The Lynk & Co 02 1.5TD, produced from June 2018 to April 2019, represents a unique entry in the compact crossover segment. Positioned as a more style-focused and technologically advanced offering from the Geely-owned Lynk & Co brand, the 02 aimed to appeal to a younger, connected demographic. Built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) shared with Volvo, the 02 blended Scandinavian design principles with a distinctly urban aesthetic. This particular 1.5TD variant, producing 156 horsepower, served as a mid-range option within the 02 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was primarily marketed in China, where Lynk & Co established its initial foothold, and later in select European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 02 |
| Generation | 02 I |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5TD (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 105.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 245 Nm @ 1450-4000 rpm (180.7 lb.-ft. @ 1450-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-3G15TDC |
| Engine displacement | 1477 cm3 (90.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93.2 mm (3.67 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1426 kg (3143.79 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 330 l (11.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 842 l (29.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4448 mm (175.12 in.) |
| Width | 1890 mm (74.41 in.) |
| Height | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm (106.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1616 mm (63.62 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Tires size | 215/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Lynk & Co 02 1.5TD is the JLH-3G15TDC, a 1.5-liter inline-three cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine is part of Geely’s modular engine family and utilizes direct fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, helps to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque, making it suitable for urban driving conditions. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available for this variant. It features relatively short gear ratios, designed to maximize acceleration and responsiveness. The engine management system is tuned for a balance between performance and fuel economy, adhering to China V emission standards.
Driving Characteristics
The 156 hp 1.5TD powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.5 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 127.38 mph. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The turbocharger does exhibit some lag at lower RPMs, but once spooled up, it delivers a noticeable surge of power. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the relatively short gear ratios contribute to a more engaging driving experience compared to automatic transmissions. Compared to higher-output variants (which were not widely available), the 1.5TD prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Lynk & Co 02 1.5TD came standard with a comprehensive suite of features, reflecting the brand’s focus on technology and connectivity. Standard equipment included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery typically consisted of cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded interior trim materials. The exterior styling was characterized by a distinctive split headlight design and a bold grille.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 02 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard. The 02’s chassis is tuned for a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing ride quality over sporty dynamics. The relatively lightweight construction (1426 kg) contributes to its agility.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 02 1.5TD received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered at times, particularly when fully loaded. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 02 achieving around 40.6 US mpg in combined driving. Compared to other compact crossovers in the Chinese market, the 02 offered a more premium feel and a more technologically advanced feature set. Its direct competitors included models from brands like Geely, Changan, and Chery.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 02 1.5TD, while only produced for a relatively short period, established Lynk & Co as a credible player in the compact crossover segment. The JLH-3G15TDC engine has proven to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and examples of the 02 continue to appear on the used car market. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, early reports suggest that the powertrain is generally robust. The 02’s innovative business model, which included online sales and subscription services, also helped to pave the way for new approaches to automotive retail.
