The automotive industry is currently undergoing significant changes with a strong focus on electrification and software-defined vehicles (SDV). This shift is evident in the increasing use of smooth touch screens and the transition from active driving to passengers in self-driving cars, where vehicles are becoming more like giant smartphones. In stark contrast to this trend is the Ineos Grenadier, a five-seater wagon that insists its driver remains actively engaged in the driving experience by encouraging them to press buttons and turn knobs, emphasizing that they are the true masters of this machine.

The Ineos Grenadier embodies the essence of a no-nonsense four-wheel drive vehicle, born from the desire of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO of Ineos, after Land Rover ceased production of the Defender in 2016. Fueled by nostalgia and practicality, he envisioned a car suited for farmers and explorers that could be easily operated with gloved hands and withstand the elements. This vision culminated in a vehicle that prioritizes function over form, positioning itself as a practical choice in an era dominated by digital interfaces.

The Grenadier's utilitarian design and analog controls mark a departure from current automotive trends. With no digital touch menus and large physical buttons that can be used even with gloves, the vehicle offers a refreshing honesty in terms of functionality. As the driver starts the engine, the presence of a BMW six-cylinder engine highlights the balance between robust mechanical engineering and a straightforward driving experience, potentially inviting nostalgia for a time when driving was less about technology and more about the act itself.