Ssangyong Chairman W (W200). 2008 to date (prod. n/a). 4-door sedan, 4-door LWB sedan. F/R, F/A, 3199, 3598 cm³ (6 cyl. DOHC), 4966 cm³ (V8 DOHC). W in name, distinguishing it from previous Chairman, denoted World, ironic since it was sold principally in Korea. New Chairman featured Korea’s first V8 engine (of Mercedes-Benz design) mated to seven-speed automatic, and 10 airbags, a record at the time for a Korean car. Also a first was the availability of an all-wheel-drive version (again, from Mercedes—namely its 4Matic transmission)—again unprecedented for a luxury Korean car. Adjustable ride height. Better appointed interior, including touch-screen interface and 40 Gbyte hard drive. Electronic brake replaced the traditional Mercedes-Benz foot-brake. Only 3·6 and V8 at launch; 3·2 added in 2009. More comfortable ride than previous Chairman, and more refined, though still some quality niggles and wind noise.

Manufacturing location: Korea

Marque: Ssangyong | Model: Ssangyong Chairman | Predecessor: Ssangyong Chairman (1997–)