The new issue of 4x4 magazine is dominated by the big story of the year, nay the decade – the arrival of the Ineos Grenadier.

The much vaunted spiritual successor to the old Defender has been developed in the public eye, and since it was first announced Land Rover has launched an actual new Defender to great acclaim. For a new start-up business, even one headed by Britain’s richest man, it’s a huge challenge.

Now is when we get to see how well they’ve risen to it. Our impressions of the Grenadier, after a two-day on and off-road test in the Scottish Highlands, leads this issue. Let’s just say it reminds us of the old Defender in more ways than one…

Also in this issue, you’ll find our annual report on the Dakar rally – and, talking of Dakar, the tale of an overland adventure through western Africa aboard an old Land Rover bought for less than a grand.

We’ve also got a new feature this month, titled ‘4x4 of the Best’. It’s a compilation of four modified vehicles, all the same only different.

This month, we’re kicking off with the Suzuki Jimny – from mild(ish) to (very) wild…

We’ve tested the new Ultimate Plus version of the SsangYong Rexton in this issue too – a welcome return to form for the perennial value champion – and brought you stories of a 1000bhp expedition vehicle and an ex-Police Discovery growing old disgracefully. Plus of course all the usual news and reviews, the latest from the workshop… oh, and did we mention the Ineos Grenadier?