Motors with Joe Rayfus: Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster: A No-Nonsense Workhorse

In the ‘pickup’ world, the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is a seriously rugged addition. Intended as a brawny workhorse, the Quartermaster’s roots are firmly grounded in its no-nonsense, off-road capabilities. Just like its sibling, the Grenadier SUV, this pick-up is more than just another regular lifestyle 4x4 SUV designed to fleet between a building site and a school run. Whether on the farm or for business, it is a beast that thrives in the muck of a bog, handles loads like a champ and can easily take on the heaviest of heavy-duty tasks.

The Quartermaster is longer than the standard Grenadier SUV by almost a metre, and has an extended wheelbase of 305mm, which makes a noticeable difference when it comes to load capacity. The drop-down tailgate reveals a load bay big enough to accommodate a Euro pallet (1200 x 800mm) if you decide to remove the spare wheel. It’s not flashy, but it’s functional.

The departure and breakover angles aren’t as sharp as the Grenadier SUV, which is expected given the longer chassis, but don’t let that fool you – this machine can still tackle serious off-road challenges.

The approach angle remains unchanged, and with a ground clearance that’s plenty for hills and rocky fields, the Quartermaster is no slouch when it comes to getting through sticky situations. Whether it’s uneven farmland, flooded tracks, or gravel quarries, this vehicle is engineered to keep moving.

Under the bonnet, the Quartermaster comes with two engine options: both sourced from BMW, either a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel or a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol. The diesel, with its hefty 406 lb-ft of torque, is the obvious choice for pulling heavy loads. It can tow up to 3,500kg, which is ideal for those with horseboxes, trailers, or machinery. The petrol version, on the other hand, offers a smoother and slightly quicker ride, better suited perhaps if your work involves more on-road miles but you still want the strength to handle tough jobs when required.

With both engines paired to an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox, you get seamless power delivery whether you are cruising on the motorway or creeping along in low gear while navigating treacherous off-road conditions. The low gearing, lockable differentials, and five-link coil spring suspension – a standout feature not often seen in pick-ups – make for excellent traction and comfort when the going gets tough. This setup is ideal for any farmer or contractor who needs to balance on-road comfort with off-road performance.

Off-road, the Quartermaster is as capable as its SUV sibling. The suspension’s ability to soak up bumps and dips, while keeping the tyres glued to the ground, is nothing short of impressive. The low-range gearing is a must for any serious off-roader, and it’s here where the Quartermaster really shines. Whether it's navigating muddy ditches or steep inclines, it does so with ease, turning tricky terrain into a walk in the park.

Inside, the Ineos Quartermaster is refreshingly simple. It’s designed to be utilitarian, with rugged materials that you can hose down after a long day of work. The cabin is functional and robust – from the chunky switches and big glove-friendly buttons to the sturdy hose-clean mats, everything is built with durability in mind. It’s not a luxury cruiser, but that’s exactly the point.

However, it’s not all stripped back. The infotainment system, which is borrowed from BMW, is intuitive, and easy to use, with clear menus to access all the essential data. It’s not the latest tech, but it’s more than enough for the Quartermaster’s purpose.

For those looking for a genuine workhorse, the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster is a strong contender. It doesn’t try to be anything other than a robust, off-road capable pick-up that can handle heavy loads. It’s perfect for anyone who regularly deals with tough jobs on demanding terrain, whether it’s farmers, contractors, or outdoor adventurers. That said, it’s not the most affordable pick-up on the market. With a starting price of €68,995 ex VAT; you could find cheaper alternatives that offer similar levels of practicality. However, few will match the off-road prowess and sheer ruggedness of the Quartermaster, which makes it a stand-out option for those who need a vehicle that can tackle the harshest Irish conditions without flinching.

For those who need a reliable, capable, and tough vehicle for work or extreme off-roading, the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster delivers – and then some. But just forget about school runs and grocery shopping!