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| 2012 Ssangyong Chairman W |
The flagship of Ssangyong known as the Chairman W is been here for only three years since its inception on February 2008 but the Mahindra-owned Korean car company seems to be ready on the "offensive" side after the launch of the Classy Utility Vehicle known as Korando C, launched since late February 2011, and the executive medium-sized Chairman H New Classic, launched since May 2011. For the 2012 model year, the Ssangyong Chairman W received its first minor change but this latest minor change seems to be somewhat familiar...
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| 2012 Ssangyong Chairman W |
As we know it, the Korean-made Ssangyong Chairman W is somewhat a Korean clone of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221) but for the latest minor change, this is somewhat puzzling because it has the headlight of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221), the grille of the Hyundai Equus VI, and the rear view of the BMW 5-Series (F10) that makes sense that combining the elements of three luxury premium sedans into one unorthodox packaging.
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| 2012 Ssangyong Chairman W interior |
The premium interior of the Ssangyong Chairman W hasn't changed but overall, the premium comfort of this Korean premium sedan looks somewhat fascinating. With the Harman Kardon audio system, you can experience perfect sound quality from listening to music and watching movies on the go. You would be surprised that this is one superior threat to the fifth generation Toyota Crown Majesta and Hyundai Equus VI as if your judgment over Asian premium sedans is just a general classification and it can be an expected feat.
The CW600 variant offers the XGi3200 (3.2L 6-cylinder DOHC) engine that produces 225PS/6,600rpm of power while the CW700 variant offers the XGi3600 (3.6L 6-cylinder DOHC) engine that produces 250PS/6,600rpm of power output. The flagship V8 5000 variant offers none other than the powerful XGi5000 (5.0L V8 Dual Spark) engine that produces a majestic 306PS/5,600rpm of power output. Most are equipped with the E-Tronic Benz 7-speed automatic transmission with Manual Mode for smoother shifting but less fun for the hardcore owner. Some variants may get the 4-TRONIC (4WD) system to tackle various roads no matter what it takes. It even comes with 10 airbags, Intelligent Electronic Control Suspension, and Active Cruise Control.
The new Ssangyong Chairman W is available in four exterior colors; Classic Black, Diamond Silver, Grand White, and Sapphire Black.
My comment:
After launching the Korando C and the Chairman H minor change, Ssangyong's offensive plan continues with the launch of the Chairman W minor change. Although it has the headlamps of the S-Class, the grille of the Equus VI, and the rear view of the 5-series, it's good to know that this car is made in Korea, not made in China because of its reputation of cloning cars, you know what I'm saying? It wasn't easy being a flagship sedan that competes with the Hyundai Equus VI and the Toyota Crown Majesta but the new Chairman W is the Korean flagship you may want to consider being the first Korean full-size premium sedan that offered the 5.0L V8 engine. We are getting anxious to get a hold of its charismatic beauty and its excessive simplicity but the new Chairman W is something to be considered refined and valiant.
Photo: Ssangyong Motor Company
