SsangYong Istana I gallery (1995–2003)

The full-size SsangYong Istana minivan was developed in cooperation with Mercedes-Benz.

The full-size SsangYong Istana minivan and minibus was developed based on licensed Mercedes-Benz technologies and manufactured in South Korea. The vehicle was offered in various body lengths accommodating from 9 to 15 passengers, as well as a cargo van configuration. The engine lineup included reliable licensed Mercedes powerplants: a gasoline unit and efficient inline-five diesel engines mated to a manual transmission. The model featured a front-engine layout with front-wheel drive and an exceptionally spacious cabin. It was exported under the Mercedes-Benz MB100/MB140 names, and between 1998 and 2002 it was also produced as the Daewoo Istana. Production later moved to China where it continued under local brands.