So, knowing what you know, would you buy it again?

[Jeremy996]

My only regret is my husband’s reaction to the Grenadier. My dream car was always the Defender, and I had a Discovery 1 & 2, and now a 2005 LR3 is our second car. Hubs had no affinity whatsoever for my love of Defenders or Discos. Then we got the G. Well, it’s now HIS dream car!!! I work from home — but he drives so he takes the G every day! Turd.

Huh! That went well.

My wife thinks I'm mad - she does not drive the Grenadier ever, although happy to be a passenger in it. (More than can be said for the LR110CSW before it, which she cordially hated, unless it was snowing/stormy).

 

[Mad Hatter]

After a year of ownership and 45000km I would not buy again until the known issues with the car have been properly resolved ( no need to repeat them here as you all know what they are ). The issues detract from what is otherwise a fantastic vehicle.

 

[Fast Tractor]

Coming from Toyotas (landcruisers) and big diesel trucks I always thought the Grenadier was quite peppy. I mean if you floor it you'll realize pretty quick its not a 911. But off the line it has decent torque and I have been quite pleased with that aspect of the vehicle.

Additionally, I was never looking for big luxury amenities of a G-Wagon. I don't mind not having AC seats - my Ram3500 cummins has them but I knew the Grenadier was supposed to be "simple" so I was fine with it. I loved the backstory of the Gren and knew what I was getting myself into buying a solid front axle vehicle. While I think the steering sucks I don't think the drivability is impossible to live with. Its a spirited drive compared to vehicles with IFS and is what it is.

For me it comes down to the fact that at the current price point I expect it to work close to perfect just like every other automobile on the market. I could buy a new Honda civic today for 1/3rd the price of a Gren and it would just work. Def not as cool or an apples to apples comparison but the point I'm trying to illustrate is that even at a significantly lower price point, auto manufacturers are able to deliver a reliable product and make good on their claims. So why can't ineos? Whats the excuse? We just need to roll with it because they can't get it right? And continue to be happy about it? F-that! I remained patient for a year and now I'm over it.

None of the issues have caused me to be stranded on the side of the road but that also doesn't make any of it acceptable. I want to love it. But what was delivered is short of what I believe a "reasonable" persons expectations would be, and that is at a tier of car buying (expensive) where people have high expectations. Unless your'e a direhard that loves to justify that crap you live with, it fell short of what they told the world it would be. So, what was delivered didn't meet my expectations and is the root of why I don't like it. That is on me. Its also on Ineos for putting out a half baked product. But this is ultimately why I answer a resounding NO.

 

[ADVAW8S]

I wonder how these people feel
AI Mode

The list of complaints and recalls for 2024 vehicles is extensive, with issues commonly centered on electrical systems, braking, powertrains, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
. These problems are not limited to one specific automaker, with major recalls and owner reports affecting a wide range of manufacturers, including Tesla, Ford, Chrysler/Stellantis, and Honda.

Common complaints across 2024 vehicles

Electrical and software glitches

• Persistent infotainment issues: Software problems continue to plague many new vehicles. Owners frequently report their infotainment systems freezing, rebooting unexpectedly, or being unresponsive.
• Failed electrical systems: Sudden electrical system failures and battery drain have been widely reported, sometimes causing the vehicle to shut down completely while driving.
• Driver assistance system failures: Advanced safety systems like backup cameras, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and forward collision warnings have malfunctioned, sometimes stopping without warning.

Braking system problems

• Poor braking performance: Several models have reports of "soft," spongy, or unresponsive brake pedals, leading to increased stopping distances and safety concerns.
• Unexpected braking: Some drivers have experienced "phantom braking," where the vehicle suddenly brakes hard for no apparent reason.
• Warning light failures: Issues with the electronic brake control module have caused warning lights to fail, meaning drivers are not alerted to brake fluid loss.

Powertrain issues

• Transmission problems: Complaints about hard or rough shifting are common, along with reports of transmissions slipping between gears, delaying shifts, or failing entirely.
• Engine stalling and failure: Some vehicles experience unexpected engine stalling, excessive oil consumption, or even complete engine failure.
• Hybrid system malfunctions: Owners of some plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models report more problems than owners of gas-powered or standard hybrid vehicles, with issues like unexplained battery drain or engine problems.

Specific recalls for 2024 vehicles

Tesla

• Software issues: Tesla recalled millions of vehicles, including the Cybertruck, Model 3, Model S, and Model Y, for software-related issues. One major recall was due to incorrect font sizes for warning lights on the instrument panel, which was addressed with an over-the-air (OTA) software update.
• Hood latch problems: Nearly 1.85 million Model 3, Model S, Model X, and Model Y vehicles were recalled because the hood latch assembly could fail to detect if the hood was unlatched.

Ford

• Detaching exterior trim: A recall affected almost 1.9 million Explorer models for retention clips that could allow windshield pillar trim to detach, creating a road hazard.
• Transmission and electrical problems (F-150): Owners have reported issues with the 10-speed transmission, including rough shifting, along with widespread electrical system malfunctions.
• Unexpected downshifts: Ford recalled over 550,000 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles for a software issue that could cause an unexpected downshift.
• EV battery fire risk: A manufacturing defect in the high-voltage battery cells of some 2020–2024 Escape and 2021–2024 Lincoln Corsair vehicles could lead to an internal short circuit and fire.

Chrysler/Stellantis

• Backup camera failure: Software malfunctions in the radio have prevented the rearview image from displaying on over 1 million vehicles, including the Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Durango, and Jeep Grand Cherokee.
• Braking and stability control issues: A software malfunction in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module affected over 1 million Ram 1500 trucks, potentially disabling the electronic stability control.
• EV battery fire risk (Jeep): Some 2020–2024 Jeep Wrangler and 2022–2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee plug-in hybrids were recalled for an internal battery failure that could cause a fire.

Chevrolet

• Tailgate failure: Some 2020–2024 Silverado 2500 and 3500 trucks were recalled because water intrusion could cause the electronic tailgate switch to short circuit, leading to the tailgate inadvertently opening while the vehicle is in park.
• Engine and transmission (Traverse): The 2024 Traverse, a new generation for this model year, has received numerous owner complaints and NHTSA reports for transmission failures at low mileage and brake malfunctions.
• Electrical problems (Traverse): The 2024 Traverse has also experienced electrical system issues, with owners reporting frequent dashboard warning messages and driver assistance features failing.

Kia

• Electrical and software (Sorento): Recalls have addressed a software error in the Body Domain Control Unit (BDC) that could cause a loss of low-beam headlights and taillights on the 2024–2025 Sorento.
• Power steering (Sorento): A manufacturing defect in the motor-driven power steering (MDPS) harness on some 2024 Sorentos could result in a loss of power steering assist.
• Overheating seat motor (Telluride): Over 462,000 Tellurides (including 2024 models) were recalled for a power seat motor that could overheat and cause a fire.

Honda

• Steering gearbox defects: Honda recalled over 1.6 million vehicles, including 2023–2025 Civic and CR-V models, for a potential steering gearbox defect that can cause excessive friction and difficulty steering.
• Fuel pump leaks: Some 2023–2024 Accord and CR-V Hybrid vehicles were recalled because the high-pressure fuel pump could crack and leak fuel.

 

[ADVAW8S]

But I paid a large sum of money and I expect that the car should be damn perfect.

AI Mode
For 2024 vehicles priced over $75,000, common complaints and recalls frequently involve advanced technology features, complex drivetrains, and quality control issues
. Electric vehicles (EVs), in particular, have seen significant recalls related to battery and electrical systems.

Common complaints

Software and technology failures

• Infotainment system glitches: Despite sophisticated systems, owners report frequent software issues, including screens freezing, restarting, or going completely blank.
• Malfunctioning driver assistance systems: Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking can fail or behave erratically. For instance, some drivers have reported "phantom braking," where the vehicle suddenly brakes for no reason.
• Issues with wireless features: Problems with wireless features like Apple CarPlay can make them unreliable, defeating the purpose of paying for a premium cabin experience.
• EV charging and battery issues: Some EV owners complain of poor charging performance and unexplained battery drain.

Mechanical and build quality problems

• Engine and powertrain issues: These vehicles can have hard or rough shifting transmissions, excessive oil consumption, or a sudden loss of engine power.
• Interior quality defects: Some luxury owners have complained about fit-and-finish issues, such as misaligned interior panels, cheap-feeling materials, or premature wear on premium surfaces like leather.
• Persistent squeaks and rattles: Customers have reported bothersome squeaking sounds from interior components, which can be particularly frustrating in a high-end vehicle.
• Chassis and suspension errors: Drivers have received workshop warnings for chassis errors, with dealers sometimes unable to replicate or resolve the issue.

Specific recalls by brand

Porsche

• Suspension and steering failure (Cayenne, 718, 911): A recall was issued for nearly 2,500 2024 Cayenne models due to a cracked front control arm that could lead to a sudden loss of steering control. For various 2021–2024 models, including the 911 and 718 Cayman GT4 RS, a fracturing wheel bolt could cause the wheel to detach.
• Fire risk (911): Recalls were issued for various 911 models from 2020–2024 due to potential fire risk from improperly tightened wheel bolts.
• Drivetrain screws (Portofino M, F8 Spider, Roma Spider): Ferrari recalled a small number of 2023–2024 models because loose driveshaft screws could cause a loss of drive power.
• EV battery fire risk (Taycan): The Taycan has been subject to recalls for a high-voltage battery failure that could cause a fire.

Mercedes-Benz

• Brake failure: Mercedes recalled older ML, GL, and R-Class models over moisture-induced corrosion in the brake booster, which can cause reduced braking or total failure.
• Engine stalling (GLE, GLS): A software flaw could cause the transmission in some 2023–2024 GLE and GLS models to not downshift properly, leading to an engine stall.
• Structural issues: Over 90,000 vehicles from 2023 to 2025 were recalled for a structural issue that could increase the risk of injury in a crash.
• Battery fire risk (EQB, AMG models): Several EV models, including the EQB 300 and AMG GT43, were recalled for a fire risk due to faulty batteries or electrical shorts.

BMW

• Braking system malfunction: Numerous 2023–2025 models, including the X5, i5, X7, and 7 Series, were recalled for an issue with the integrated brake control module. Faulty welds could lead to a loss of power brake assist and disable the ABS.
• EV electrical and battery problems: Specific EV models like the iX and i7 have been recalled for electric drive motor software that can cause a sudden loss of power. Some models also have a battery module defect that poses a fire risk.
• Fire risk from wiring: Some 2019–2025 models have been recalled for a fire risk from improperly routed cables near the starter.
• Seatbelt malfunctions: A defect in some 2024 and 2025 models prevented the seatbelt detection system from working correctly.

Audi

• EV battery fire risk (e-tron, Q5 PHEV): Audi has issued recalls for certain 2019–2024 e-tron models due to overheating battery modules that can lead to a fire. Similarly, the Q5 PHEV was recalled for the same issue.
• Electrical problems (Q4 e-tron): A faulty on-board charger in some 2024–2025 Q4 e-tron models can cause a sudden loss of drive power.
• Oil leaks (Q5): Some 2022–2024 Q5 models were recalled because improperly tightened cylinder head cover screws could cause an oil leak and potential fire.

Jaguar Land Rover

• Overheating battery (I-Pace): The Jaguar I-Pace has been recalled for an overheating high-voltage battery.

 

[Bluesurf]

Ye Gods! How much power do you want? I know the US automotive experience is different to the UK, but the Grenadier has never struck me as slow, even when pulling 3500kg.

(To be fair, I have gone from 111bhp and 1915kg in a LR110CSW to a diesel Grenadier with 245bhp and 2815kg).

I must have enough Power to get safely on the highway entrance's. It was scary slow, especially on a ramp. 340 Hp is plenty enough. I was blown away after I picked up my truck, ordered it on line checked every box it allowed me to, including a $75.00 plastic cup ashtray. Did you know that a B58 gen 2 can get bumped up in HP to over 500 without a mod. to get to 700hp you need some simple mods.

 

[TCMColorado]

The following issues seem to be the primary cause of dissatisfaction among owners, in no particular order. If Ineos could eliminate these problems overall owner satisfaction would be greatly improved. Yes there are plenty of other issues but they are more minor and less a source of frustration for most owners.

- Front drive shaft CV failure
- HVAC inconsistency
- Power Steering Whine
- TMPS programing by dealer only
- Service reminder reset by dealer only

The TMPS and service reminder should be a simple software update, but nothing with Ineos is simple. The front drive shaft, HVAC and power steering are more complicated problems and will likely be solved only for future builds leaving the early adopters to cope the best they can.

 

[Tazzieman]

Sorry not to be rude, but you have no clue. You need a bench mark. The Grenadier engine is so sluggish its a stone.

Sluggish in what regard?
I have driven brand new 6.3L G wagens (for shits and giggles, as my dealer (not drug dealer) held potential/favoured customer events. I hate them, and that's not even considering how my Bear Grylls credibility would shrivel offroad.
But my usage scenarios are clearly very different to yours! GLWS!

 

[evomind]

I don't think it was cut for cost savings, more than likely because it was not part of the design ethos behind the Grenadier..

Personally, I think you are missing the point of the Grenadier. Sir Jim's design criteria wasn't to build another luxury SUV, it was to build a capable utility with respectable load capacity for expedition and utility service. Daily driver capable, but not focused on daily driver amenities.

There has always been the question of whether there is a large enough market for this to support the brand. Land Rover clearly didn't care about it when redesigning the Defender, and I'm sure they are selling many more Defenders than if they had gone this route. The Merc G class and the NewFender would likely be much more to your liking, but built to cater to a different market.

Just because the Grenadier is cool looking, and people buy it because of how it looks or makes them look to others, doesn't change this. When the North American Spec Defender 90's came to this county in 1994, it seemed like every other driveway along PCH in Malibu had one in it. A year later, most were gone from those driveways, and for a few years, used D90's were easy to come by for decent prices. Point is that people bought them because they were cool, but when they realized they were street legal tractors, they didn't want them anymore.

There is probably a case to be made for offering a 'tarted up' Grenadier with luxury amenities to cater to the market that buys G Wagons and the like. As long as they keep the Utility focused models, I'm fine with that, but like others I crave a more 'basic' truck, not a trendy SUV to be 'seen' in.

Heck, even the Grenadier has too much technology in it for me, but you can only get so far away from it in 2025 and still meet regulations..

EDIT: it was designed with this type of use in mind, not for impressing rich friends, or being seen on Hollywood Boulevard..

I wish they would have designed a more robust front driveshaft with same "ethos."