2021 Lynk & Co 02 hatchback in China; 254 PS Golf GTI rival priced from CNY 176k

Lynk & Co 02 hatchback is now officially launched in China and takes aim at hot hatches like the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Only 1 variant is available, priced at CNY 176,800 (RM 114k). Like the Lynk & Co 03+ sedan, there is only 1 colour option for the 02 hatchback which is orange.

There is an optional handling package that costs CNY 5,000 (RM 3.2k) that adds 19-inch forged alloys wrapped in Michelin PS4 rubbers and an aluminium front strut bar.

The 02 hatchback is powered by Volvo’s Drive-E 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol paired to an Aisin 8-speed automatic.

It packs 254 PS and 350 Nm of torque (which is Volvo’s T5 state of tune). There is an overboost function that momentarily bumps the torque to 380 Nm, allowing the 02 hatchback to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.3 litres per 100 km.

Specification wise, you are looking at leather with Alcantara combination upholstery, sport seats, 10.25-inch LCD instrument cluster, 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 10-speaker Infinity sound system, rear air vents and a full suite of Level 2 ADAS.

Editor’s comment: I have to say I am very drawn towards the Lynk & Co 02 hatchback’s proportions and interior. Makes the Golf GTI looks mellow. This is how I envision hot hatches to be – brash, unapologetic, and special.

Although it is certain that the 02 hatchback will not run rings around the Golf GTI on a circuit or touge, it does serve as a starting point for the driving enthusiast.

Lynk & Co is not a sham either, they hold three World Titles in the FIA World Touring Car Cup (WTCR). They should know a thing or two about building performance cars.