Lynk & Co 08 EM-P

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P’s cabin features a blend of Nappa leather upholstery and microfiber vinyl finishes. It looks and feels very premium inside this SUV. Its well-padded seats just comfortably hug your body and ensure that you are in a good sitting position even when passing through unpleasant road conditions. The front row is a very nice place to be in. But, its second row space is a bit limited for three large and tall passengers. 

This SUV also comes with a high-tech cockpit that offers a 10.25-inch HD full digital instrument cluster and a microfiber vinyl-wrapped steering wheel with multiple controls. All passengers can enjoy a 15.4-inch infotainment display with a built-in camera inside and offers wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, USB, a wireless charger. This infotainment is linked to a 23-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, delivering top-notch acoustics for an immersive riding experience. 

However, all of the car’s interior features are touch-controlled via the infotainment display, which might be a minor issue for other drivers. But, on the plus side, you have loads of compartments both at the front and rear, two 12V power sockets (front and cargo), three Type-C ports, and one Type-A port. It also has an ambient lighting system and a panoramic sunroof.

In terms of dimensions, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P measures 4,820 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,685 mm in height. This PHEV has a 2,848 mm wheelbase and a 186 mm ground clearance.

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P’s “Next Day” design language features sleek curves, sharp character lines, and hypermodern elements. It has just the right balance of sportiness and elegance from every angle. Upfront, it sports a clean, futuristic facade enhanced by matrix LED headlamps with an adaptive front lighting system along with ‘Dawn Light’ DRLs. It also has a black lower grille for more depth. 

It has a premium side profile accentuated by a tinted sunroof with UV protection, which gives off an appealing floating roof vibe. It comes with ‘Water Flow’ side turn lamps, flush door handles, and a dynamic-looking set of 21-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Aside from these, its back end also looks as stylish as its facade thanks to its ‘Penetrating Energy Cube’ LED tail lamps. 

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P utilizes a MacPherson independent suspension at the front, while a Multi-Link independent suspension at the rear, both complemented by stabilizer bars. Thanks to this setup, you’ll be able to hit sharp turns and corners confidently, even at high speeds. It is agile and lightweight, so you’ll be able to easily maneuver this within the Metro. It also has a decent absorption of bumps and uneven concrete pavements. 

The Lynk & Co 08 is powered by the brand’s EM-P (plug-in hybrid) system, which combines dual Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors with a 1.5L turbocharged engine. Its dual electric motors generate a motor power of 218 PS and a motor torque of 350 Nm. These motors are powered by a 39.6 kWh Nickel Manganese Cobalt battery pack, which delivers a 200-km full EV, WLTP driving range. 

Meanwhile, its turbocharged engine has a maximum power output of 163 PS and a maximum torque of 255 Nm. Combined, this hybrid system produces a power output of 381 PS and a torque of 615 Nm. This SUV runs on a 3DHT Evo transmission system and utilizes a front-wheel drivetrain. It is equipped with three drive modes: EV, Hybrid, and Power.

This SUV’s hybrid system generates power smoothly and instantly. Its transmission system is also pretty responsive. On the highway, it delivers a nice pull and can overtake with ease and precision. Meanwhile, in the city, it is impressively efficient, making it a very feasible and cost-efficient ride for your daily commute. 

Safety is one of the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P’s strongest feats. It comes with an advanced 18-point ADAS suite, which includes a camera system, parking sensors, automatic parking system, traffic jam assist, front and rear collision warnings, blind spot monitoring system, lane departure warning system, and a driver attention monitor among others. 

Its braking setup is also supported by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability program, hydraulic brake assist, hill start assist, and hill descent control. It utilizes ventilated discs for front braking, while solid discs for the rear. 

While its price may limit its appeal for some local buyers, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P, in my opinion, earns its asking price. It delivers excellent efficiency and range, while also being richly equipped and genuinely capable on the road.