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Ineos shows off utilitarian Grenadier interior

Wednesday, 7 July 2021

Ineos Automotive has just revealed its take on a rugged, utilitarian off-roader - the all-new Grenadier.

The Ineos Grenadier is inching closer to a full production release, with new images coming of the interior. Spoiler: it looks awesome.

“When we started thinking about the Grenadier’s interior, we looked carefully at modern aircraft, boats and even tractors for inspiration, where switches are sited for optimal function, regular controls are close to hand, auxiliary ones are further away,” said Toby Ecuyer, Head of Design.

He’s not wrong, because the Grenadier’s interior looks incredibly functional and utilitarian. Toggle switches and dials on the centre and overhead consoles are widely spaced and clearly labelled, while auxiliary switches have been built in, pre-wired to support the addition of winches, work lights and other accessories.

There’s definitely a BMW powertrain beneath the skin. But how cool does the array of switches look?
There’s definitely a BMW powertrain beneath the skin. But how cool does the array of switches look?

There is some modern tech though, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and an off-road navigation system that “lets drivers to programme, follow and record their route via waypoints, when roads and tracks are left behind.”

**READ MORE:

Inspiration for the interior came from aeroplanes, if you couldn’t tell.
Inspiration for the interior came from aeroplanes, if you couldn’t tell.

* Ineos partners with The Halo Trust to develop Grenadier

* Grenadier SUV gets a production home

* Land Rover Defender reborn?

**

The BMW association is evident in the gear selector, while it looks like the infotainment system is of Bavarian origins as well. The round transfer shifter almost looks a bit odd next to the BMW stick.

Drain plugs in the rubber floor and wipe-down upholstery means you can easily hose out the interior, while the Recaro-supplied seats are water-resistant as well. For those less interested in the muddy stuff, carpets and leather upholstery will be available.

Storage space has been maximised, with a dry stowing box under the rear seat, a lockable central console cubby box, and secure side-mounted storage in the rear load area.

There is also scope for customisation, with a wide range of interior options and accessories to choose from.

Dirk Heilmann, INEOS Automotive’s CEO, said: “Inside and out, the Grenadier has been designed to do a job - to get people and their kit where they want to go in comfort, in control and with no fuss. It just works.”

Right now, the Grenadier is halfway through its testing distance goal of 1.8 million kilometres. Some are helping clear mines with The Halo Trust, which involved negotiating pitted, rocky and occasionally undriveable roads.

“Seeing how drivers deal with the terrain and repair vehicles in challenging conditions and with only basic tools has helped shape the ongoing development of the Grenadier,” the company said in a release.