The Lynk & Co 06 is the mainstream luxury automaker’s entry-level crossover, aimed to rival the Honda HR-V, Ford Territory, and other compact SUVs in a highly competitive market. Having previously tested the Lynk & Co 01 PHEV, which impressed me with its design, quality, and comfort, I was eager to see if the 06 could live up to the same standards as an entry-level model. Moreover, what’s with this paint color?
I got my hands on one during UAAGI’s multi-brand media test drive, which took us on an extensive drive from Quezon City to Clark and then to Subic. This route provided a mix of highway and city driving, offering a comprehensive test of the vehicle’s capabilities.
Geely DNA
The Lynk & Co 06 doesn’t stray far from the brand’s typical styling. It’s sleek, minimal, yet distinctively unique. However, it also carries a sense of Geely Group’s design DNA, much like what the Oliva family might look like at a reunion.
And yes, while the color might appear pink to some, it’s actually Pastel Lilac. This is probably the first time I’ve seen a car with this paint color straight from the showroom. It’s gorgeous, and I personally like it, though it might not be everyone’s cup of tea. For those who prefer something more conventional, the 06 is available in other colors, namely Sonic Green, Gray, and White.
Beyond its eye-catching paint, the 06 boasts large wheels with a unique design. Overall, it stands out in the crowded crossover segment, even without the unique paint job.
Upscale Interior
Being a brand under the Geely Group, the Lynk & Co 06’s cabin shares parts with Volvo and Geely, which is a good thing. The interior feels premium, with a minimalist approach to controls and buttons, enhancing its upscale appeal. This design can be a learning curve for first-time owners, but you’ll get the hang of it after a few hours behind the wheel.
The white leather seats are soft and comfortable for long drives, but they might not age well, especially for families with young children. Fortunately, only the Pastel Lilac 06 comes with the white trimmings; other paint options come with dark upholstery.
The cabin is spacious, with plenty of cubbyholes and storage points. The rear seats are adequate for two large adults but can feel cramped for three. Trunk space is sufficient for a few small suitcases, and there’s a solid tonneau cover. The power tailgate and flat-folding rear seats maximize cargo usage.
The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system complements the minimalist design. While the camera display could be improved, it is functional and more than livable. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the speaker quality is great for everyday listening.
Safety features are comprehensive, including Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), although the adaptive cruise control could use some refinement as its braking isn’t always gradual.
Tuned For Comfort
Under the hood, the Lynk & Co 06 is equipped with a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 178 hp and 290 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. These numbers are impressive given the car’s size and weight. The 06 can sprint spritely when needed, but it’s more tuned for comfort and efficiency rather than sporty performance.
The steering felt a bit too assisted for my liking, and the car could benefit from a tighter steering gear ratio. However, I appreciated its size, making it easy to handle both in the city and on the highway. It remains stable and comfortable at high speeds. The suspension effectively absorbs highway imperfections, though there’s noticeable body roll on long exit ramps.
Premium Without Breaking The Bank
With a starting price of P1,488,000 and topping out at P1,598,000 for the fully-loaded variant, the Lynk & Co 06 offers a premium experience at a mainstream price. While the Honda HR-V might surpass it in terms of outright on-road performance, the 06 stands out with its distinctive design and luxurious cabin.
The Lynk & Co 06 is a compelling option for those seeking a premium crossover without breaking the bank. Its stylish exterior, premium interior, and comfortable driving experience make it a strong contender in its segment. While it may not offer sports car-like performance, it delivers where it matters most for a huge chunk of buyers – comfort, design, and practicality.
