To launch our new AF Member discount on the INEOS Grenadier, our AF 'Stigs' put one through its paces. Here’s what they thought.
“I didn’t really know what to expect before the Grenadier arrived. Seeing it parked up in the yard, it looked pretty impressive and certainly got noticed when we were out and about.
“On the road it took a bit of getting used to. The enormous turning circle (thanks to its off-road engineering) made it challenging on tight country lanes to begin with. But for a big, heavy vehicle it ticked along nicely once we got going.
“The ‘cockpit’ of buttons, knobs and levers was nothing short of baffling and they felt pretty flimsy. The array of beeping and other noises that it made was a real source of irritation – particularly on the farm where it seemed especially vocal.
“Off-road, the Grenadier came into its own. It took on mud, sand and any other terrain I pointed it at."
"The only noticeable drawback being the sense of driving a tank when easing it over particularly rough ground. But it was solid and dependable wherever I needed to get to. The cows seemed pretty impressed too!
“I did get into a tight, rather muddy, spot at one point and thought we were in real trouble. The Grenadier’s combined lack of turning circle plus serious weight, meant that getting it turned 90 degrees to head up a muddy river bank was almost too much for it. But we didn’t have to call for backup and after plenty of shunting, were back on dry land.
“From a practical point of view, I have a few bugbears that I’d like to see ironed out to make the Grenadier a properly practical vehicle. Backing onto a trailer, the camera isn’t centred so it’s impossible to tell if the towbar is over the hitch or not. And once you do get into position, the very chunky spare tyre gets in the way. The electric point is on the opposite side of the towbar to where you’d expect it, so the cable was stretched right over so I could plug my lights in.
“Once you’re on the move, the Grenadier tows a trailer smoothly without any trouble. The only difficulty was backing into anything other than a wide, open space. The huge turning circle meant that lots of shunting was required! A frustration, but not impossible to work around.
“Overall, the Grenadier is a fun and impressive vehicle off-road. As a workhorse, a lot of the design elements felt unnecessary, but didn’t stop it from doing the job. Would I buy one to use on the farm? I’d probably stick with a traditional pickup for now but never say never!”
“From the moment I laid eyes on it I was hooked. The Grenadier has serious presence. But unlike the Defender (which I’m a lifelong fan of), it’s not just about looks. It actually accommodates adult humans comfortably. I can finally drive without my right arm dangling out the window like I’m signalling a turn in the 1950s.
“Under the hood, the engine and gearbox are a revelation. There’s plenty of grunt when you need it, and gear changes are silky smooth, lightyears ahead of the old Land Rover 200Tdi. It’s no slouch either; it moves with surprising urgency for something this size.
“Speaking of size, handling is where the Grenadier really surprises. For a vehicle that looks like a tank, it corners with confidence. The ride is firm but comfortable, and that firmness pays off, no wallowing or boat-like roll through bends. It feels planted, composed, and reassuringly solid.
“Inside, it’s a playground for kids and grown-up enthusiasts (me!) alike. The roof-mounted switches and buttons are a quirky delight. Even if most people won’t find much use for them, they add charm and character. I’m also a big fan of the individual sunroofs. It’s a small touch, but it adds a sense of openness and uniqueness to the cabin.
“It’s not all perfect. The speed awareness systems and their endless beeps drove me mad. But that’s a gripe I have with most modern cars, not just the Grenadier. The turning circle is... generous. Think cruise ship, not dinghy. Fuel economy hovers in the low 20mpg, but then again, I wasn’t exactly feathering the throttle.
“One real disappointment: the climate control knobs. They feel flimsy and cheap, which stands out in an otherwise rugged and well-thought-out interior.
“Bottom line? If I wanted a big, capable, and imposing 4x4 that’s as fun to drive as it is to look at, the Grenadier would be my pick. It’s a proper off-roader with real personality, and it doesn’t compromise on comfort or performance. Loved it.”
“Whilst I didn’t get the chance to drive the Grenadier off road, the overall impression it gave was that it’s a seriously and impressively capable vehicle. It gives every assurance that it can easily handle all types of terrain.
“Although the vehicle has a bit less refinement than some, it was comfortable to drive and has plenty of acceleration under the pedal when required. All in all, a very enjoyable drive.
“The only drawback was perhaps the mind-boggling number of switches and knobs, but over time I’m sure these would be mastered.”
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