Having already showcased its serious off-road credentials with the Grenadier SUV, the Quartermaster pickup builds on that rugged charm by adding a practical rear load bed while retaining its twin-cab configuration. Ineos offers both petrol and diesel engine options sourced from BMW, though the diesel variant will likely be the more appealing choice for this market. Now, with the launch of a two-seat commercial (N1) version of the Grenadier Quartermaster pickup, businesses and fleet operators have a more cost-efficient option available. Ahead of its arrival, we’ve gotten behind the wheel of a pre-production prototype to see what buyers can expect.
What’s it like inside the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1?
If you’re after a pickup with a robust, industrial vibe, the interior of the Quartermaster N1 will hit the mark. The upright dashboard layout - carried over from the Grenadier SUV - features a centre console packed with tactile buttons and rotary controls. Designed to resemble a classic aircraft cockpit, it’s a unique and functional setup. Even the visible Allen bolts, though decorative, contribute to the utilitarian aesthetic. A touchscreen display sits atop the dashboard, but its basic menu system is straightforward and not overly distracting, even if the screen’s brightness and resolution fall short of competitors.
The centre console is a mix of practical and quirky, featuring a traditional handbrake—always a welcome touch—a rotary controller for the infotainment, and cupholders. While the metallic-look controls appear rugged, they feel lighter than expected. Overhead switches, pre-wired for accessories like light bars, further enhance the practical and aeronautical theme. Optional safari windows above the front seats add charm and ventilation.
In the N1 variant, the rear cabin has been reconfigured with a rigid mesh bulkhead separating it from the front seats. Rear doors retain their windows and controls, while a flat panel covers the seat mounts, offering access to the battery compartment. This space totals 850 litres of cargo volume, making it practical for business use, although there aren’t harder-wearing covers on the door cards; these are the same as the passenger version. Ineos also sticks with glass in the rear doors.
Driving the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1
Ineos prioritised genuine off-road ability and durability when designing the Grenadier series, and the Quartermaster N1 stays true to that vision. However, its on-road performance is surprisingly competent, especially compared to typical pickups.
Most pickups suffer from stiff suspension and bouncy rides when their load beds are empty, but the Grenadier Quartermaster N1 strikes a better balance. While its load capacity isn’t class-leading, the ride comfort is a worthwhile trade-off. It’s not as smooth as the Ford Ranger Raptor supple performance-derived shocks, but it handles uneven tarmac with greater composure than many competitors.
The BMW-sourced diesel engine delivers strong low-end torque, while the eight-speed automatic gearbox provides smooth, efficient shifts. With 249hp on tap, it’s powerful enough for most tasks, although the engine can be noisy when pressed harder. One quirk is the lack of self-centring steering, which requires the driver to manually straighten the wheel after turns—a minor inconvenience that’s easy to adapt to. That said, we wish that the turning circle was better, as at 14.5 metres it can be a downside in tighter spaces. Another slightly negative point is the restriction in space in the footwell of right-hand drive models due to an bulkhead intrusion from the the engine and exhaust system. It eats into the space where you might typically rest your left foot (with this being an automatic), so longer journeys make not be so comfortable.
Off-road is where the Quartermaster N1 shows its best side, and it’s ability to tackle such hard terrain is partly why some of the compromises to its on-road abilities are present. High ground clearance, impressive approach and departure angles, and simplified mechanical systems make the Quartermaster adept at tackling challenging terrain. Unlike many of its rivals, which can often be laden with electronic aids, Ineos opts for mechanical simplicity. Part of this is to mitigate failures though having fewer electrical ECUs inside the car which can be potential weak points, in theory making the Quartermaster N1 reliable.
During some more challenging off-road driving we did rely on the hill descent function to help with some of the particularly steep angles we encountered. As well as being easy to operate, it makes very light work of bringing the Quartermaster down a muddy, rutted section with such minimal fuss that even those with little-to-no off-road experience will feel confident it making progress. The wave of low-down pulling power adds to that as you rarely have to work the engine very hard to cover ground that would be a real challenge to do on foot.
Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1 dimensions
At 5,440mm in total length, the Grenadier Quartermaster N1 is 545mm longer than the SUV version, thanks to an extended wheelbase of 3,227mm (compared to the Grenadier’s 2,922mm). Buyers can choose between 17- or 18-inch wheels in steel or alloy. Despite the added length for the load bed, it retains a solid 22.6-degree departure angle, with a 35.5-degree approach angle and a 26.2-degree breakover angle. However, its 2,019mm height means it won’t fit in some multi-storey car parks, so keep that in mind.
Technology in the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1
A centrally placed 12.3-inch touchscreen forms the tech hub of the Quartermaster N1. The system is easy to navigate, with most functions accessible through physical buttons, meaning minimal reliance on the screen. The rotary controller offers an alternative way to manage the infotainment system. Wired Android Auto and wireless or wired Apple CarPlay are supported, and a reversing camera is standard.
How practical is the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1?
While exceptional off-road, the Quartermaster N1’s practicality is somewhat hampered by the placement of its spare wheel in the load bed rather than underneath. This positioning simplifies access but reduces cargo space and complicates the use of accessories like retractable tonneau covers. Without the spare wheel, the load bed can accommodate a Euro pallet, and the payload capacity is rated at 835kg. There are some aftermarket roof covers available if you’d prefer to have the load bed fully enclosed. The tailgate, measuring 1,280mm in width, supports up to 225kg when open, so it’ll easily function as somewhere to sit when you’re having a break of putting on your work boots.
The rear cabin offers 850 litres of storage with tie-down points and a flat cover over the seat mounting area, under which is access to the vehicle’s battery. However, storage options for odds and ends in the front cabin are limited. When it comes to towing, the Grenadier Quartermaster is right up at sharp end of the table thanks to its 3,500kg braked towing capacity.
How safe is the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1?
The Quartermaster N1 combines traditional hardware with modern safety systems. Features include intelligent speed assistance, lane departure warnings, automatic emergency braking, and driver fatigue detection. Front, side, knee, and curtain airbags come as standard. However, Ineos has not yet submitted the vehicle for Euro NCAP crash testing.
Why buy an Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1?
The Grenadier Quartermaster N1 is a practical choice for buyers prioritising off-road ability over lifestyle-focused design. Its rugged build and mechanical simplicity are ideal for specialist applications, from utility work to search and rescue. Pre-wired ports and other features simplify the addition of accessories, such as auxiliary lights, and the power outlet in the load bed will be useful for some tradespeople. One added bonus is that its 3,500kg weight ensures it can be driven on a standard B car licence. Fleet operators and company car drivers will appreciate its classification as a two-seat commercial vehicle, as it qualifies for an 8 per cent BIK rate.
How much does the IIneos Grenadier Quartermaster N1 cost in Ireland?
Pricing for the Quartermaster N1 is expected to start at around €60,000 plus VAT, making it more affordable than the regular Quartermaster (€68,995 plus VAT) and other models in the range.
What are the running costs of the Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster N1 like?
Powered by a BMW-sourced ‘B57’ diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic, the Quartermaster N1 has an official fuel consumption of 11.6 litres per 100km, though actual figures will vary based on usage and load. Servicing is required annually, and the vehicle comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, five-year AA roadside assistance, and a 12-year chassis anti-perforation warranty. Ineos also offers an optional five-year service pack.
Summary
The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster very much ploughs its own furrow. It is unapologetic in its utilitarian approach to design and functionality. Despite that, it manages to strike a decent balance between its ability to cope with challenging conditions and terrain in off-road conditions, while maintaining a very acceptable degree of comfort on-road. Furthermore, its N1 classification will make it appealing on paper to business users.