Purpose Over Performance
While the smooth, conservative BMW-sourced engines in the Ineos Grenadier serve their purpose, the retro-styled off-roader hasn’t prioritized high performance. A more potent version may help the Grenadier be in the same conversation as popular 4x4 SUVs such as the Mercedes-AMG G63, but that seems like a long shot.
However, CarExpert sought an update from Ineos Automotive on whether the automaker had changed its mind. Perhaps slightly, though nothing particularly convincing so far. Ineos Australia head Justin Hocevar told the publication at the launch of the MY26 Grenadier range, “We’d like to see something like that come here.”
Enthusiasm for the V8 Concept
According to Hocevar, the V8-powered concept unveiled at Goodwood “received a lot of enthusiasm” not only from customers but also from dealer networks and distributors. Some of that interest could also be tied to markets like the U.S., where V8 engines remain particularly popular. The concept used a 6.2-liter LS V8 from General Motors, a platform that many American enthusiasts know well and one that enjoys massive aftermarket support.
What is clear, however, is the performance boost: the LS-swapped concept produces 425 horsepower and 461 lb-ft of torque. That represents more than a 140-horsepower increase over the standard 3.0-liter gasoline B58 inline-six from BMW. The same unit is used in the outgoing Toyota GR Supra, although the performance car delivers 382 horsepower. Ineos detuned the engine to prioritize reliability and improve low-end torque, traits better suited for off-roading.
One challenge is that mass-producing the V8 version at its France-based manufacturing plant would require re-engineering several components, which would drive up costs.
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Sticking With BMW Power
For now, Hocevar explained that Ineos is retaining the current BMW engines, saying, “We already know there’s huge potential that’s yet to be tapped in our version of the B57 and B58 engines. Obviously, BMW and Toyota run higher output versions in some of their vehicles, and we’ve seen some solutions tested in the aftermarket already.”
He added, “So, I think that that’s the best way to go.”
In the U.S., the Grenadier with the standard B58 engine starts at $71,000, excluding destination fees. The B57 diesel, available in other markets, isn’t sold stateside. A Black Edition is also offered for $82,995 for those who prefer a murdered-out look.
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