By Malusi Msomi

The INEOS Grenadier is a relatively new player in the market. After the INEOS Grenadier SUV made its debut in 2022, the double-cab bakkie Grenadier Quartermaster soon followed. The reason the INEOS Grenadier exists in the first place is that JLR refused to sell brand’s founder, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the tooling to build his own Land Rover Defender (which ceased production back in 2016). The Grenadier Quartermaster has a German heart (B58 engine), British designed, and is built in Hambach, France. Quite a few countries have come together to build a vehicle capable of traversing most African terrains, such as the beautiful Baviaanskloof, where we got to spend some time with it.

Design

The Grenadier Quartermaster is based on the SUV version we’re used to. To add an extra touch of practicality, the bakkie version was a must from INEOS. The Quartermaster is available in three trims: Quartermaster, Trialmaster Edition, and Fieldmaster Edition. During our trip to the Eastern Cape to sample the bakkie, we had a chance to try the Quartermaster, which is quite bare compared to the other two derivatives that come with more standard features. Design-wise it’s got that retro look, like a Defender 130CC/Project Rhino but with modern touches. It’s definitely a head-turner wherever we drove it.

Interior

The inside of the Quartermaster, especially the dash and overhead switches, takes inspiration from aviation. Operating the switches feels more like an event rather than a task, which we quite like. Aside from the switchgear, the interior is pretty basic and utilitarian, though there is an option for heated seats. In the center of the dash, you’ll find an infotainment screen which can be operated by touch or using the rotary dial. The screen displays vital information such as speed, temperature, fuel gauge, and gear position. It also supports wireless Apple CarPlay. The cabin itself has a nice touch to it, but one has to point out that rear legroom is limited if the driver or front passenger is on the taller side.

Engine and Off-Road Capabilities

Powering the Quartermaster is BMW’s much-loved BMW B58 engine, detuned to produce 210 kW and 450 Nm of torque. The legendary engine is paired to a smooth-shifting 8-speed ZF transmission. It’s quite possibly one of the best-sounding bakkies out there. The Quartermaster can be optioned with a 3.0 litre six-cylinder diesel engine, which will come later in the year. When it comes to on-road manners, it is a bit of a mixed bag. On the highway, the Quartermaster moves quite briskly (even though it weighs a good 2600 kg+), but the steering wheel feels a little vague. Off-road, however, is where it comes into its own. One has to admit that this is one of the most comfortable cars we’ve ever driven off-road. The blend of components such as Eibach coil springs, Carraro solid beam axles, and a Gestamp box-sectioned ladder frame all come together to provide a seamless off-road experience. Additionally, stopping power comes courtesy of Brembo brakes at the front and rear.

Baviaanskloof has forever changing terrain, but the Quartermaster managed to conquer it without any drama. We’re sure if we were in any other bakkie, we would have added another 15-20 minutes finessing it to get to camp. One of our favorite features on the Quartermaster is the wading mode, which, when activated, turns off the cooling fan for the engine to avoid sucking in any water. Enhancing its off-road prowess, the Quartermaster can be optioned with front and rear locking differentials (which need a bit of practice to master). Overall, it’s a pleasure to drive.

Conclusion

The starting price for the INEOS Grenadier Quartermaster is R1,717,100 without options, which is quite steep compared to its rivals. We see it as a niche product, and those who buy them know what they’re getting themselves into. That said, it’s quite a throwback-looking car with modern capabilities.