Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Review: A New Contender in the Off-Road Pickup Game

If you like the idea of really rugged on-the-job vehicles that look every bit as functional as they work, then you will probably have heard about the Ineos Grenadier. The Quartermaster, the pickup truck variant of the Grenadier SUV, is generating buzz among hardcore truck enthusiasts and off-roaders. But can this new truck find room among the already crowded field of badass off-roader pickups?

Function Over Flash

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster leaves nothing to the imagination. It’s not aiming to seal the deal with voluptuous curves or premium trims. It isn’t dripping with sex appeal; rather, it is unmistakably practical and long-lasting. From the boxy bodywork inspired by the old school Land Rover Defender, and it shows with its straight to business interior.

What’s Under the Hood?

So, let’s get into the specifics, because this is where the Quartermaster begins flexing its muscles. Here’s what it offers:

• Engines: 3.0L BMW Inline-six engines (both gasoline and diesel)
• Power Output: Approximately 282 horsepower for the gas engine and 246 horsepower for the diesel
• Towing Capacity: Towed Weight up to 7,716 lbs.
• Payload: Approximately 2,200 lbs.
• Drivetrain: Permanent four-wheel drive with a central locking differential, with optional front and rear diff locks
• Transmission: 8-speed ZF auto transmission

All of this mechanical history puts the Quartermaster in good standing to be a true off-road competitor.

A Cabin for Work and Play

Inside, the Quartermaster remains true to its utilitarian ethos, but without forgoing comfort completely. It’s made from tough stuff designed to hold up to muddy boots and rough usage. Sadly, there are no lockouts, but the switchgear is big enough to operate with gloves on, a nice feature if you’re the kind of person who will use this truck in bitterly cold conditions.

A Healthy Dose of Tech:

• Infotainment: Intuitive touchscreen infotainment system which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to match your smartphone
• Seating: Pleasantly supportive and comfortable on long hauls, but it’s not quite plush luxury
• Storage: All the little nooks and crannies for tools, gear, snacks, or whatever you brought

How Does It Drive?

The Quartermaster’s driving is about what you’d expect from this sort of vehicle. It feels composed and stable on the road, though it’s not exactly sports car nimble. But, off the road, it’s a brute.

With its solid frame, live axles, and awesome 4-link suspension, the Quartermaster can handle whatever you throw at it: rocks, mud, streams, and more it’s all in a day’s drive for the QC1. The steering is nimble enough to tackle tricky 4X4 maneuvers, and the ride quality is remarkably good for something that still effectively has a truck underneath it.

The Others…

The off-road pickup truck segment isn’t wanting for entries these days. The Quartermaster’s top rivals include:

Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro

• • Specs: 3.5L V6 with 278HP (opt for manual or auto transmissions)
  • What We Like: Rock-solid dependability and a vast network of dealers, not to mention genuine off-road prowess
  • Why it’s a competitor: The Tacoma is a household name in America, and with good reason, as it’s the go-to choice of many who want a midsize hauler with heavy off-road cred

Ford Ranger Tremor

• • Specs: 2.3L EcoBoost making 270 hp (10-speed auto)
  • What We Like: It’s got an extremely capable off-road package, strong towing, and good pricing
  • Why it’s a competitor: The Ranger Tremor offers contemporary equipment and brawny off-road capability in a somewhat smaller package

Chevrolet Colorado ZR2

• • Specs: Choice of a 3.6L V6 petrol motor or a 2.8L diesel, and will add 369 lb-ft of torque
  • What We Like: Excellent off-road suspension, locking front and rear differentials, striking design
  • Why it’s a competitor: It’s an all-around truck that can handle off-road terrain but still rides comfortably on-road

Jeep Gladiator Rubicon

• • Specs: 3.6L V6 with 285 horsepower or a 3.0L diesel with 442 lb-ft of torque
  • What We Like: The removable roof and doors, off-road capabilities, and the iconic Jeep look
  • Why it’s a competitor: The Gladiator has unmatched off-road capability and offers a fun, open-air driving experience that is difficult to match

Dealer Network: Something to Consider

One possible hitch may be that the Ineos dealer network for American buyers is limited. Even though Ineos is quickly ramping up, it has nowhere near the name recognition of established brands like Toyota, Chevrolet, Ford and many others. That could make servicing and part availability trickier, especially if you are off the beaten path. However, Ineos has promised thoroughly supportive back-up, including mobile servicing in certain markets.

How Expensive is the Quartermaster, and is it Worth It?

As far as U.S. pricing for the Quartermaster is concerned, that’s not been officially revealed yet, although there have been reports that it would reside at the upper crust of the midsize pickup realm. With its custom engineering, BMW-provided powerplants, and durability-focused design philosophy, the price could be worth it for those who require its unique combination of abilities. But it will have to beat deals from its rivals, which are time-tested.

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is a one-of-a-kind offering in the off-road pickup space. It’s not for everyone, but if you value capability, make-it-through-anything durability, and a smidge of old-school cool, then it’s a compelling pick. And with its no-nonsense design, solid performance, and off-road credentials, the Silverado is an excellent tool for adventurers, farmers, and anyone who needs a truck that works as hard as they do. That said, the modest dealer network and unproven brand cachet may give some potential purchasers pause.

Would You Take the Quartermaster Over Its Rivals?

Thus, the big question: Would you choose the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster over a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, Ford Ranger Tremor, Chevrolet Colorado ZR2, or Jeep Gladiator Rubicon? Each are good trucks and cater to slightly different target markets.

Tell us in the comments below what you would choose and why. Are you willing to take a chance on an Ineos, or would you prefer to stick with something that’s had a little more staying power?