The Lynk & Co 03 1.5 T3 Plug-in Hybrid, produced from September 2019 to November 2021, represents a significant entry into the burgeoning plug-in hybrid market. Positioned as a sporty and technologically advanced sedan, the 03 aimed to appeal to a younger demographic seeking both efficiency and performance. It’s built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform, jointly developed by Volvo and Geely – Lynk & Co’s parent company. This model was primarily targeted at the Chinese market, where demand for new energy vehicles was rapidly increasing, but also saw limited export sales. The 1.5 T3 variant occupied a mid-range position within the 03 lineup, offering a balance between the base models and the higher-performance options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lynk & Co |
| Model | 03 |
| Generation | 03 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 T3 (262 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid DCTH |
| Start of production | September, 2019 |
| End of production | November, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 1.6 l/100 km (147 US mpg, 176.6 UK mpg, 62.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 6.9 sec |
| Emission standard | China VI |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 156 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 157.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 9.4 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides (Li-NMC) |
| All-electric range (NEDC) | 51 km (31.69 mi) |
| Max speed (electric) | 120 km/h (74.56 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 82 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 262 Hp |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 121.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 265 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (195.45 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | JLH-3G15TD |
| 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 | 1680-1730 kg (3703.77 – 3814 lbs.) |
| Length | 4657 mm (183.35 in.) |
| Width | 1840 mm (72.44 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCTH |
| 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 | 225/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5 T3 utilizes a sophisticated plug-in hybrid powertrain. The core of the system is the JLH-3G15TD, a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 180 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. Direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with intercooler contribute to its efficiency and power output. Integrated with the engine is an 82 horsepower electric motor, powered by a 9.4 kWh lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt-oxide (Li-NMC) battery pack. The combined system output reaches 262 horsepower. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), specifically a DCTH unit optimized for hybrid applications. This transmission provides quick and smooth gear changes, enhancing both performance and fuel economy. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain and a start/stop system to further reduce emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 03 1.5 T3 offers a surprisingly engaging driving experience. The electric motor provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration, especially in urban environments. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 6.9 seconds. In hybrid mode, the powertrain seamlessly switches between electric and gasoline power, optimizing for efficiency or performance as needed. The DCT transmission contributes to responsive shifts, although some drivers have noted occasional hesitation at low speeds. Compared to the more powerful variants of the 03, the 1.5 T3 prioritizes fuel economy and a smoother ride. While it doesn’t offer the same outright performance as the higher-horsepower models, it provides ample power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The steering is precise, and the suspension offers a good balance between comfort and handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 T3 trim typically included standard features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a digital instrument cluster, 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 leatherette and fabric. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded leather seats. The exterior styling featured distinctive Lynk & Co design cues, including a split headlight design and a prominent grille.
Chassis & Braking
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5 T3 utilizes an independent suspension setup at both the front and rear. The front suspension employs a McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). The chassis is designed to balance weight distribution and rigidity, contributing to the car’s overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5 T3 was generally well-received by critics in the Chinese market. It was praised for its stylish design, advanced technology, and efficient powertrain. Fuel economy was a significant selling point, with the plug-in hybrid system allowing for substantial electric-only range. Compared to other plug-in hybrid sedans in its class, the 03 offered a competitive combination of performance, features, and price. However, some reviewers noted that the interior materials could be improved. Compared to the higher-output 03 variants, the 1.5 T3 offered a more affordable entry point into the Lynk & Co brand, appealing to a broader range of buyers.
Legacy
The Lynk & Co 03 1.5 T3 represents an important step in the development of plug-in hybrid technology. While its long-term reliability is still being assessed, the powertrain components are generally considered robust. The use of a turbocharged three-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor demonstrates a commitment to efficiency and reduced emissions. On the used car market, the 03 1.5 T3 remains a relatively popular choice, particularly among buyers seeking a stylish and technologically advanced plug-in hybrid sedan. Its combination of performance, fuel economy, and features continues to make it a compelling option in its segment.
