Let’s call things as they are…
As an overlanding enthusiast, I’m always on the hunt for the next great adventure rig, and with the release of the Ineos Grenadier, a new contender has entered the fray. But is this truck truly up to the challenge, or is it just another hyped-up vehicle?
Many of you have reached out, asking if the Grenadier is a viable investment for overlanding, and I took it upon ourselves to dig deep and find out!
My team and I have been behind the wheel of many capable off-road machines over the years—from Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators and Toyota Land Cruisers to Hummers and beyond. Overlanding is not just about tackling rugged terrain; it’s about having the right balance of reliability, durability, and practicality for long-distance travel in the most demanding environments.
With the Grenadier being relatively new to the U.S. market, I wanted to get a clear sense of whether it could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with these iconic overlanding machines. So, let’s find out if the Grenadier is the off-road beast I think it is!
Table of Contents
- A Little Context About the Ineos Grenadier
- History of the Ineos Brand
- Design and Build for Overlanding
- Powertrain Options for the Ineos Grenadier
- The Ineos Grenadier’s Off-Road Capabilities
- Interior Practicality for Overlanding
- Aftermarket Support and Modifications for the Ineos Grenadier
- Real-World Overlanding Performance
- Drawbacks of the Ineos Grenadier
- Final Thoughts: Is the Ineos Grenadier Good for Overlanding?
A Little Context About the Ineos Grenadier
For the past month, our team has been researching the Ineos Grenadier, examining everything from its build quality and off-road capabilities to how it stacks up against tried-and-true overlanding vehicles.
My team and I have scoured reviews, spoken to industry experts and owners and gathered feedback from those who’ve put the Grenadier through its paces on trails and expeditions. I even had the chance to spend some time behind the wheel of one of these trucks, driving it and inspecting it closely, thanks to the folks at Sierra Ineos Grenadier in Irvine, California.
So, what’s the goal, you ask? To answer this question: Is the Ineos Grenadier truly capable of becoming the go-to vehicle for serious overlanders?
The Ineos Grenadier Has a Surprising Pedigree
While many Americans may not be familiar with the Ineos name, those in the UK will recognize it as a company with a strong industrial background.
Ineos isn’t just dabbling in off-road vehicles—it was born from a passion to fill the gap left by the original Land Rover Defender. As Top Gear remarks in their Ineos Grenadier review, “The Grenadier is exceptionally well-engineered and does exactly what it sets out to do: go places most cars can’t without falling apart, and do it with some imagination and a dose of British idiosyncrasy. It’s also more accomplished on-road than the old Land Rover Defender that inspired it.”
After spending time behind the wheel of this truck, I can attest this quote couldn’t be any closer to the truth!
This truck was built with a purpose in mind: to be a no-nonsense, rugged, and capable off-roader. Ineos’ founder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, a lifelong fan of the Defender, was disappointed when the iconic vehicle was discontinued (though, the Defender is now back, but in a different form). This event inspired the creation of the Grenadier.
The goal was to build a vehicle that stayed true to the old-school, tough, body-on-frame design—something built for adventure, not just comfort. Don’t get me wrong, though—this truck is comfortable, but more on that in a bit!
A Rig That’s Slowly Building Its U.S. Presence
While the Grenadier might still be new to U.S. trails, it’s already begun making waves in the overlanding community. I’ve personally started noticing more of these rigs on the road and the trail, which makes sense given that Ineos has been building a solid following around the world.
And it’s not just in big cities that Ineos is building a presence. In fact, just around the corner from us is a shop, Overland Garage 4×4, that builds specialized parts for these trucks. When a new vehicle starts to inspire that level of dedication from aftermarket shops, it’s usually a sign that it has some real potential.
Overland Garage 4×4 is a local shop that specializes in outfitting rigs like the Ineos Grenadier. Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
Let’s call a spade a spade, though: potential isn’t the same as proven performance; not even close, especially in the rugged world of overlanding, where reliability is key. I didn’t want to rely on hype alone, so I reached out to real-world users who’ve taken the Grenadier into challenging environments.
One driver, “Tiny Rig,” whom I met at the American Adventurist Rendezvous earlier this year told me, “The Grenadier feels like a beast on the trails, with its solid axles and powerful engine pulling me through obstacles that other trucks would hesitate at.” However, another person, “Pete,” a prior 2-door Jeep Wrangler owner whom I met on the back trails of Big Bear, cautioned that, “While the capability is there, the vehicle’s size can sometimes make it tricky in tight trails, especially compared to smaller rigs like the Wrangler.” These varied opinions are why I set out to thoroughly investigate whether this truck is worth considering for overlanding.
As noted earlier, my team and I spent the last month digging into everything we could find about this truck, from its engineering and design choices to its actual on-the-trail performance. We read dozens of reviews, compiled common thoughts, and looked for patterns in what overlanders were saying about the Grenadier. Then to validate this, I borrowed one of these from Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
A Month of Research on the Ineos Grenadier Pays Off
After sifting through all the noise, a few common themes emerged about the Ineos Grenadier…
First, the Grenadier has earned respect for its rugged build quality and no-frills approach. It’s not designed to be a luxury SUV (although, I have to say it still does so in a rugged sort of way). Instead, this is a truck made for hard work.
Second, the powertrain and off-road features, including its locking differentials and body-on-frame construction, make it a legitimate competitor in the overlanding space. Its rugged build allows this rig to go toe-to-toe with any off-roader out there.
But there are also questions to consider. The Grenadier’s size, while beneficial for carrying gear, can be a drawback on narrow or technical trails. It’s also relatively new to the market, which means aftermarket support and parts availability—especially in remote areas—might not yet be as widespread as it is for more established overlanding rigs like those from Jeep and Toyota.
With that said, it would behoove me to dive into these and other considerations about the Ineos Grenadier in more detail…
History of the Ineos Brand
To understand the Ineos Grenadier, we need to dig into the origins of Ineos Automotive and the unique path they’ve taken into the automotive world.
Ineos isn’t a traditional car company, and its story starts in an entirely different sector—chemicals. Founded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Ineos is one of the world’s largest chemical companies. But in 2016, Ratcliffe set his sights on a different venture: building the ultimate off-roading machine.
Ineos Automotive is Founded
Ineos Automotive was born from Sir Jim’s frustration with the discontinuation of the Land Rover Defender, an icon in the overlanding and off-road world.
As someone passionate about adventure and the outdoors, Ratcliffe saw a gap in the market that needed to be filled—a vehicle as rugged and capable as the Defender, but with modern engineering and reliability. When Land Rover announced it was moving on from the Defender’s old-school design, Ratcliffe decided to take matters into his own hands.
He didn’t want a luxury SUV or a crossover. Instead, his vision was to build a vehicle that was simple, tough, and made for serious work. As Ratcliffe himself said, “I wanted something built for the world’s harshest environments, not for city streets. The Grenadier needed to be a no-nonsense workhorse.” That philosophy shaped the entire design and development of the Ineos Grenadier. If you spend only 5 minutes behind the wheel of this truck, you will see how true this is!
Pedigree in the UK
While Ineos is new to building cars, they’re not new to the engineering challenges that come with creating durable, high-performing products.
Based in the UK, the company has decades of experience in the industrial sector, and it applied that expertise to the Grenadier. As I’ve noted a couple of times, much of the Grenadier’s design ethos draws inspiration from the UK’s storied off-road history, particularly vehicles like the original Land Rover Defender, which was (is) beloved for its simplicity and rugged capability.
Development of the Grenadier
One of the most interesting aspects of the Grenadier is how it came to life.
Rather than building a vehicle from the ground up within a traditional car company, Ineos Automotive worked with a variety of global partners to bring the Grenadier to fruition. This collaboration includes partnerships with engineering specialists like Magna Steyr, who helped design and develop the vehicle, and with BMW, which supplies the engines, and a few other bits in this truck.
This global approach ensured that the Grenadier wasn’t just a rough concept but a well-engineered machine designed to handle the toughest environments on Earth. The project took several years, with extensive testing in extreme conditions. The result? A vehicle that Ineos believes can stand up to any terrain, from the frozen Arctic to the scorching Sahara.
Manufacturing and Engineering
One of the key elements of the Grenadier’s pedigree is where it’s made. While Ineos is a British company, the Grenadier is built in Hambach, France, at a former Mercedes-Benz factory that Ineos acquired in 2020. This factory was already known for producing high-quality vehicles, and Ineos saw it as the perfect place to manufacture their new off-roader.
The Grenadier is built with components from some of the most respected names in automotive engineering. The 3.0-liter inline-6 engines from BMW are known for their reliability and performance, while Carraro provides the heavy-duty axles. This blend of proven parts from leading manufacturers ensures that the Grenadier is both robust and reliable—and as you and I know, these are key qualities for an overlanding vehicle.
I think MotorTrend summed it up best when it remarked, “The Grenadier combines the best of old-school off-road toughness with modern-day reliability and refinement, thanks to its partnerships with industry leaders like BMW and Carraro.” No need to reinvent the wheel, here!
The Vision Behind the Grenadier
Ratcliffe’s vision for the Grenadier was to build a vehicle that could handle the toughest off-road environments without the unnecessary frills of many modern SUVs. He didn’t want touchscreens or complex electronics that might fail in the middle of nowhere. Instead, the focus was on a utilitarian design that was easy to repair and maintain, even in the most remote parts of the world.
In many ways, the Grenadier is a throwback to an earlier era of off-road vehicles—one where function was more important than form. As Ratcliffe once noted, “We didn’t set out to make a luxury SUV. We set out to make a vehicle that could survive anything.”
The Ineos Grenadier may be a newcomer to the automotive world, but its development and design are rooted in decades of engineering expertise. With strong UK influences and a global team of experts contributing to its creation, the Grenadier has quickly earned its place in the conversation about the best vehicles for serious overlanders.
Design and Build for Overlanding
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
When it comes to overlanding and the remote nature of what we do, a vehicle’s design and build quality are paramount. The Ineos Grenadier was created with the specific needs of off-road adventurers in mind, so every aspect of its design is geared toward durability, practicality, and capability.
Body-on-Frame Construction
One of the most important aspects of the Grenadier’s design is its body-on-frame construction. Unlike unibody vehicles, which are more common in modern SUVs, body-on-frame designs are known for their ruggedness and durability. As you likely already know, this type of construction is a staple of serious off-road vehicles because it can better withstand the stresses of rough terrain, heavy loads, and the kinds of bumps and knocks that come with overlanding.
For example, the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Land Cruiser—both beloved by overlanders—use body-on-frame designs, and for good reason. As noted by Car and Driver, “The body-on-frame construction provides the Grenadier with the rigidity it needs to tackle extreme terrains while also offering superior load-bearing capabilities.” Whether you’re navigating rocky trails, hauling gear, or outfitting the truck for long-term expeditions, this construction method gives the Grenadier the type of durability that the most famed off-roading vehicles use.
Solid Axles and Suspension
The Grenadier’s suspension system is another key component that sets it apart. It features solid axles in the front and rear. These axles are known for their strength, simplicity, and durability.
Solid axles are highly prized in off-road circles because they provide consistent performance and stability on uneven terrain. This design allows the Grenadier to maintain better traction and keep more wheels on the ground when traversing obstacles, where other vehicles with independent suspension systems might struggle to maintain stability.
As one overlander, “Jarin,” whom I met in Kingman, Arizona, told me, “The Grenadier’s solid axles make a world of difference on the trail. Where other trucks are bouncing around or lifting wheels, the Grenadier stays planted.” This kind of stability is crucial when you’re carrying gear or trying to navigate challenging off-road routes.
The Grenadier also comes with long-travel suspension, which helps it soak up bumps and ruts in the road, making for a smoother ride even in the roughest conditions. Combined with its solid axles, the Grenadier’s suspension system gives it an impressive off-road prowess that can handle anything from rocky trails to mud and sand.
Tough Materials
Overlanding is obviously hard on vehicles, so the Ineos team ensured the Grenadier is built to last.
Ineos has made a point of using tough, high-quality materials throughout the truck’s design, both inside and out. Especially sitting in the driver’s seat, taking a quick look around, and this is hard not to miss! The body is made of high-strength steel, while the doors and fenders are constructed from aluminum, striking a balance between durability and weight savings. Open and close any of the doors on this truck, and you will feel the heft of materials that Ineos used.
The interior is similarly designed with ruggedness in mind. Ineos opted for materials that can withstand the dust, dirt, and wear and tear that come with off-road adventures. The floors, for example, are rubberized and easy to hose down, and the seats are made of water-resistant materials, ensuring that mud, water, and dirt won’t ruin the interior after a long day on the trail.
Water and Dust Sealing
One of the critical factors for any overland vehicle is how well it protects its occupants and cargo from the elements. The Grenadier is designed to be highly resistant to both water and dust, with robust seals around the doors and windows. This makes it well-suited for driving through water crossings or along dusty desert trails, where lesser vehicles might struggle.
The truck also has excellent ground clearance, which helps in water-fording situations. Its high ground clearance (10.4 inches), along with its wading depth of 31.5 inches, allows it to get up and over obstacles and through deep water with ease. Combined with its carefully designed water-sealing systems, the Grenadier is a top choice for overlanders who need to cross rivers or drive in wet conditions.
Practicality for Overlanding
Beyond just being tough, the Grenadier was designed with practicality in mind. It features numerous tie-down points inside and outside the vehicle, making it easy to secure gear for long trips. There’s also a roof load rating of up to 330 pounds, which is more than enough to accommodate a rooftop tent or additional cargo storage for extended overlanding expeditions.
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
The modular design of the roof and body means that you can customize the truck to fit your needs, whether that’s adding racks, lights, or a full overlanding setup. Ineos even offers factory-installed options like a roof ladder and snorkel, which are essential for more serious overlanding environments. As one reviewer from Edmunds notes, “…the Grenadier’s honesty makes it charming. If what you’re looking for is a portal to an old-school way of off-roading, you’ve finally got it.”
So, with that, let’s shift gears and dive deeper into the truck’s powertrain and how its engine and transmission contribute to its overall off-road capability.
Powertrain Options for the Ineos Grenadier
When you’re heading into remote, rugged territory, the powertrain of your vehicle can make or break your adventure. The Ineos Grenadier’s powertrain was built to deliver the kind of reliability and performance that overlanders demand.
Engine Choices: Gasoline and Diesel
At the heart of the Ineos Grenadier is a range of powerful and reliable engines supplied by BMW. You have two options: a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 gasoline engine or a 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 diesel engine, both of which have been well-tested in BMW’s lineup and are known for their durability.
What’s funny is that I owned a BMW back in 2015 that had the N55 motor in it, which is the older version of the B58, which, of course, is in the Grenadier. Driving the Grenadier, it sounds and feels reminiscent of my BMW days!
Back onto the B58 gasoline engine…
It produces 282 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. The diesel version offers 245 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque. Both engines provide plenty of low-end torque, which is essential for off-roading when you need to power through tough terrain at low speeds. The diesel engine, in particular, shines in overlanding situations, where its higher torque output and better fuel efficiency make it ideal for long-distance travel in remote areas.
Transmission: ZF 8-Speed Automatic
Mated to both engines is the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, a gearbox renowned for its smooth shifts and proven reliability. This transmission has been used in a variety of off-road vehicles, including the Jeep Wrangler and the Land Rover Defender, and it’s widely regarded as one of the best automatics for off-roading.
The ZF 8-speed’s flexibility is one of its key strengths. It offers a wide range of gear ratios, ensuring that the Grenadier can handle everything from high-speed highway driving to low-speed rock crawling with ease. The transmission also has a manual shift mode, giving drivers more control when tackling tricky off-road obstacles.
Before closing off on the ZF 8-speed transmission, earlier I mentioned the Grenadier hit a note of my driving past with my 2015 BMW 335i. Well, it turns out the transmissions were basically the same thing, down to the shifter used in the Grenadier!
Transfer Case and 4WD System
The Grenadier comes equipped with a robust full-time four-wheel-drive system that includes a manually selectable two-speed transfer case, developed in collaboration with Tremec. This system offers both high-range and low-range gearing, giving the vehicle the versatility it needs to handle a wide range of terrain types.
The high range is perfect for general off-road driving and light trails, while the low range is essential for more challenging obstacles like steep inclines, deep mud, or rock crawling. The transfer case also includes a central locking differential, which ensures equal power is sent to both the front and rear axles when conditions demand maximum traction.
Off-road enthusiasts have expressed joy with this setup. The transfer case is robust and enables you to adapt to virtually any off-road situation you might encounter. So, whether you’re slowly navigating rocky terrain or powering through deep sand, the Grenadier’s 4WD system ensures you have the grip and control needed to keep moving forward.
Locking Differentials for Maximum Traction
In addition to its full-time 4WD system, the Grenadier is equipped with front and rear locking differentials, which can be engaged manually when extra traction is needed. These locking diffs are a must-have feature for serious off-roading, as they ensure that power is distributed evenly to all four wheels, even when some wheels lose contact with the ground or traction.
This feature gives the Grenadier a significant advantage in extreme off-road conditions, such as when one or more wheels are in the air during a steep ascent or when driving over slippery, uneven surfaces like mud, ice, or snow. As one driver noted after testing the Grenadier in the Australian outback, “The locking diffs give you the confidence to take on tougher trails. It’s a real lifesaver when you’re dealing with tricky, technical terrain.”
Fuel Range and Efficiency
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
For those of us in the overlanding community, fuel range is always a critical consideration, especially when you’re planning to travel far from the nearest gas station. The Grenadier’s diesel engine offers better fuel efficiency compared to the gasoline version, making it the more attractive option for long-distance overlanding trips. Although exact fuel economy figures vary depending on conditions, the diesel engine typically provides more miles per gallon (roughly 14-15 on the highway), which means fewer stops for fuel and longer stretches between refills.
With the Grenadier’s large fuel tank, you can expect a solid range that will keep you going deep into remote areas without worrying about running dry. This, of course, is particularly valuable when traveling through regions where fuel availability is scarce.
It’s also important to note that while the Grenadier offers decent fuel efficiency for its class, it’s still a large and heavy vehicle, so don’t expect it to be as frugal as smaller overland rigs. This is especially true when you take it off-road and it’s working hard. Bring extra fuel in Rotopax just in case!
The Ineos Grenadier’s Off-Road Capabilities
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
If you haven’t noticed, when it comes to off-road performance, the Ineos Grenadier was designed with overlanders in mind. This truck isn’t about flashy gimmicks or luxury (although it does have a certain ‘cool’ factor to it unlike anything else on the road)—it’s built to conquer the roughest terrain while maintaining a level of dependability that’s crucial for long expeditions.
The question is, how do its off-road capabilities stack up?
Full-Time Four-Wheel Drive System
One of the standout features of the Grenadier is its full-time four-wheel-drive system. Unlike many off-road vehicles that require you to manually switch between two-wheel and four-wheel drive, the Grenadier’s system is always engaged, ensuring maximum traction no matter the terrain. This provides confidence when conditions change suddenly, such as going from dry dirt roads to slick, muddy trails.
The full-time 4WD system is paired with a manually selectable two-speed transfer case, allowing drivers to switch between high and low ranges depending on the situation. High range is ideal for general off-road driving, while low range gives you the extra torque needed for slow, technical maneuvers over rocks, through deep mud, or on steep inclines.
As a buddy of mine who has driven the Grenadier points out, “The Grenadier’s full-time four-wheel drive is a game changer for overlanding. It offers excellent grip and stability in all conditions, whether you’re on wet gravel or navigating a rocky hillside.” This built-in capability means you’re always prepared for the unexpected without having to worry about fiddling with your drivetrain.
Locking Differentials for Extreme Terrain
One of the most essential tools for any serious off-road vehicle is a set of locking differentials, and the Grenadier doesn’t disappoint…
As I mentioned earlier, the Grenadier comes equipped with front, center, and rear locking differentials, which can be manually engaged when conditions demand extra traction. These lockers ensure that power is evenly distributed to all four wheels, even if one or more wheels lose contact with the ground or encounter slippery surfaces. In practice, this means the Grenadier can tackle technical obstacles like deep ruts, rocks, and steep climbs with ease.
When you lock the differentials, you essentially force the vehicle to keep moving forward, even when it would otherwise get stuck. As one experienced overlander who tested the Grenadier in Colorado noted, “The locking diffs are a lifesaver on tough trails. When other trucks were spinning tires, the Grenadier kept moving without hesitation.”
The ability to lock the center differential also provides extra stability and traction in particularly tricky scenarios, such as when driving on loose surfaces like sand or snow. This flexibility makes the Grenadier a capable performer in a wide variety of off-road environments.
Ground Clearance and Approach/Departure Angles
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
Ground clearance is another critical factor for overlanding vehicles, and the Grenadier holds its own with a ground clearance of 10.4 inches, which is decent. With this, the Grenadier is able to clear most obstacles you’ll encounter on the trail, from large rocks to deep mud pits. This clearance, combined with the truck’s sturdy body-on-frame construction, allows it to handle harsh terrain without risking damage to the undercarriage. Of course, the fun part with this is there are shops like Overland Garage 4×4 that can add some lift to these, which, of course, gives you even more clearance.
Additionally, the Grenadier boasts impressive approach, departure, and breakover angles—35.5 degrees, 36.1 degrees, and 28.2 degrees, respectively. These angles determine how steep an obstacle the vehicle can climb or descend without scraping the front or rear bumpers. For overlanders, these metrics are vital when crossing rough, uneven terrain where steep angles are common. Air down your tires and go for it! In comparison to other iconic off-roaders like the Jeep Wrangler and Toyota Land Cruiser, the Grenadier holds its own, offering similar, if not better, capabilities in many cases.
Suspension and Articulation
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
The Grenadier’s solid axle suspension system, combined with long-travel coil springs, gives it exceptional wheel articulation. This means the wheels can move independently of the body, maintaining contact with the ground even when the vehicle is navigating uneven or rocky terrain. This articulation is especially valuable if you spend time on trails with significant elevation changes, as it allows the truck to climb over obstacles while keeping the ride relatively smooth.
This combination of smooth handling and excellent articulation helps the Grenadier shine on technical trails where many vehicles would struggle.
Water Fording and Dust Sealing
If you enjoy exploring remote areas, water crossings and dusty environments are common challenges. The Grenadier is built to handle both with ease!
It has a wading depth of 31.5 inches, which allows it to cross most rivers and streams without a hitch. The design of the truck ensures that water is kept out of critical components, such as the engine and electrical systems, making it a reliable choice if you often encounter water hazards. Speaking of water and dust, you can order the Grenadier with a snorkel, which raises where it picks up valuable air for the intake.
Additionally, the Grenadier features excellent dust sealing, with robust gaskets and seals around the doors, windows, and body panels. This is particularly important if you spend time in desert environments like I do, where fine dust can infiltrate a vehicle’s interior and mechanical systems, leading to wear and tear over time.
Tire and Wheel Options
The Grenadier is equipped with 17-inch wheels as standard, and they come wrapped in chunky all-terrain tires designed for off-road use. These tires provide excellent grip on loose surfaces like dirt, mud, and sand, while the wheels are built to withstand the impacts of rough terrain. For overlanders who want even more capability, the Grenadier can be fitted with optional 18-inch wheels, which allow for a wider selection of aftermarket tires, including more aggressive off-road options.
Interior Practicality for Overlanding
When it comes to overlanding, the interior of your vehicle plays a critical role in the overall experience. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend expedition or an extended overland journey, the comfort, durability, and utility of your vehicle’s interior are key factors. The Ineos Grenadier was built with practicality in mind, offering an interior designed to withstand the rigors of off-road life while providing the necessary comfort and features for long-distance travel.
Spacious and Functional Layout
One of the first things you’ll notice when stepping into the Grenadier is its spacious and functional layout. The interior is deliberately utilitarian, with a focus on practicality rather than luxury. This makes sense for a vehicle built to be a workhorse in demanding environments. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making long journeys more comfortable for everyone on board. I’m 6 feet tall and was surprised with how much room and comfort was found sitting in the back.
The rear cargo space is generous, with a flat load floor that makes it easy to pack and organize your overlanding gear. Whether you’re loading up camping equipment, recovery gear, or extra fuel, the Grenadier offers ample room for all the essentials. And if you need more space, the rear seats fold forward, expanding the cargo area even further.
As we all know, overlanding requires a lot of gear. The Ineos Grenadier can easily accommodate all the essentials for a lengthy trip – and then some!
As Overland Bound remarked in their review, “The Grenadier’s interior is all about practicality. It’s built to accommodate serious overlanders who need to carry a lot of gear, without sacrificing passenger comfort.” For those who are used to living out of their vehicle on long trips, this interior setup is a significant advantage.
Durable, Easy-to-Clean Materials
Overlanding can be a messy business, and the interior of your vehicle needs to be able to handle mud, water, dust, and everything in between. Ineos clearly understood this when designing the Grenadier’s interior, opting for durable, easy-to-clean materials throughout the cabin. The floors are rubberized, making them easy to hose down after a muddy trek, while the upholstery is made from water- and stain-resistant materials.
In fact, the Grenadier’s interior is designed with adventure in mind, right down to the hose-out capability of the floors. This feature is a game-changer for overlanders, as it allows you to keep the interior clean even after the dirtiest of expeditions. Additionally, the seats are rugged yet comfortable, made from materials that won’t easily tear or wear down after years of use.
As one off-roader noted in a forum review, “I was impressed by how easy it was to clean the interior after a particularly muddy weekend trip. A quick hose-down and wipe, and it looked good as new.” This kind of durability ensures that the Grenadier can handle whatever you throw at it, without requiring constant upkeep.
Utility-Oriented Design
The Grenadier’s interior is built with a clear focus on utility, and it shows in the design of the dashboard and controls. Unlike many modern SUVs that rely heavily on touchscreens, the Grenadier keeps things simple with large, easy-to-use physical buttons and switches. This is particularly beneficial in off-road conditions, where dust, gloves, or wet conditions can make touchscreens impractical.
The center console is dominated by a row of sturdy toggle switches, which control everything from the differential locks to the 4WD system. These switches are clearly labeled and designed to be operated with gloved hands, making them ideal for overlanders who often find themselves in less-than-ideal conditions. The simplicity of the controls ensures that you can focus on driving rather than fumbling with complicated tech systems.
In my time behind the wheel, I found this focus on utility to be a nice throwback to how vehicles used to be. The controls are tactile and intuitive, straightforward, and no-nonsense. Instead of being overly tech-heavy like so many rigs today, the Grenadier is a breath of fresh analog air.
Storage Solutions for Overlanding Gear
As overlanders, we need plenty of storage for gear, and the Grenadier delivers with thoughtful solutions designed to keep everything organized and secure. In addition to the generous rear cargo area, there are multiple storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a lockable glove box and center console.
One standout feature is the roof storage net, which allows you to store lightweight items overhead, freeing up more space in the cabin. The roof itself is designed to accommodate up to 330 lbs of gear, making it ideal for mounting rooftop tents, cargo boxes, or additional fuel and water containers. Ineos even offers a factory-installed roof ladder, which makes it easier to access gear on top of the vehicle.
These built-in storage solutions make it so easy to organize your gear. Whether you’re packing for a weekend adventure or a cross-country expedition, the Grenadier offers the versatility you need to bring all your gear along for the ride.
Comfort for Long Journeys
While the Grenadier’s interior is focused on utility, that doesn’t mean it sacrifices comfort. The seats are well-padded and supportive, designed to keep you comfortable on long drives over rough terrain. The front seats made by Recaro are available with optional heating, which is a nice feature for those who enjoy winter overlanding. Driving around in the Grenadier, I will say the seats really kept me planted with no shifting from side to side as I cruised around.
The cabin is also designed to reduce fatigue on long trips. Noise insulation is impressive, considering the ruggedness of the vehicle. While you can expect some road noise, especially on rougher surfaces, the Grenadier does a good job of keeping things relatively quiet inside the cabin. This allows for easier conversations and a more relaxed atmosphere during long overland journeys.
In other words, Ineos has managed to marry utility and comfort quite well. Though the Grenadier by no means has a luxurious interior, it is nonetheless comfortable and supportive. If you want a vehicle that’s ready for anything and will get you where you’re going in comfort, this could be the rig for you.
Modularity and Customization
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
The interior of the Grenadier was designed to be highly modular, allowing you to customize the space to suit your specific needs. Whether you want to add more storage, mount navigation equipment, or install communications gear, the Grenadier provides multiple mounting points and tie-downs to make it easy.
Ineos also offers a range of optional accessories that enhance the vehicle’s overlanding capabilities, including additional storage solutions, roof racks, and cargo organizers. This modularity ensures that you can tailor the vehicle to your exact specifications, whether you’re planning short weekend trips or months-long expeditions.
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
As I’ve mentioned before, be sure to check out Overland Garage 4×4 for a wide range of aftermarket accessories. These folks are experts at their craft and can handle the installation of whatever components you want to add to the Grenadier.
Aftermarket Support and Modifications for the Ineos Grenadier
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
One of the most important aspects of any overlanding vehicle is its ability to be customized to meet your unique needs. While a stock vehicle can take you far (some more than others), you often need additional modifications to truly tailor your rig for the demands of off-road travel.
The Ineos Grenadier, although relatively new to the market, is already making waves in the aftermarket scene. Want evidence of this? Swing by Overland Garage 4×4 in Laguna Hills, California, and see everything they have cooked up for these trucks. There is a whole cosmos of made-in-USA aftermarket parts you can add to this rig to level up its already robust off-road performance.
Suspension Upgrades and Lift Kits
One of the first things many overlanders look to upgrade is the suspension system, and the Grenadier is no exception. Although its stock suspension is more than capable for most off-road conditions, you may want more ground clearance or better performance on particularly rough trails. Suspension lift kits are already becoming available, which allows you to raise the vehicle for improved clearance over rocks, roots, and deep ruts.
Increased suspension travel and better shock absorption should also be high on the list if you’re planning to take the Grenadier into more extreme environments. With a lift kit, you can fit larger, more aggressive tires, which improve grip and handling on difficult terrain. A lift on this rig would also look badass, for what that’s worth!
Armor and Protection
Overland Garage 4×4’s beefy skid plate offers improved protection for the underbelly of the Grenadier. Photo provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
If you’re venturing into rocky, rugged environments, underbody protection is a must. While the Grenadier comes with some skid plates from the factory, aftermarket manufacturers like Overland Garage 4×4 are already developing heavy-duty armor kits to protect vital components such as the fuel tank, transfer case, and differentials. This kind of upgrade provides peace of mind when navigating sharp rocks or other debris that might otherwise damage the underside of the vehicle.
Similarly, aftermarket bumpers made from steel or aluminum are becoming available, offering additional protection and providing mounting points for winches, extra lighting, and recovery points. These bumpers are essential if you anticipate needing to recover your vehicle from difficult situations or help others on the trail.
As one off-road enthusiast aptly noted in a forum post, “After upgrading to a steel bumper with a winch, I feel like my Grenadier is ready for anything. It’s the kind of upgrade that gives you confidence in remote areas.”
Roof Racks and Cargo Storage
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
Storage is a critical aspect of any overland build, and the Grenadier’s modular design makes it easy to add a variety of cargo-carrying solutions. Aftermarket roof racks and cargo boxes provide additional storage for gear, fuel, and water, essential for extended trips into remote areas. These racks can also serve as mounting points for rooftop tents. And let’s call things as they are: overlanders who want to set up camp quickly and efficiently love rooftop tents!
The Grenadier’s optional Rhino Rack offers a dynamic load rating of 330 lbs (925 lbs when not in motion), making it more than capable of supporting a fully loaded roof rack and rooftop tent combination. Many aftermarket suppliers are already offering racks designed specifically for the Grenadier, allowing you to customize your vehicle’s storage solutions to fit your needs.
Lighting and Electrical Upgrades
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
Lighting is another area where overlanders tend to make significant upgrades, and the Grenadier is no exception. While it comes with standard off-road lighting, you might want to add additional lights for night driving or setting up camp after dark. The aftermarket is already responding with options like LED light bars, spotlights, and fog lights designed specifically for the Grenadier’s roof rack or bumper mounts.
Additionally, electrical upgrades like dual-battery systems and auxiliary power setups are essential for powering everything from refrigerators to communication systems on longer overlanding trips. The Grenadier’s interior is equipped with multiple power outlets and mounting points for electrical gear, but adding an auxiliary battery can ensure that vital equipment keeps running without draining the main battery.
As an overlander who tested the Grenadier on a multi-day trip noted in a recent post, “I installed an auxiliary power system, and now I can run my fridge and other gear without worrying about battery life. It’s a must-have for long expeditions.” When you’re headed out for days on end, having a robust power system is a must; the Grenadier meets that challenge!
Wheels and Tires
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
While the stock wheels and all-terrain tires on the Grenadier are highly capable, serious off-roaders may want to upgrade to larger wheels and more aggressive tires. The vehicle can accommodate 18-inch wheels, opening up a range of aftermarket tire options, including mud-terrain and rock-crawling tires designed for extreme off-road conditions. These upgrades improve traction and durability, especially on surfaces like sand, mud, and snow.
Aftermarket Support and Specialist Shops
Photo provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
The Ineos Grenadier’s aftermarket support is growing rapidly, and specialized shops are already emerging to cater to its unique design. The aforementioned Overland Garage 4×4, a shop right here in Southern California, offers upgrades for this rig that expand its capabilities. This kind of support is crucial for modifying your Grenadier to handle more extreme environments and ensure it’s equipped for tough expeditions.
Moreover, dedicated Ineos dealerships and service centers like Sierra Ineos Grenadier in Irvine, California, are becoming more common, which helps ensure that if you become an owner, you can access the parts and support needed to keep your Grenadier in tip-top shape. As Ineos continues to build its presence in the U.S., expect even more aftermarket companies to join the fray, offering a wide array of customization options tailored to overlanders.
Real-World Overlanding Performance
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
No matter how capable a vehicle looks on paper, its true test comes when it’s put through the rigors of real-world overlanding…
The Ineos Grenadier was built from the ground up to be an off-road powerhouse, but how does it perform when it’s out on the trails and far from the pavement? Let’s break down the Grenadier’s performance in the field, drawing from real-world experiences and feedback from overlanders who’ve pushed this vehicle to its limits.
Trail Performance: Handling Rough Terrain
The Grenadier’s off-road pedigree shines through when it’s faced with tough terrain. Thanks to its solid axles, full-time 4WD, and rugged suspension, the vehicle has no trouble handling rocks, deep ruts, mud, and steep inclines. One of the most consistent pieces of feedback from those who’ve driven the Grenadier is how confident it feels off-road, even in challenging conditions.
As one online reviewer, John, notes about a trip in Utah, “This truck doesn’t hesitate on rocky terrain. The solid axles and locking diffs keep it planted and pulling, even on steep, technical sections where other vehicles might struggle.” This kind of performance is critical for overlanding, as you often encounter unpredictable terrain and need a vehicle that can handle it all with confidence. Whether you’re crawling over rocks or fording a river, the Grenadier’s real-world trail performance stands up to the toughest tests.
On the Road: Balancing Comfort and Off-Road Capability
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
While overlanding vehicles need to excel off-road, they also spend time on highways and backroads, connecting between trailheads and destinations. In this area, the Grenadier’s performance is surprisingly balanced.
Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the Grenadier offers a comfortable ride on paved roads. The suspension, while tuned for off-roading, provides enough damping to smooth out bumps and road imperfections, making long drives more pleasant than you might expect from such a rugged vehicle. Frankly speaking, within minutes behind the wheel, you can quickly see this for yourself.
The BMW-sourced 3.0L inline-6 engines are not only powerful but refined. They deliver smooth power on the road, whether you’re cruising at highway speeds or pulling up a steep mountain pass. When I took the Grenadier out on the highway, I was surprised by how well it handled highway speeds. It’s not a luxury ride, but it’s comfortable enough for long hauls, and the engine pulls effortlessly when overtaking slower traffic.
That said, it’s important to note that the Grenadier’s real strength lies off-road. While it’s perfectly capable of handling paved roads, its large, all-terrain tires and body-on-frame construction mean it won’t have the same level of smoothness as a more road-focused SUV. This is a trade-off that most of us in the overlanding community are happy to make, given the Grenadier’s off-road prowess.
Performance in Extreme Conditions
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
One of the key factors that make the Grenadier a strong contender for overlanders is its ability to perform in extreme environments. If you do enough trips, you know how easy it is for us to frequently find ourselves in areas with unpredictable weather, tough trails, and challenging conditions, and this is where the Grenadier really shines.
Whether you’re dealing with snow, sand, or mud, the Grenadier’s four-wheel-drive system, coupled with its locking differentials, ensures that it can maintain traction and forward momentum. This was evident in tests conducted by enthusiasts who took the vehicle through extreme conditions. A reviewer from Australia noted after their test that, “The Grenadier handled soft sand dunes and deep mud like a champ. Its weight distribution and torque made it easy to power through sections that would bog down other trucks.”
And while the Grenadier didn’t take the checkered flag in the video below by carwow, it’s still an interesting comparison between the Grenadier, Jeep Wrangler, and Land Rover Defender:
As I noted earlier, the vehicle’s water-fording capabilities—up to 31.5 inches—make it ideal for water crossings. Real-world tests have shown that the Grenadier’s water sealing is robust, keeping water out of critical components and allowing the vehicle to power through deep streams without issue.
Durability and Reliability in the Field
Image provided by Overland Garage 4×4.
Durability and reliability are non-negotiables in the overlanding world. The last thing you want is for your vehicle to fail when you’re miles away from civilization. In the real world, the Grenadier has proven to be a tough, reliable rig that can take the abuse of extended off-road travel without breaking down.
Thanks to its body-on-frame construction and heavy-duty components, the Grenadier is built to withstand the kind of punishment that comes with overlanding. Its steel chassis, solid axles, and high-strength body panels make it more resistant to damage from rough terrain, while the vehicle’s robust cooling system ensures that the engine can handle high temperatures during long days on the trail.
If you spend any amount of time with this rig in an off-road situation, you’ll likely find that it keeps going regardless of the conditions. Whether it’s mud, dust, heat, water crossings, or all of the above, the Grenadier tackles obstacles with ease. Its reliable performance is exactly what you want in an overlanding vehicle.
Real-World Overlanding Feedback
What truly sets the Grenadier apart is how well it resonates with real-world overlanders. While many vehicles claim to be “off-road capable,” the Grenadier has earned respect in the field for its no-nonsense approach to overlanding.
One consistent theme among those who’ve tested the vehicle is how well it strikes a balance between modern reliability and old-school toughness, something I’m going to echo as well. Thus far, it seems that folks with experience with the Grenadier see it as a spiritual successor to the old Land Rover Defender, but without Land Rover’s famous reliability issues.
Drawbacks of the Ineos Grenadier
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
While the Ineos Grenadier has made a strong case as a formidable overlanding vehicle, it’s important to acknowledge that no vehicle is perfect. Understanding its limitations will help you make an informed decision and determine if the Grenadier is the right fit for your specific needs.
Weight: A Double-Edged Sword
One of the first things that becomes apparent about the Grenadier is its size and weight. Tipping the scales at around 5,500 lbs, the Grenadier is a heavy vehicle, and while that weight contributes to its durability and that planted off-road stability you feel when driving it, it can also be a disadvantage in certain situations. For example, on softer terrain like sand or mud, the Grenadier’s weight can cause it to sink more easily compared to lighter vehicles, making it more susceptible to getting bogged down.
As one Grenadier owner told me at a recent auto show, “The Grenadier’s great, but you really feel the weight on soft terrain. Lighter trucks float better, but this thing digs in. Bigger tires help a lot, but you definitely notice that weight in sand or mud.” To mitigate this, you can opt for larger, more aggressive tires to improve flotation on soft surfaces, but the vehicle’s inherent weight will always be something to consider.
Size and Maneuverability
Image provided by Sierra Ineos Grenadier.
The Grenadier’s size is another factor that, while beneficial for interior space and cargo capacity, can be a drawback on narrow, technical trails. At 76 inches wide and 193 inches long, the Grenadier is bulkier than many other popular overlanding vehicles like the Jeep Wrangler or Toyota 4Runner. This can make it more difficult to navigate tight turns, narrow trails, or dense forest paths, where maneuverability is key.
Drivers who are used to smaller, more agile vehicles may find the Grenadier a bit cumbersome in these environments. It’s a big rig, and you definitely feel it when you’re threading the needle between trees or rocks. On wide-open trails, it’s fine, but on narrow paths, it can be a bit of a handful.
If your sweet spot is on technical, narrow trails, this size may be a limitation. However, the Grenadier’s turning radius is fairly tight for its size, which helps somewhat in mitigating this drawback.
Fuel Economy: Thirsty for Adventure
While the diesel engine in the Grenadier offers better fuel efficiency than the gasoline version, fuel economy is still a consideration for long-distance trips. The Grenadier is not a fuel-sipper, and you can expect relatively low fuel efficiency compared to more road-focused SUVs. When fully loaded with gear and tackling tough off-road terrain, fuel consumption rises significantly.
Availability of Parts and Service
Because the Ineos Grenadier is still relatively new to the U.S. market, one of the most significant drawbacks is the availability of parts and service. Unlike more established brands like Jeep, Toyota, or Land Rover, which have extensive dealership and service networks, Ineos is still in the process of building its support infrastructure in the U.S. and other regions.
This means that if you find yourself in a remote area and need replacement parts or repairs, you might face longer wait times or difficulty sourcing parts. That said, Ineos has made a commitment to building a strong service network, and aftermarket support is growing, which will help mitigate these concerns over time. For now, however, take this into consideration, especially when planning remote or international trips.
Limited Technological Features
If you prefer a more modern, tech-heavy interior, the Grenadier might feel a bit lacking in that department. While it has everything you need to get the job done, it doesn’t offer the luxury features that many newer vehicles do, such as large infotainment screens, advanced driver-assistance systems, or a wide array of connectivity options. The Grenadier’s interior is intentionally simple and utilitarian, which is appealing to some but may feel sparse to others who are used to more high-tech setups.
When I first hopped into the Grenadier, it was plainly obvious that it wasn’t about flashy tech—it was built to be a rugged, off-road workhorse. If you’re looking for all the modern bells and whistles, you might be disappointed. However, if you prioritize ruggedness and simplicity over luxury, you will appreciate this approach.
Price: A Premium Investment
Finally, the Grenadier comes with a relatively high price tag, especially when compared to some other popular overlanding vehicles. With a starting price of around $71,500, the Grenadier isn’t cheap, and when you add in aftermarket modifications, the total investment can be significant. While the price reflects the vehicle’s quality and capability, it may put it out of reach for some overlanders.
Final Thoughts: Is the Ineos Grenadier Good for Overlanding?
After thoroughly examining the Ineos Grenadier’s design, off-road capabilities, and real-world performance, it’s clear that this vehicle was built with overlanders in mind. The question many potential buyers are asking is whether it truly stands out as a viable option for serious overlanding adventures. Based on our research and feedback from overlanders who have put it to the test, the answer is a strong yes—with a few caveats.
On the one hand, the Grenadier excels in key areas that matter most to overlanders. Its body-on-frame construction, solid axles, full-time 4WD, and locking differentials make it a rugged, go-anywhere vehicle that can handle challenging terrain with ease. Whether you’re crossing rivers, climbing steep rocky trails, or navigating through thick mud, the Grenadier’s off-road performance is hard to beat. It’s a purpose-built machine designed to endure the harshest environments, and it delivers on that promise.
Its interior practicality is another plus, offering durability, easy-to-clean materials, and thoughtful storage solutions. The Grenadier doesn’t try to be a luxury SUV—it focuses on functionality and reliability, which is exactly what serious overlanders need when they’re far from civilization.
On the other hand, the Grenadier does have its trade-offs. Its large size and weight can make it less maneuverable on narrow or technical trails, and its fuel economy, while manageable for an off-road vehicle, isn’t as efficient as smaller, lighter alternatives. Additionally, the high upfront cost and the fact that Ineos is still building its service and dealership network may cause some buyers to pause.
However, these are challenges that can be mitigated with proper planning and a clear understanding of what you’re getting—a highly capable, durable vehicle that is ready for long-term, serious overlanding. If you need a vehicle that can endure extreme conditions and provide long-lasting value, plus gives you a nostalgic driving experience that harkens back to off-roaders of the past, the Grenadier is certainly worth the investment.
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Hero photo courtesy of Overland Garage 4×4.