Another year and another new automaker has entered the local motoring scene. This year, it’s Lynk & Co that will do what it can to make an impression in the Philippine market.

The company is set to offer two crossovers to local consumers. The first is subcompact model, while the second is a compact plug-in hybrid electric vehicle. United Asia Automotive Group, Inc. (UAAGI) are the official distributors of the Swedish-Chinese brand.

Swedish-Chinese, you ask? Well, yes. See, Lynk & Co is owned by both Geely and Volvo and was founded in the latter’s home country in 2016. One could call Lynk & Co as the offspring of Volvo and Geely.

PHOTO BY LYNK & CO PHILIPPINES

Anyway, on to the two models it will sell here. Serving as the entry-level model is the 06. Powered by a 1.5-liter, three-cylinder turbo engine, it packs 175hp and 265Nm of torque. It then shifts with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Other highlights include a 540-degree camera, six airbags, and a host of advanced driver assist systems such as adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking. As it uses the BMA platform (Compact Modular Architecture), the 06 uses the same chassis utilized by the Geely Coolray.

PHOTO BY LYNK & CO PHILIPPINES

Moving to the flagship model (at least for now), the 01 competes in the segment above the 06. The compact crossover comes with a plug-in hybrid system, combining its 1.5-liter turbo to an electric motor. That gives this crossover a total system output of 258hp and an electric-only range of up to 69km.

Inside, drivers and passengers are greeted by a fully digital instrument cluster and a 12.7-inch infotainment touchscreen display. Of course, advanced driver assist systems are fitted standard. This is a company that was spun off from Volvo and Geely, after all. As for its platform, it uses the CMA platform derived from the Volvo XC40.

Want to take a closer look at these cars? Lynk & Co Philippines is set to make its official public debut at the upcoming Manila International Auto Show on April 4 to 7, 2024. As for pricing, it's tentatively set at P1,500,000 for the 05 and P2,400,000 for the 01 PHEV.