The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is a very unusual vehicle. Built in France, powered by a BMW six-cylinder engine, and styled like a rugged, old-school workhorse, the Quartermaster blends global engineering in one of the most interesting midsize pickups to debut in recent years. With a starting price around $88,500 and climbing close to $96,000 for top trims, this isn’t your average off-road truck — it’s a statement.
Ineos Grenadier SUV, Built in France- Powered by Germany, Inspired by Britain
The Quartermaster is the pickup version of the Ineos Grenadier SUV, the brainchild of a British billionaire nostalgic for the classic Land Rover Defender. Built at a repurposed Smart factory in Hambach, France, the truck uses the BMW B58 turbocharged inline-six engine, the same found in the BMW Z4, X3 M40i, and 340i. It produces around 280 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.
Despite its capable engine, performance isn’t its strength — 0 to 60 mph takes around 9 seconds, and fuel efficiency is a dismal 12 mpg. At 5,900 pounds, it’s heavy, slow, and boxy. But that’s kind of the point.
Why It Costs So Much
Aside from being hand-built in France, the Quartermaster is subject to the “chicken tax” — a 25% tariff on foreign-built pickups in the U.S., which significantly inflates its price. Unlike larger automakers who can shift production to North America, Ineos lacks the scale to do so. Thus, the Quartermaster is a pricey import.
Old-School Boxiness Meets Modern Cool
While most modern trucks have moved toward sleek lines and aerodynamic profiles, the Grenadier Quartermaster stays proudly boxy and upright, channeling vibes from old Land Cruisers, Defenders, and Patrols. It’s one of the only vehicles that maintains this classic aesthetic — aside from the Mercedes G-Wagon — and the only one that offers a true pickup truck configuration.
The exterior is full of practical quirks:
- Rain gutters like those on houses
- Roof and bed-mounted accessory rails
- Asymmetrical badging including British-German flags (reflecting its dual heritage)
- Subtle “Powered by BMW” logos
- Spare tire and hidden storage mounted in the bed
- Trim plaque under the windshield
- “Quartermaster” stamped only on the driver’s side of the tailgate
Dimensions and Practicality
At 212.6 inches, the Quartermaster is about two feet longer than the Grenadier SUV, with a fixed 5-foot bed and crew cab layout only. That places it firmly in midsize truck territory, comparable in size to a Toyota Tacoma, but priced more like a luxury full-size truck.
In terms of capability:
- 10.3 inches of ground clearance
- 7,700+ lbs of towing capacity
- 1,850 lbs of payload
It’s an impressive off-roader — even if it lacks many American pickup bed amenities, like power outlets, tailgate steps, or in-bed storage.
Interior: Utility Over Luxury
Inside, the Quartermaster is a true quirk-fest. The dashboard is dominated by physical buttons, dials, and switches, rather than touchscreens. Think exposed screws, square lines, and a utilitarian look reminiscent of a military vehicle — not a modern crossover.
Some highlights-
- Manual-folding key (no push-button start)
- Roof-mounted control panel with off-road switches
- Removable dual sunroofs with branded carrying case
- Massive center screen that doubles as the gauge cluster
- A compass and digital altimeter below the screen
- Two horns: one for loud emergencies, another for a gentle “toot” to warn cyclists
The interior quality doesn’t match the price tag — plastic surfaces, no power seats, and manual adjustments on an $89,000 vehicle are hard to justify. You do get under-seat storage, a locking center console, and USB-A and USB-C ports in the rear.
Rear seat comfort is average for the segment but not luxurious. The seats are upright, legroom is tight, and while you get vents and charging ports, there’s no under-seat storage or reclining ability.
Driving Experience: Capable But Imperfect
On the road, the Quartermaster feels solid and surprisingly refined for such a rugged machine. Ride quality is better than a Toyota Sequoia or even some midsize pickups. The interior is relatively quiet, and the BMW powertrain is smooth and competent, if a bit mismatched to the truck’s personality.
However, the steering is a major downside. It doesn’t self-center, and the truck tends to wander on the highway, requiring constant input. Driver aids can be annoying too — especially the default speed limit warning, which must be disabled every time.
Despite these quirks, if you’re someone who loved the classic SUVs of the past, you’ll appreciate the Grenadier. It’s not trying to be a Range Rover or a Lexus — it’s trying to be a modern classic, and it succeeds at that.
Final Verdict
The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is not for everyone. It’s expensive, quirky, and lacks the comfort and features of cheaper rivals. But for a certain niche buyer — someone who craves rugged utility, retro charm, and distinctiveness — it’s one of the most interesting pickups on the market.
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