The Lynk & Co 01, specifically the 2.0TD T4 Evo variant introduced with the 2020 facelift, represents a unique entry in the compact SUV segment. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the 01 lineup, this model combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering a balance of performance and efficiency. Production of this configuration ran from December 2020 to August 2022. The 01, built upon the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) jointly developed by Volvo and Geely (Lynk & Co’s parent company), aimed to disrupt the traditional automotive ownership model with its subscription-based services and connected car features, primarily targeting a younger, tech-savvy demographic. While initially focused on the European and Chinese markets, the 01’s global ambitions were evident in its design and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 01 |
| Generation | 01 (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0TD T4 Evo (218 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | December, 2020 |
| End of production | August, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg, 38.2 UK mpg, 13.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| 0-100 km/h | 35 m |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 190.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 218 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 325 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm (239.71 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-4G20TDJ |
| Engine displacement | 1969 cm3 (120.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| 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 | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2085 kg (4596.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 375 kg (826.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 509 l (17.98 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1397 l (49.33 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 54 l (14.27 US gal | 11.88 UK gal) |
| Length | 4549 mm (179.09 in.) |
| Width | 1860 mm (73.23 in.) |
| Height | 1689 mm (66.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2734 mm (107.64 in.) |
| Front track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 213 mm (8.39 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 18° |
| Departure angle | 23.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2.0TD T4 Evo is the JLH-4G20TDJ engine, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder. This engine is a product of Geely’s ongoing development efforts, building upon Volvo’s engine technology. It features direct fuel injection, a sophisticated turbocharging system, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger and intercooler work in tandem to increase air density, boosting power output and efficiency. The engine’s control unit (ECU) manages fuel delivery and ignition timing for optimal performance. Paired with this engine is an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is designed to balance responsiveness with fuel economy, offering both automatic and manual shift modes. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output across a wide range of speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 218 horsepower and 325 Nm (239.71 lb.-ft.) of torque delivered by the 2.0TD T4 Evo provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is brisk, though not particularly sporty, with a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) time around 7.5-8.0 seconds. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to a comfortable driving experience, with smooth shifts and a willingness to downshift when needed. Compared to the more powerful variants of the 01, this version prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright speed. The automatic transmission, while convenient, doesn’t offer the same level of driver engagement as the available manual transmission. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0TD T4 Evo trim typically included standard features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was generally a combination of cloth and leatherette, with options for full leather available. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and heated/ventilated front seats. The overall interior design emphasized Scandinavian minimalism, with a clean and uncluttered layout.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 01 utilizes an independent suspension setup at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. 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, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) are standard features, enhancing safety and control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0TD T4 Evo variant of the Lynk & Co 01 received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and advanced technology. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the excitement of the more powerful options. Fuel economy was a strong point, with the 01 achieving around 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) in combined driving. Compared to other compact SUVs in its class, the 01 offered a unique blend of Scandinavian design, Chinese manufacturing, and innovative ownership models. Its subscription-based services and connected car features set it apart from traditional competitors.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 01, including the 2.0TD T4 Evo variant, has established itself as a distinctive player in the compact SUV market. While its long-term reliability is still being assessed, the engine and transmission combination has proven to be generally robust. On the used car market, these models are becoming increasingly popular, attracting buyers who appreciate their unique styling, technology, and value proposition. The 01’s innovative approach to automotive ownership and its focus on connectivity have paved the way for future developments in the industry.
