The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD, produced from October 2018 to April 2019, represents an early offering from the Geely-owned Swedish-Chinese automotive brand. Positioned as a compact sedan, the 03 aimed to blend Scandinavian design with modern technology and a focus on connectivity. This particular variant, equipped with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 156 horsepower and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), served as a mid-range option within the initial 03 lineup, offering a balance between performance and fuel efficiency. The 03 is built upon the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) jointly developed by Volvo and Geely, also underpinning the Volvo XC40. It was primarily marketed in China, representing Lynk & Co’s initial foray into the sedan segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 03 |
| Generation | 03 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5TD (156 Hp) DCT |
| 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) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | China V |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.3 kg/Hp, 107.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 168.5 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 | 1454 kg (3205.52 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 |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 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 inline three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine’s design prioritizes efficiency and responsiveness, leveraging turbocharging to overcome the inherent limitations of a smaller displacement engine. The engine employs a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) provides quick and smooth gear changes, contributing to both acceleration and fuel economy. The DCT’s programming is tuned for a balance between comfort and sportiness, offering both automatic and manual shifting modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 156 horsepower and 180.7 lb.-ft. of torque delivered by the 1.5TD powertrain provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 8.1 seconds, making it competitive within its class. The DCT transmission contributes to a responsive driving experience, with minimal torque interruption during gear changes. Compared to higher-output versions of the 03, such as those equipped with the 2.0-liter engine, the 1.5TD offers a more fuel-efficient and comfortable ride, albeit with slightly less spirited acceleration. The gear ratios are optimized for both city driving and highway cruising, providing sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers. The front-wheel-drive configuration offers predictable handling, although it may exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5TD variant of the Lynk & Co 03 typically came standard with features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, and a suite of safety features including ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. Interior upholstery consisted of cloth or leatherette, depending on optional packages. Higher trim levels offered upgrades such as leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The dashboard layout is minimalist and modern, reflecting the Scandinavian design philosophy of the brand. Optional extras included premium audio systems and various cosmetic enhancements.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 03 utilizes an independent suspension system at all four corners, with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. 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. The electric power steering system offers light and precise steering feel. The 03’s chassis is designed to balance ride comfort with handling agility, making it suitable for both urban commutes and longer journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD was generally well-received in the Chinese market, praised for its stylish design, modern technology, and competitive pricing. Critics noted the engine’s responsiveness and the smooth operation of the DCT transmission. Fuel economy was also a strong point, with the 1.5TD offering significantly better mileage than the higher-output 2.0-liter variants. Compared to rivals such as the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series (which were also available in China), the 03 offered a unique blend of Scandinavian design and Chinese manufacturing, often at a more affordable price point. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials, while well-assembled, did not quite match the premium feel of its European competitors.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5TD, while a relatively short-lived variant, played a crucial role in establishing the brand’s presence in the Chinese market. The JLH-3G15TDC engine has proven to be a reliable and efficient powerplant, and the 7-speed DCT transmission has also demonstrated good durability. In the used car market, these models are generally sought after for their fuel efficiency and modern features. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, early indications suggest that the powertrain is capable of providing years of trouble-free service with proper maintenance. The 03 1.5TD represents an interesting example of a modern compact sedan that aimed to disrupt the established order in the Chinese automotive market.
