Production version of Lynk & Co 03 sedan introduced

Lynk & Co, a carmaker founded just two years ago, is introducing its third production model: the Lynk & Co 03 sedan. This new model – derived from a concept first unveiled in April 2017 at the Auto Shanghai – marks the Chinese brand’s very first sedan.

When the Chinese carmaker unveiled the Lynk & Co 03 Concept at the 2017 Auto Shanghai, it was easily unmistakable that this sedan concept featured the design cues – both on the front and on the rear ends – of the Lynk & Co 01 and 02 sports utility vehicle. It looked like the 01 and the 02 but in a more aggressive and sportier package.

After more than a year, Lynk & Co – a Chinese-Swedish auto brand owned by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group that also owns Volvo -- is introducing the 03 sedan, which is essentially the production version of the 03 Concept shown in Shanghai in 2017. On a closer look, it seems that the Chinese carmaker didn’t bother to change or revise the design of the show car, especially since both the 03 production version and the 03 Concept basically look the same.

For instance, the Lynk & Co 03 sedan also features the sharp crease running along its waistline as well as the silver trim flowing on top of the window. Profile of the new 03 likewise reveals a set of five twin-spoke alloy wheels as well as sporty side skirts. Its front end is defined by split-level headlights with separate daytime running lights, while the rear end is marked by boomerang-like LED lights, a pronounced lip spoiler as well as twin-exit exhausts. The rear end also features a black strip with Lynk & Co badging.

Likewise, the overall shape and dimensions of the 03 Concept made it way to the Lynk & Co 03 Sedan.

Underpinned by the Volvo-developed Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) that also underpins the Volvo XC40 as well as the upcoming S40 saloon and V40 estate, the new Lynk & Co 03 will be powered by the same engines that power the Lynk & Co 01 – a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine delivering up to 148 hp of output and a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine offering 187 hp of max output. A plug-in hybrid version could be on the way, with the possibility of a full EV variant since CMA is developed to support EV technologies. Lynk & Co is claiming that during tests, the hybrid version of the 03 has been able to reach 40 miles of pure electric range.

The Chinese carmaker is expected to unveil the Lynk & Co 03 in metal at the upcoming 2018 Chengdu Motor Show in September.