The story of Ineos Automotive is unique, born from an ambitious vision by Jim Ratcliffe, the chairman of the British chemical giant Ineos. In 2017, as he noticed a gap in the market for a true 4×4 combining robustness and modern technology, Ratcliffe decided to create a vehicle that would meet this demand. His inspiration came directly from the Land Rover Defender, which ceased production in 2016. After several years of development and taking ownership of the former Smart factory in France, Ineos launched its first off-road vehicle: the Ineos Grenadier. This model was designed with the help of automotive specialists like Magna Steyr and aims to combine the spirit of classic 4x4s with the modern demands of performance and reliability. After having the opportunity to test this vehicle, we present a detailed review of the Ineos Grenadier, from its performance to its price.
Dimensions and Exterior Design: Built for Tough Terrain
The Ineos Grenadier makes a striking entrance to the market with its imposing dimensions: 4.90 meters in length and 2.04 meters in height. Its exterior design, inspired by the classic Land Rover Defender but in a wider and more robust version, emphasizes its utilitarian purpose. Its cubic shape maximizes cargo space and offers excellent approach and departure angles, making it a highly capable vehicle off-road.
This functional design is enhanced by optional features such as utility rails, a roof rack, and 17- to 18-inch wheels fitted with BFGoodrich tires for the Trialmaster version. These features allow the Grenadier to stand out as a true off-roading machine, ready to tackle all kinds of terrain.
Interior Design and Ergonomics: A Functional, Driver-Focused Cabin
Inside, Ineos took a pragmatic approach, opting for a multitude of physical buttons placed thoughtfully throughout the cabin. This decision goes against the current trend of favoring touchscreens, but it proves to be a true success. The buttons are practical, even when wearing gloves, and their use becomes intuitive after a brief period of adaptation.
The dashboard, with its minimalist design, features a large 12.3-inch touchscreen that displays all necessary information without overwhelming the driver. The instrumentation is kept to the essentials, promoting focused driving. Recaro seats, both comfortable and supportive, are another highlight of the interior, contributing to comfort on long journeys.
Engine Options: Power and Efficiency for Every Need
The Ineos Grenadier is offered with two BMW engines: a 249-horsepower diesel engine and a 286-horsepower petrol engine. The diesel engine, with its impressive 550 Nm of torque starting at 1,250 rpm, stands out for its robustness and ability to tackle tough terrains. The petrol engine, on the other hand, provides a smoother performance with a pleasant sound and a bit more power.
Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission from ZF, ensuring smooth and efficient gear shifts. However, the transfer case, which sometimes reacts slowly in off-road mode, could be improved to provide a more responsive experience when tackling difficult obstacles.
Driving Experience: Comfort and Capability, Off and On the Road
On the road, the Ineos Grenadier is far from a sports car, but it offers a pleasant driving experience, especially with the diesel version, which delivers generous torque. The steering, although adapted for off-roading with its marked ratio, can feel vague on the road, which may make corners more difficult. The turning radius of 13.5 meters, relatively large, limits maneuverability, especially in urban spaces.
However, it’s off-road where the Grenadier truly shines. Its permanent all-wheel drive, locking central differential, and optional locking front and rear differentials allow it to overcome obstacles with ease. However, its width and weight can pose problems in tight passages, and it is not as agile as competitors like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota Land Cruiser.
Price in Belgium: Premium Pricing for a Rugged 4×4
The Ineos Grenadier’s price in Belgium starts around €67,000 for the two-seat utility version, with prices climbing up to €82,490 for the high-end Trialmaster version. These prices place the Grenadier in the premium range, comparable to the Land Rover Defender, but with a more utilitarian focus and less emphasis on comfort. While the utility version avoids the ecological penalty, higher-end versions come with a steep cost, which may limit its accessibility.
Conclusion: A Reliable, Robust Companion for Adventurers and Professionals
The Ineos Grenadier stands out for its ability to combine simplicity, robustness, and off-road performance. This vehicle is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable companion capable of tackling the toughest conditions. Its strengths include a pleasant off-road driving experience, a robust build, and functional instrumentation. However, its weaknesses include vague steering, limited comfort on the road, and relatively high fuel consumption.
Pros
- Excellent off-road capabilities
- Acceptable road comfort despite its ruggedness
- Robust and practical build
- Good engine performance, especially in the diesel version
Cons
- Steering lacks precision and feedback
- Limited maneuverability in urban environments
- High fuel consumption
- High price for higher-end versions
