SsangYong Chairman CM600S: 5 Reasons It’s A Luxury Bargain

The SsangYong Chairman CM600S stands out as a bold attempt by the South Korean automaker to crack the luxury sedan market. Launched around 2006, this full-size executive car drew heavily from Mercedes-Benz engineering, delivering high-end features and performance at a fraction of European rivals’ costs. With its elongated body, powerful inline-six engine, and array of comfort-oriented tech, it targeted buyers seeking opulence without the premium price tag.

Design and Exterior Presence

Measuring 5135 mm in length, 1825 mm in width, and 1465 mm in height, the Chairman CM600S commands road presence akin to established luxury barges. Its styling cues echo the Mercedes-Benz W140 S-Class era, with a long hood, prominent grille, and sleek lines that prioritize elegance over aggression. The bodywork, tailored for the Asian market, features subtle curves and chrome accents that enhance its upscale appeal without ostentation.

• Dimensions breakdown: Ideal for chauffeur-driven duties or long-haul cruising.
• Aerodynamics: Estimated drag coefficient of 0.32 aids efficiency on highways.
• Wheelbase: Provides exceptional rear legroom, surpassing many contemporaries.

This generous footprint translates to a 80-liter fuel tank, supporting extended journeys, while the sedan’s low stance hints at composed highway manners.

Powertrain and Performance Capabilities

At the heart lies a 3.2-liter inline-six engine, producing 162 kW (220 PS / 217 hp) at 6000 rpm and 304-314 Nm of torque peaking around 4600 rpm. Sourced from Mercedes-Benz and built under license, this DOHC unit with multi-point fuel injection and a 3-way catalyst delivers smooth, refined power delivery.

Paired exclusively with a 5-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels, the CM600S achieves respectable acceleration: estimated 0-100 km/h in 8.4 seconds, 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds, and a quarter-mile in 16.2 seconds. Top speed exceeds 200 km/h, though real-world limits are governed by its luxury focus rather than sportiness.

Despite a kerb weight of around 1810 kg, the engine propels the sedan with authority, remaining composed up to redline. It’s not a track weapon, but for overtaking or merging, it proves adequate.

Chassis, Suspension, and Driving Dynamics

The underpinnings borrow from Mercedes’ W124 E-Class and W140 S-Class platforms, modified for SsangYong’s vision. Front suspension uses MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a subframe-mounted multi-link setup with electronic damper control. Brakes feature ventilated front discs and solid rears, providing confident stopping power.

Handling prioritizes comfort over agility. Steering is light and somewhat remote, fitting its limousine role, but body roll is evident in corners, with pronounced lean under load. Ride quality absorbs bumps well on highways, though smaller imperfections intrude more than in pricier rivals. It’s stable at speed, ideal for motorway cruising, but feels dated in twisty sections.

“The Chairman feels a bit dated to drive, but the engine gets up and going despite the weight.”

Interior Luxury and Comfort Features

Step inside, and the cabin impresses with its vastness. Rear passengers enjoy limo-like legroom and width, configured for two in comfort rather than three. Front seats offer eight-way power adjustment with memory, heating for all five seats, and leather upholstery embossed with the ‘C’ logo.

Storage is limited, but amenities abound: dual-zone climate control, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, cruise control, steering-wheel audio controls, and a 10-speaker premium sound system. Rear parking sensors aid maneuvering the long body.

• Standout luxuries: Seat warmers throughout, power adjustments, and a swingaway brake pedal for safety.
• Dashboard: Traditional layout with backlit gauges, though button-heavy.
• Build quality: Solid, with Mercedes-sourced components ensuring durability.

In higher trims like the CM600L variant, extras like ventilated seats, folding tables, and powered blinds elevate it further, though the CM600S focuses on core executive needs.

Safety and Reliability Outlook

Safety equipment includes front and side airbags, stability control, traction control, and the aforementioned brake pedal design. While not crash-tested by modern standards like ANCAP, the Mercedes platform suggests inherent structural robustness.

Reliability benefits from proven German mechanicals, with the licensed engine known for longevity. SsangYong’s build aimed for value retention, though brand unfamiliarity impacted sales.

Market Positioning and Value Proposition

Priced around $56,990 in markets like Australia (equivalent to base Ford Fairlane or Holden Statesman), the CM600S undercut true luxury brands while matching features. No options lists kept it simple, emphasizing standard spec over customization.

Today, used examples fetch bargain prices—around $8,000-$13,000—appealing to enthusiasts seeking Mercedes refinement on a budget. Rarity (e.g., only 100 imported to Australia) adds collectible allure.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Who Should Consider the Chairman CM600S?

Ideal for budget-conscious executives, classic car fans, or those wanting S-Class vibes affordably. It’s a road-tripper’s dream for comfort, less so for spirited drives. Maintenance is straightforward with Mercedes parts availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Verdict on the CM600S Legacy

The SsangYong Chairman CM600S embodies ambitious engineering, fusing Korean manufacturing with German heritage. While brand perception hindered its success, its specs, space, and value endure. For those undeterred by its age, it offers unparalleled luxury per dollar— a true underdog in automotive history.