Tough Ineos Grenadier fits the bill

SOUTH African 4x4 enthusiasts will soon be able to get their hands on the Ineos Grenadier, a new five-seat station wagon regarded by many as a modern equivalent of the original Land Rover Defender.

Ineos has announced South African pricing and specifications ahead of the order books opening on May 18, along with an online configurator and customer contact centre.

The Ineos Grenadier will initially be available in a range of six models, priced from R1416985 for the standard model, while the higher-spec Trailmaster and Fieldmaster editions are both priced from R1528940.

Buyers can choose between BMW-sourced 3.0-litre turbocharged petrol and diesel engines, which cost the same amount. The petrol engine produces 210kW and 450Nm, while the twin-turbo diesel is good for 183kW and 550Nm. Both offer a braked towing capacity of 3.5 tonnes.

The Ineos Grenadier engines are paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox and a permanent four-wheel drive system with a two-speed transfer case sourced from Tremec.

Standard on the Trailmaster and optional on the other models are front and rear electronically actuated diff locks with 100% mechanical engagement. These can be independently toggled from the overhead control panel and automatically disengage at 75km/h to protect the drivetrain.

Its off-roading brag sheet also includes a ground clearance of 264mm, wading depth of 800mm and respective approach, breakover and departure angles of 36.2, 28.2 and 31.6 degrees.

The Grenadier is built around a full box-section ladder frame chassis, and also features heavy-duty solid beam axles designed for extreme off-road conditions and heavy loads. Its standard under-ride protection includes front and rear skid plates as well as fuel tank protection.

The 17-inch steel wheels are standard, but 18” steelies or alloys are also available in 17” or 18” sizes.

An optional compass and altimeter are included on Trailmaster and Fieldmaster Editions.