Can This Old-School SUV Beat the Land Rover Defender?
In a world where SUVs often blur the lines between luxury and adventure, the Ineos Grenadier sets out with a clear mission: prioritizing rugged capability over comfort-driven compromises. With a starting price of $79,190 for the Fieldmaster edition, it’s a serious investment but one designed for those who seek uncompromising off-road performance.
Built for the Wild
From the ground up, the Grenadier is engineered for terrain dominance. A box-section ladder-frame chassis, beam axles, a two-speed transfer case, permanent four-wheel drive, and optional front and rear locking differentials—this is the kind of old-school off-road formula that many modern SUVs have abandoned in favor of electronic assists.
Under the hood, Ineos equips the Grenadier with BMW’s 3.0-liter straight-six petrol engine, delivering 286 horsepower, or a 249hp diesel variant available in the UK. Paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission, the powertrain is well-matched for tackling challenging landscapes with confidence.
A Workhorse That Prefers the Dirt
While the Grenadier excels off-road, its on-road manners reflect its rugged priorities. The steering, while light, could benefit from improved feedback for a more connected driving experience. The off-road tires, designed for maximum traction in the rough, contribute to noticeable road noise—an inherent trade-off with such a capable setup.
Inside, the cabin is built for durability over opulence. The front seats offer good space, but rear passengers may find legroom somewhat limited, particularly in the middle seat. The controls, heavily inspired by aviation-style switchgear, are both a highlight and an area for refinement. While the physical buttons offer a tactile, no-nonsense feel, consolidating some functions or refining their layout could enhance usability without sacrificing the vehicle’s utilitarian ethos.
The infotainment system places all driver information on a central screen—reminiscent of Tesla’s approach but with a far more analog aesthetic. This design choice adds to the vehicle’s character, but an optional digital instrument cluster in front of the driver could provide better accessibility without detracting from the Grenadier’s charm.
Where It Excels—and Where It Can Improve
Off-road, the Grenadier truly comes into its own. Its mechanical prowess and rugged suspension deliver an experience that feels more akin to piloting a vintage Land Rover than a tech-laden modern SUV. There are no excessive electronic interventions—it’s just driver, machine, and terrain. This purist approach makes it a dream for dedicated off-road enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable workhorse.
However, its premium pricing means some refinement could go a long way in making it more versatile for everyday users. Enhancing cabin comfort, refining on-road steering feel, and incorporating subtle noise-reduction improvements would make it more livable without diluting its adventurous spirit.
The Verdict
Ineos set out to create a spiritual successor to the classic Land Rover Defender, and in many ways, they have delivered. The Grenadier is unapologetically rugged, mechanically capable, and refreshingly unique in an era of soft-roaders. For those seeking a true off-road machine with heritage-inspired charm, it’s an exciting option.
That said, a few refinements—especially in everyday comfort and usability—could help broaden its appeal. The Grenadier is not a luxury SUV, nor does it try to be. Instead, it’s a bold return to what off-road vehicles once were: tough, simple, and purpose-built.
For adventurers, overlanders, and professionals who need a vehicle that can go anywhere, the Ineos Grenadier delivers. And for those considering it as a daily driver? It may require some trade-offs, but it’s hard to argue against the character and capability it brings to the road—or more fittingly, off it.
