16/09/2024 Rugged and built for purpose the Ineos Grenadier ‘Quatermaster’ is the pick up, double-cab variant of the rugged Grenadier 4X4. Its rear deck can take a Euro pallet thanks to its stretched body. In essence, the 5.44 metre long pick up is packed with the same kit as the stationwagon Grenadier but offers even greater utility.
The Grenadier is an outrageous off roader and its back story is terrific. Read our original Grenadier review here: https://motorhub.ie/ineos-grenadier-review/ So what does the Quartermaster offer that the standard Grenadier doesn’t? Well it is classed as a commercial with N1 status for starters. This is thanks to its rear deck size and carrying ability (1,56m long, 1.62m wide and 48cm tall. Quartermaster can take a payload of up to 835kgs and has a towing capacity of 3,500kgs (braked). The tailgate can hold up to 225kgs and makes a nice standing platform. On top of Grenadier’s go anywhere ability the Quartermaster delivers a rear deck that can take anything from a couple of calves to multiple bales of hay – without getting the five-seat cabin messed up. Although with a wash out cabin floor with in built drain plugs, a mess wouldn’t be an issue. The Quartermaster has a stretched wheelbase that is 305mm longer than the Grenadier’s and this helps the vehicle look well proportioned – it is a real head turner with professional drivers -thats for sure!
Power for the Quartermaster comes from the same source as the Grenadier – so buyers have a choice of a 3 litre diesel (248hp) or 3 litre petrol (283hp) straight-six-cylinder turbocharged engines sourced from BMW – with no price penalty. Both use an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox. The Quartermaster is surprisingly quick, but moving off in the 2.7 tonne all wheel drive can feel a little sluggish and agricultural. A firmer press on the accelerator and the beast takes off with real gusto. The ride is very good with Bilstein shocks and coil springs all round – so no bouncing rear leaf suspension here!
All the underpinnings of the vehicle are top quality and if you asked any off road expert to choose better, they would have a hard time trying too! The axles, differentials and all other off road stuff are simply top class. The only failing is the dreadful, labour intensive steering that remains a major niggle with all Grenadiers. It doesn’t self-centre and demands constant attention – even on straight roads. The turning circle of the Quartermaster is appalling on road but off-road it is less of an issue as you can use throttle power and grip or lack of grip to assist in making turns. On the road any slow manoeuvre is testing on the driver.
The Commercial (N1) Quartermaster pricing starts from €68,995 plus VAT (Trialmaster grade €74,995 plus VAT). There is a long list of optional goodies to choose from. There is a five year unlimited mileage warranty with five year breakdown cover and optional five year servicing pack. The chassis has a twelve year anti perforation warranty. Quartermaster is available in Trialmaster & Fieldmaster Editions. The Quartermaster is a highly capable off road machine with an abundance of versatility.
It should not be confused with more urban friendly pickups like VW’s Amarok or Toyota’s Hilux. Our test vehicle with its roof bars stood over 2 metres and was too tall for any barrier controlled car parks. Our test car had two tilt-opening sunroofs that did not have shades so direct sunlight often got in our eyes when driving and a word of caution for anyone shorter that six feet tall, when getting in, you will need to almost jump up on to the driver’s seat while holding on to the steering wheel unless you have running bars fitted. Supermarkets or car parks are a nightmare to get around and a reminder that the Quartermaster is a true off road vehicle, built to tackle the real jungle – not an urban one. Michael Sheridan
