Introduction: Navigating a Competitive Landscape
Link&Co is a high-end brand under Geely. It has faced many challenges in a market with rapidly evolving new energy brands and increasing competition. Initially, the brand relied on older models, such as the 03 and 06, for sales. However, it was the launch of the Link&Co 08 SUV that truly established its position in the new energy sector. Building on this momentum, Link&Co introduced the Link&Co 07 in March this year. This model is their second sedan and their first in the B-segment market. It targets the dynamic hybrid sedan market.
Design Evolution: Embracing a Modern Aesthetic
Link&Co’s vehicle designs have often sparked debate. Some admire the distinct front fascia, calling it attractive and iconic. Others make less flattering comparisons. In response, the brand has adopted a more universally appealing design language called “Extreme-K” starting with the Link&Co 08. The Link&Co 07 follows this trend. It boasts a refined front design with slimmer, split headlights and a grille replaced by a light strip. This aligns with the aesthetics expected in today’s new energy vehicles.
Performance and Proportions
Despite its modest height of 1.48 meters, the Link&Co 07 presents a bulkier appearance. Built on the thick CMA Evo platform, it looks larger than its dimensions suggest. The car features a higher engine bay and a shorter rear end. It also sports a flat roofline, unlike the more common sloping style, giving it a stout and compact look. From the side, it resembles the Link&Co 03 but includes distinct enhancements. These cater to different tastes and preferences.
Wheels and Aerodynamics
At first glance, the Link&Co 07 sports an aggressive set of Goodyear ASYMMETRIC 5 tires, which are 245mm wide and feature the ElectricDrive marking, indicating a balance struck between performance and energy efficiency—ideal for a hybrid vehicle not purely focused on sportiness.
Tailored Rear Design
The rear of the Link&Co 07 adopts the latest design trends with narrow light clusters that maintain mainstream appeal. Inside, the lights retain an energy bar-style design, which adds depth and distinguishes it from models with standard through-type light bars. The Lynk&Co logo is subtly positioned below a modest spoiler, creating a sleek look that is almost hidden when viewed from certain angles, and the car features a sporty diffuser as part of its underbody.
Interior Design: A Shift to Minimalism
Unlike its predecessors known for their elaborate interiors, the Link&Co 07 opts for a more simplified and upscale interior reminiscent of Polestar’s design ethos. The dashboard is devoid of excessive buttons and switches, with most functions integrated into a 15.4-inch central control screen. This move towards a cleaner, more technology-driven environment mirrors the evolving preferences of modern consumers.
Advanced Technologies and Comfort
The Link&Co 07 surprises with its high-tech features, including a dual domestic-developed 7nm SoC—Dragonfly One, which provides superior performance compared to standard chipsets, and is paired with Meizu’s custom Flyme Auto system. This setup ensures exceptional responsiveness and advanced voice interaction capabilities, enhancing the overall user experience.
Seating and Sound System
Our test model of the Link&Co 07 came equipped with a 23-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. This setup delivers excellent audio quality with robust performance in the low and mid frequencies, though it falls slightly short in the high frequencies. Enhancing the vehicle’s luxury, the seats are upholstered in Nappa leather and come with heating, ventilation, and massage features, providing an exceptionally comfortable driving experience.
Conclusion: Setting New Standards in the Sedan Category
The Link&Co 07 is a game-changer in the hybrid sedan category, skillfully blending traditional fuel engine practicality with the advanced efficiency of electric power. Not only does it boast refined design and cutting-edge technology, but it also focuses heavily on performance and comfort. This hybrid model challenges conventional boundaries, offering a rich set of features that underscore its premium market position. As it enters the competitive arena of luxury sedans, the Link&Co 07 is set to leave a substantial mark with its innovative approach.