In case you haven’t heard, we’re running the 2024 Alcan 5000 Rally in an INEOS Grenadier. We just picked the French-made 4×4 this weekend. So where’d we take the INEOS Grenadier (in Eldoret Blue) and what’d we do with it?

While Mercedes has driven pretty much every iteration of the UK-based INEOS Grenadier from early-stage prototype to production, I had never been behind the wheel of a moving Grenadier. That all changed this weekend. So while it wasn’t her first drive, it most certainly was mine.

We spent some quality time with the 4×4 learning how to use its buttons, infotainment, and mechanical components. Then we set out on a Sunday drive so I could see how it drove on the pavement. This will be super important since the 2024 Alcan 5000 Rally is over 5,000 miles long. Good news: the factory Recaro seats are plenty comfortable.

We went about 30 miles or so and I got a great initial feeling for the SUV. It’s very truck-like, has a comfortable but utilitarian interior, and is built like a tank in all the right ways.

When we got home, we test-fit some accessories for the Rhino Rack Pioneer Platform rack, which is INEOS’ official rack partner. We have a few more minor things to do to the SUV before we depart, but the start line is fast approaching.

Stay tuned for more INEOS Grenadier and more Alcan 5000 coverage. It’s Anchorage or bust starting February 21.