most modern vehicles that rely heavily on touchscreen controls, the Grenadier opts for a more tactile approach. This gives the cabin an almost aircraft-like feel, with rows of switches and dials covering the center console and even extending to the ceiling.
The upper ceiling panel, in particular, is packed with auxiliary switches for off-road features like locking differentials, downhill descent control, and traction control. These are features serious off-roaders will appreciate, as they offer full control over the vehicle’s off-road capabilities. There are even blank auxiliary switches ready for owners to wire in additional accessories like light bars or tire inflators.

Old-School Charm with Modern Tech

Despite its retro vibe, the Grenadier doesn’t completely ignore modern technology. The infotainment system, while somewhat basic, includes features like the Pathfinder, which allows drivers to record their off-road routes and retrace them later. You also get off-road statistics, such as altitude and distance covered, which can be useful during long adventures.
However, the infotainment system is far from cutting-edge. It’s a bit slow and lacks the polish you might expect in an $80,000 vehicle. But the lack of high-end tech is intentional—the Grenadier’s focus is on durability and off-road capability rather than flashy screens. Interestingly, the Grenadier’s gauge cluster is located on the infotainment screen, with warning lights housed in a small panel behind the steering wheel. This unusual layout is designed to simplify production, allowing for easier conversion between left-hand and right-hand drive markets.

Driving Experience: Rugged and Capable

Driving the Ineos Grenadier is a unique experience, particularly in an age of highly refined SUVs. The seating position is high, and you get a commanding view of the road, much like the old Defenders and G-Wagons. The square hood adds to the retro driving feel, making it clear that this is a vehicle designed for adventure, not just commuting.
One quirk of the Grenadier is its steering. Unlike most modern vehicles, the steering doesn’t automatically return to center after a turn. You have to manually steer the wheel back into place, which takes some getting used to. However, once you adapt, it adds to the vehicle’s old-school charm.
Despite its rugged appearance, the Grenadier’s ride is surprisingly refined. It handles bumps and uneven terrain well, and the BMW powertrain provides enough power to handle city and highway driving without feeling sluggish. It’s no performance vehicle, but it’s capable enough for both off-road adventures and daily driving.

Off-Road Capabilities: Ready for Anything

Off-road performance is where the Ineos Grenadier truly shines. With its locking differentials, low-range gearing, and serious ground clearance, this vehicle is built to tackle rough terrain. The Grenadier also comes with off-road tires and steel wheels, which further enhance its off-road abilities.
One standout feature is the split tailgate. The smaller door can be opened independently, allowing for easy access to cargo without having to open the full, heavy tailgate. This thoughtful design is perfect for adventurers who need quick access to their gear. Additionally, the cargo area is spacious and boxy, providing plenty of room for equipment. The rear seats fold down for even more storage, making the Grenadier a practical choice for those who need to haul a lot of gear.

Conclusion: A Niche Vehicle for True Off-Roaders

The Ineos Grenadier is not for everyone. It’s a niche vehicle aimed at a specific type of buyer—someone who longs for the days of rugged, utilitarian SUVs but wants the reliability and power of modern engineering. If you find today’s SUVs too soft, and you’re willing to sacrifice some luxury and technology for off-road capability and a classic design, the Grenadier might be the perfect fit.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of other high-end SUVs, the Grenadier offers something they don’t—authenticity. It’s a vehicle that stays true to its off-road roots while offering just enough modern comfort to make it livable for everyday use.
For more insights and a closer look at the Ineos Grenadier, be sure to check out this in-depth video review: 2024 Ineos Grenadier Review: A New, Old $80,000 SUV.