The Evolution of the Lynk & Co 03 & 03+ Performance Sedan

The Lynk & Co 03+ stands as one of the most distinctive performance sedans to emerge from China’s modern automotive industry. Since its debut in 2019, the 03+ has evolved from a relatively affordable all-wheel-drive sport compact into a technologically advanced, motorsport-inspired machine with limited-production variants and increasing global attention.

This article explores the full evolution of the 03+, including production years, trim levels, special editions, engineering developments, and its future outlook.

Origins of the Lynk & Co 03 Platform (2018–2019)

Before the 03+ arrived, the foundation was laid by the Lynk & Co 03, which debuted in 2018 as a compact sedan built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), shared with Volvo models.

The standard 03 offered multiple turbocharged engines ranging from 1.5-liter to 2.0-liter units, with outputs between about 156 and 190 horsepower.

However, Lynk & Co quickly identified an opportunity to create a high-performance halo model—one that would reflect the brand’s involvement in touring car racing, particularly in the WTCR (World Touring Car Cup).

.
THIS could come in handy for your auto garage (and everywhere else!):

Launch of the Lynk & Co 03+ (2019)

Introduction (2019–2022 Pre-Facelift)

The Lynk & Co 03+ was officially launched in June 2019 as the first true performance model in the lineup.

Key Specifications (2019–2022)

Production years: 2019–2022
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
Power: 254 horsepower
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive
Transmission: 8-speed automatic

This configuration enabled the 03+ to accelerate from 0–60 mph in around 5.6 seconds, placing it firmly in competition with established sport compact sedans.

Early Trim Structure (2019–2022)

During its initial production phase, the 03+ lineup was relatively simple but offered multiple equipment tiers:

Standard 03+
Core performance model with AWD and sport styling
03+ High/Pro Trim (market-dependent)
Added upgraded interior materials, larger infotainment systems, and advanced driver assistance
Optional Performance Packages
Included sport exhaust systems, upgraded wheels, and enhanced suspension tuning

These trims emphasized value, offering high performance at a relatively accessible price point.

Expansion with Special Editions (2021–2022)

03+ Cyan Edition (2021)

In August 2021, Lynk & Co introduced the Lynk & Co 03+ Cyan Edition, a more focused and track-inspired variant.

Key Upgrades:

Power increased to approximately 261 horsepower
Torque increased to 280 lb-ft
0–60 mph in about 5.7 seconds
Upgraded components:
- Akebono performance brakes
- Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires
- Bilstein adjustable dampers
- Carbon fiber aerodynamic elements

The Cyan Edition also featured exclusive styling, including Cyan Racing branding and a distinctive blue exterior color.

Positioning

The Cyan Edition marked a shift in the 03+ lineup—from a sporty daily driver to a more track-capable vehicle, directly influenced by Lynk & Co’s racing success.

Major Facelift and Second Phase (2022–Present)

2023 Model Year Facelift

The Lynk & Co 03 lineup, including the 03+, received a major facelift in late 2022 for the 2023 model year.

Key Updates:

Redesigned exterior with more aggressive styling
Updated interior with larger digital displays
New infotainment system powered by Qualcomm chips
Expanded driver assistance systems with up to 25 sensors

Powertrain Changes (03+ Facelift)

Engine output increased to ~262 horsepower
Continued use of AWD and 8-speed automatic transmission

This facelift modernized the 03+ and aligned it with newer Lynk & Co design language.

High-Performance Expansion (2023)

03+ Racing and 03+ TCR Cyan (2023–Present)

In October 2023, Lynk & Co introduced two extreme performance variants:

1. Lynk & Co 03+ Racing

AWD configuration
Motorsport-inspired tuning
Enhanced suspension and aerodynamics

2. Lynk & Co 03+ TCR Cyan

Front-wheel drive (race-inspired layout)
Two-seat configuration
Extensive weight reduction
Power output up to 345 horsepower

Both models were co-developed with Cyan Racing and produced in very limited numbers, reinforcing the 03+’s motorsport credentials.

2024–2025: Champion Edition and Expanded Lineup

03+ TCR Champion Edition Pro (2024–2025)

In August 2024, Lynk & Co introduced the 03+ TCR Champion Edition Pro for the 2025 model year.

Key Features:

Exclusive “Dune Gold” exterior color
Multiple engine options:
- 1.5-liter turbo (181 horsepower)
- 2.0-liter turbo (254 horsepower)
Transmission options:
- 7-speed dual-clutch (1.5L)
- 8-speed automatic (2.0L)

Trim Levels (2025)

Unlike earlier years, the Champion Edition Pro introduced a broader trim structure:

Base Trim
Mid-Level Trim
High Trim
Performance Trim
Flagship Trim

This marked the most diverse lineup in the 03+’s history, catering to both performance enthusiasts and more mainstream buyers.

Complete Trim and Model Overview (2019–Present)

Standard Production Models

03+ Base / Standard
03+ Pro / High Trim

Special Editions

03+ Cyan Edition (2021–present, limited availability)
03+ Racing (2023–present, limited production)
03+ TCR Cyan (2023–present, ultra-limited)
03+ TCR Champion Edition Pro (2024–present)

Key Powertrain Variants

2.0T (254 hp) AWD
2.0T (261–262 hp) AWD
2.0T high-performance (345 hp, Racing/TCR models)
1.5T (181 hp, Champion Edition Pro entry variant)

Engineering and Performance Philosophy

The 03+ has consistently emphasized a blend of performance and usability.

Core Engineering Features:

CMA platform (shared with Volvo models)
All-wheel-drive system for improved traction
Performance-tuned suspension
Advanced braking systems (Akebono in higher trims)

Driving Characteristics:

Strong mid-range torque
Balanced handling for daily and track use
Competitive acceleration in its segment

This combination has allowed the 03+ to compete with established sport sedans like the Volkswagen Golf R and Honda Civic Type R in terms of performance positioning.

Motorsports Influence

A major factor in the 03+’s evolution is Lynk & Co’s involvement in touring car racing.

The Cyan Racing team has achieved multiple championships in the WTCR, directly influencing the development of road-going models. This connection is particularly evident in:

Cyan Edition
TCR Cyan
Racing variants

These models incorporate race-derived components such as aerodynamic kits, suspension tuning, and braking systems.

Market Position and Reception

The Lynk & Co 03+ is primarily sold in China but has gained attention internationally due to its performance and unique design.

Strengths:

Strong performance-to-price ratio
Distinctive styling
Motorsport pedigree

Challenges:

Limited availability outside China
Brand recognition still growing globally

Despite these challenges, the 03+ has built a loyal following among enthusiasts.

Future Outlook

The future of the Lynk & Co 03+ will likely reflect broader industry trends toward electrification.

Expected Developments:

Hybrid or plug-in hybrid performance variants
Increased use of electrified powertrains
Continued collaboration with Cyan Racing
Potential global expansion

Given Lynk & Co’s access to Volvo and Geely technology, the next evolution of the 03+ may combine high performance with electrified efficiency.

Since its introduction in 2019, the Lynk & Co 03+ has undergone a remarkable evolution. What began as a relatively straightforward performance sedan has grown into a diverse lineup that includes track-focused limited editions, luxury-oriented trims, and technologically advanced updates.

From the original 254-horsepower model to the 345-horsepower TCR variants, the 03+ demonstrates how rapidly a modern performance car can evolve. Its blend of affordability, motorsport influence, and cutting-edge technology ensures that it remains one of the most intriguing sport sedans on the market today.

As the automotive industry continues shifting toward electrification, the 03+ is well-positioned to adapt—potentially becoming a new kind of performance car for the next generation.