The Ineos Quartermaster is a no-nonsense, heavy-duty pick-up designed for those who prioritize capability over subtlety. Built on a robust ladder chassis and featuring solid axles from Carraro, this vehicle doesn’t shy away from tough work or demanding terrain. The Quartermaster is noticeably larger than most competitors, stretching over 5.4 meters in length – longer even than a BMW X7.
Built to Haul, Built to Last
The bed itself is large enough to accommodate a standard Euro pallet, with a rear gate capable of supporting up to 225kg when open. Payload capacity varies between the petrol and diesel models, with the diesel offering a maximum of 760kg. However, even the lighter petrol variant isn’t dainty: expect a substantial weight of over 2.7 tons, making it considerably heavier than a Toyota Hilux by around 650kg. This weight is felt on the road, but it’s a trade-off for uncompromising durability.
Mechanical Muscle
Under the hood, the Quartermaster offers a choice between a BMW-sourced six-cylinder petrol or diesel engine. The diesel, with 246bhp and 407lb-ft of torque, delivers ample pulling power from low revs. Both engines pair with an eight-speed automatic and a locking center differential. For serious off-road use, the optional Rough Pack adds locking differentials to the axles – though it’s unavailable on the more luxurious Black Edition, geared towards urban drivers.
Refined, But Still Raw
Ineos has addressed initial criticism by refining the recirculating-ball steering, improving precision and reducing the excessive turning circle. The interior retains the Grenadier’s utilitarian design, with durable materials and an array of switchgear for off-road accessories, including pre-wired toggles for light bars and auxiliary power. The infotainment system isn’t cutting-edge, but it’s functional, featuring both touch controls and a rotary dial.
The seats are comfortable even on long drives, though the upright driving position may not suit everyone. The load bed is competitive in length, though some rivals offer higher payloads.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The diesel Quartermaster feels adequately brisk despite its power-to-weight ratio of 90bhp per tonne. Don’t expect sports car acceleration – 0-62mph takes around 10.1 seconds – but the engine delivers enough grunt for real-world tasks. The petrol variant offers smoother power delivery but sacrifices fuel economy. Real-world figures suggest the diesel can achieve between 21.5mpg and 25.4mpg, giving a range of over 400 miles per tank.
Off-Road Credentials
The Quartermaster excels off-road, with excellent axle articulation and generous ground clearance (264mm). However, the increased length slightly reduces the breakover and departure angles compared to the station wagon model. The Black Edition lacks the more aggressive tires and locking differentials found on other trims.
Steering has been improved, with a quicker ratio that provides better response on-road without sacrificing off-road capability.
A Niche Vehicle
The Quartermaster isn’t a cheap option. Starting at over £64,000, it costs more than many mainstream pick-ups. But it offers a unique combination of ruggedness, durability, and a touch of British eccentricity. If you need a vehicle that can handle almost anything and don’t mind the size or price tag, the Ineos Quartermaster is hard to beat.
In short, the Quartermaster is a bold statement in a market of increasingly refined pick-ups. It prioritizes capability and durability over all else, making it ideal for those who demand a vehicle that can truly take a beating.
