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SsangYong Chairman: H and W versions, engines and what to check
The SsangYong Chairman is a luxurious full-size sedan from the South Korean manufacturer SsangYong, based on Mercedes-Benz E-Class technology. In this article, we review the Chairman H and W versions, engines, and what to check when buying a used Chairman in Lithuania.
The Chairman in brief
The Chairman was SsangYong's flagship model—a large sedan with a spacious interior that prioritises rear passengers. Its technology is based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, so the chassis and engines are known for their smoothness and comfort.
The primary market was Korea, where the Chairman was often used as a representative or chauffeur-driven car. In Lithuania, it's quite rare and usually arrives in single units.
Chairman H and Chairman W
The Chairman H is the standard-length sedan, while the Chairman W is a longer, even more luxurious version with more space for rear passengers. Both share the same technical concept but differ in size and equipment.
There was also an older generation of the Chairman, based on an earlier Mercedes-Benz E-Class, but the newer H and W versions are more modern and better equipped. Check the exact production years and engine versions according to the specific car's documents.
Engines and transmissions
The Chairman's engines are six-cylinder petrol units, around 3.2 and 3.6 litres in capacity, developed based on Mercedes-Benz technology. They offer ample power for smooth driving, but fuel consumption is high.
Gearbox — automatic, often of 'Mercedes-Benz' origin. Since engine and gearbox versions vary by year, check the exact specifications in the documents.
What to check when buying a used Chairman
Since the Chairman is a rare car, first find out where you can get parts and who can service it. Some parts fit the 'Mercedes-Benz' E-Class, but not all, so this needs to be checked in each case.
Test the gearbox and suspension, as these are luxurious, heavy cars with more complex technology. Check the electronics: seat adjustments, air conditioning, control screens, and other functions.
Since the cars are imported from other countries, check the documents, mileage, and whether all the equipment meets European standards.
Trim levels
Trim level names in the Korean market are determined by the engine and equipment; we list the most commonly encountered.
Chairman H 500S
Chairman HLower trim level.
- Often — a six-cylinder petrol engine
- Often — leather interior
- Often — comfortable rear seats
Chairman H 600S
Chairman HHigher trim level.
- Often — a six-cylinder petrol engine
- Often — more electrical equipment
- Often — higher-class upholstery
Chairman W CW700
Chairman WThe longest, most luxurious version.
- Often — a six-cylinder petrol engine
- More rear passenger space
- Often — luxurious interior trim
Chairman versions compared
| H 500S | H 600S | W CW700 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | Comfort for less money | Better-equipped car | Maximum luxury |
| Alloy wheels (usually) | Light alloy | Light alloy | Light alloy |
| Engine | Around 3.2–3.6 litres, six cylinders | Around 3.2–3.6 litres, six cylinders | Around 3.2–3.6 litres, six cylinders |
| Interior | Comfortable | Better equipped | Most luxurious |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€€ |
The standard-length H version is more suitable for most buyers, while the W is for those who prioritise rear-seat comfort. Before buying, thoroughly check the availability of parts.
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable interior
- Technology is based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- Unique, rare offering
- Luxurious features
Cons
- Rare in Lithuania, parts and servicing can be challenging
- High fuel consumption
- More complex electronics
Frequently asked questions
Is the Chairman the same as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class?
No. The Chairman is based on the Mercedes-Benz E-Class platform, but it is a separate SsangYong model with its own body, trim, and features.
What's the difference between the Chairman H and W?
The H is the standard-length sedan, while the W is a longer, more luxurious version with more rear passenger space.
Is the Chairman available in Europe?
Its main market was Korea, so you'll find only a few imported cars in Lithuania. Before buying, check the registration, parts availability, and service options.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
