Storyteller Overland has built a reputation for high-end, off-road-ready RVs, typically constructed from Sprinter vans, Ram pickups, or Kenworth trucks. Its newest offering, the Grand Bohemian, swaps those platforms for the Ineos Grenadier, a rugged SUV inspired by the Land Rover Defender. At $198,999, it is the company’s smallest model yet, designed to sleep, transport, and feed up to three people.
The vehicle’s boxy shape and off-road capability make it a natural fit for overlanding. The prototype tested used an older chassis with the model’s quirky, non-self-centering steering, but production versions will use the updated 2026 Grenadier, which fixes that issue.
From SUV to Tiny Camper
Storyteller removes the rear seats to create living space, replacing them with a full-width storage compartment topped by a cushion that forms part of an L-shaped couch.
Beneath the floor and cabinetry lie the essentials: a 5.4-kWh lithium-ion battery, and a 200-watt inverter. A 400-watt solar panel on the roof or the engine’s alternator can recharge the battery, with an hour of driving enough to top it off. Shore power is available via a 30-amp, 110-volt connection, but the system draws little power.
The galley includes a 21-quart electric refrigerator in a deep drawer, a sink, and minimal counter space. To stand upright inside, the pop-up rooftop tent must be deployed, requiring unclipping latches and a forceful shove to engage the gas struts. Lowering it back down is equally labor-intensive.
Related: Ford unveils 12 EV commandments embracing failure
Cooking, Cleaning, and Other Necessities
Cooking happens outside. A swing-out awning covers the driver’s side and rear, shielding the single-burner induction cooker from the elements. A wooden prep tray swings down from the galley cabinet, while a metal tray with a slide-out cutting board drops from the back door. The setup functions, though space is limited.
The composting toilet is basic: a plastic box with seats, bags, and chemical neutralizers. It works but lacks refinement. The reviewer chose other arrangements.
Sleeping requires two steps. The forward roof panel lowers to form the primary bed, with an option to drop the aft panel for extra room. Climbing in and out demands care—the strap for the aft panel can trap occupants if it falls, posing a safety risk.
The tent’s three large windows provide excellent views, though the thin mattress may leave some wanting more cushioning. A third bed slides out from under the couch, but those in the tent cannot exit without stepping on the person below.
Off the Grid, With Limits
A test trip to a BLM camping site near Mojave put the Grand Bohemian’s features to use. Storyteller added an Evictus prerunner suspension for a smoother ride, along with larger wheels, off-road tires, a bumper guard, winch, and air compressor. The setup improves stability, though the “EVICT US” decal on the rear window proved distracting.
Related: Honda Partners Offer Cool Aftermarket Parts with No Hassle
Bright yellow exterior lights illuminated the campsite, where the reviewer cooked smashburgers on the induction burner. The gasoline-fired furnace and hot water heater performed well, but the lack of interior space made simple tasks difficult. Accessing the fridge required shuffling to the front of the couch; doing dishes meant moving all clothing to the front seat or bed.
Storage is limited. The fuel tanks, combined with the Grenadier’s fuel efficiency, restrict off-grid duration. The furnace and hot water heater consume a gallon of gas every eight hours, further limiting independence.
The LED interior lights switch between white and red modes to preserve night vision. With the tent’s windows open, the stargazing was exceptional, and the wind’s sway proved surprisingly calming.
Practicality Considerations
The Grand Bohemian fits many functions into a compact design. It handles cooking, cleaning, sleeping, and even outdoor hot showers. However, the tight interior turns every task into a challenge. At nearly $200,000, the composting toilet—a plastic bucket with upgrades—feels underwhelming.
For serious overlanders, a van-based camper may offer more space and fewer frustrations for the same cost. The Grand Bohemian shows an SUV can work as a tiny camper, but it also highlights the trade-offs of traveling light.
Leave a Reply