Ineos Grenadier gets road-focused updates while keeping off-road character

The Ineos Grenadier is entering the second half of its life cycle, retaining its iconic rugged character while receiving its first significant road-focused updates. The manufacturer hasn't wasted resources on cosmetics—instead, the emphasis is on what owners experience daily: steering precision, highway behavior, and the performance of climate and digital systems.

New Road Manners

The main change is a completely redesigned steering system developed in collaboration with Magna. It features variable ratio steering: the wheel feels more stable around the center position and lighter at larger angles. This makes highway driving less twitchy, simplifies parking, and improves control in urban environments. The turning radius has been reduced by 5%, a noticeable improvement for a body-on-frame off-roader.

Meanwhile, the off-road essence remains untouched: the transfer case, locking differentials, and 550 Nm of torque from the BMW diesel engine allow the Grenadier to continue tackling any terrain. Performance stays the same—0-100 km/h in 9.6 seconds and a top speed of 160 km/h, aligning with the philosophy of a "tool-like" off-roader rather than a sporty crossover.

Character Without Compromise

Inside, the Grenadier remains defiantly utilitarian. Large toggles, an aircraft-style dashboard, and a simple screen contrast with the digital spectacles of the Defender and G-Class. The seating is snug, the seats heat but don't massage; the engine noise is "rougher" and more honest than in any BMW. Yet comfort has improved: a new, quieter climate system, a digital rearview mirror, and an updated suite of driver assists.

The driver assistance system now includes mandatory EU elements: automatic emergency braking, attention monitoring, and improved lane-keeping. But Ineos's signature irony persists: disabling the intrusive speed limiter is easier here than in any modern car.

Utility and Practicality

The Grenadier remains a vehicle where functionality matters most. The rear seat is still tighter than in the Defender, but new pockets have been added, storage nooks refined, and cabin organization improved. External cargo functionality—the ladder, mounting points, spare tire—remains a key part of its identity.