The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD, produced from October 2018 to April 2019, represents an early offering from the Geely-owned brand aimed at a younger, more connected demographic. Positioned as a compact sedan, the 03 was designed to blend the practicality of a traditional car with the connectivity and sharing-focused ethos of the Lynk & Co brand. This particular 1.5TD variant served as a mid-range option within the initial 03 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. It was primarily marketed in China, where it aimed to compete with established players in the compact sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 03 |
| Generation | 03 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5TD (156 Hp) |
| Start of production | October, 2018 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined NEDC) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.9 kg/Hp, 111.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.6 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| 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 | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4639 mm (182.64 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Rear track | 1597 mm (62.87 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, 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 | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD is the JLH-3G15TDC engine, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-three cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Geely’s modular engine family and features direct fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The turbocharger and intercooler work together to boost power output and improve efficiency. The engine produces 156 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 245 Nm (180.7 lb-ft) of torque between 1450 and 4000 rpm. This broad torque band is a key characteristic of the engine, providing good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. This configuration was chosen to provide a balance between driver engagement and fuel economy.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5TD variant of the Lynk & Co 03 offers a comfortable and relatively efficient driving experience. While not a performance-oriented model, the turbocharger provides adequate acceleration for typical urban and highway driving. The 6-speed manual transmission allows for a degree of driver control, but the gear ratios are tuned more for fuel efficiency than outright speed. Compared to higher-output versions of the 03, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the 1.5TD feels less powerful, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the lighter engine weight contributes to better handling and a more nimble feel. The steering is precise, and the suspension provides a good balance between comfort and stability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5TD trim of the Lynk & Co 03 typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and basic safety equipment like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The interior design was modern and minimalist, with a focus on connectivity and user-friendliness. The 03 was also notable for its shared mobility features, allowing owners to rent out their vehicles through the Lynk & Co app.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and an independent multi-link suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The car is equipped with ventilated disc brakes in the front and solid disc brakes in the rear. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The chassis is designed to provide a balance between rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall stability and handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD received mixed reviews in the Chinese market. Critics praised its modern design, comfortable interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers found the engine to be underpowered compared to competitors. Compared to other compact sedans in the same price range, the 03 offered a unique blend of style, technology, and connectivity. Its fuel economy of 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg) was competitive with other similarly equipped vehicles. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD, while a relatively short-lived variant, played an important role in establishing the Lynk & Co brand in the Chinese market. It demonstrated the brand’s commitment to innovation and connectivity. In the used car market, the 03 1.5TD remains a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a stylish and fuel-efficient compact sedan. The JLH-3G15TDC engine has proven to be reasonably reliable, with proper maintenance. As Lynk & Co continues to expand its lineup and global presence, the 03 1.5TD will be remembered as one of the brand’s early and defining models.
