With the death of the previous-generation Land Rover Defender, a hole was left in the realm of simple, and rugged British SUVs. But that is about to change, with the introduction of the INEOS Grenadier. Which has recently been seen in prototype form. This 4×4 SUV will offer four-wheel drive, old-school looks, and is expected to come to the U.S. next year. Opening a whole new world for off-road enthusiasts.

What is the INEOS Grenadier?

The Grenadier is a 4×4 SUV that is the brainchild of Jim Ratcliffe. According to Car and Driver, Ratcliffe is the CEO of the INEOS chemical company and has a passion for all things vintage SUVs. The truck is named after the pub where this vehicle was born, The Grenadier.

The SUV will benefit from a BMW inline-six. Which should deliver decent enough power. It will also feature body-on-frame construction. Making this a rugged vehicle, ready to handle rough conditions. Better yet, available electronic locking front and rear differentials will add to the overall capability of the Grenadier.

If all of that wasn’t enough, the new Grenadier looks the part as well. So much so, that the company faced some legal trouble with Jaguar Land Rover. The producer of the iconic Defender SUV.

How capable is the INEOS Grenadier?

While modern Land Rover vehicles may place an emphasis on comfort and luxury, the Grenadier places its focus on utility. With front and rear live axles, a standard two-speed transfer case, and a locking center differential, the intent of this vehicle is clear. 

There will not be adjustable drive modes, but frankly, this vehicle won’t need them. It aims to be simple and tough. Much like the Jeep Wrangler is here in the U.S. Unfortunately, it appears that the Grenadier will not be available with a manual transmission. Which will be a disappointment to those who prefer to row their own gears. 

While a variety of engine options will be available overseas. It looks like America will just get a single gas engine. 

Who is the Grenadier for? 

This SUV is for someone who is looking for a no-frills, off-road SUV. Although it is estimated that the Grenadier will cost around $75,000, this British SUV does not even come with hill descent control. Which is almost standard on every other 4×4 SUV. 

Despite the lack of some modern features, the Grenadier will boast traction control and the interior should be fairly comfortable. Which is not something that can be said for the old Defender. And for now, the powertrain can be easily identifiable as a BMW build, with its unique gear selector. 

When will the IEOS Grenadier go on sale?

In the current climate, it is hard to make guarantees. INEOS hopes to put the Grenadier on sale in the U.S. at some point next year. And with its 10.4 inches of ground clearance and off-road capability, it should find some success as an old-school, 4×4 SUV. Filling a place in the market that is becoming more and more complex.