Sunday China Drive | Lynk & Co Z20

The Lynk & Co Z20 (see specs), also known as the Lynk & Co 02 in international markets, is a compact all-electric fastback SUV designed for young buyers and families seeking a stylish, practical, and performance-oriented vehicle. Launched in China with a starting price of 138,900 yuan (approximately 19,150 USD), the Z20 combines technology, a sleek design, and performance metrics. To evaluate its real-world performance, we tested the Lynk & Co Z20 on the urban roads of Panyu, China.

Exterior

The Lynk & Co Z20 features a modern and aerodynamic design that aligns with the brand’s latest design language, as seen in the Z10 (see specs). Its coupe-like silhouette, sloping roofline, and full-width LED taillights give it a futuristic and sporty appearance. The blacked-out rear bumper, complemented by silver trim, adds contrast and sophistication. The brand’s signature characterizes the front of the vehicle, with H-shaped LED daytime running lights, a large lower grille, and headlights integrated into the front bumper. The Z20 also sports newly designed five-spoke wheels in 18- and 19-inch options.

Measuring 4460 mm in length, 1845 mm in width, and 1573 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2755 mm, the Z20 is slightly larger than its sibling, the Zeekr X (see specs), and firmly positions itself within the compact SUV category. Its sleek design contributes to a drag coefficient of 0.25 Cd, which enhances energy efficiency and extends the vehicle’s range.

Interior

The Z20’s interior features a flat-bottom steering wheel, dual wireless phone charging pads, and a large 15.4-inch floating entertainment screen. The centre console includes a thin strip of 63 LED units. The interior uses high-quality materials and has a 14-speaker sound system.

The Z20 offers ample storage space, with a trunk capacity of 450 litres, expandable to 1,410 litres when the rear seats are folded. Additionally, the vehicle includes 36 storage compartments and a frunk.

Driving Experience

The Lynk & Co Z20 delivers a dynamic and engaging driving experience, thanks to its rear-mounted single electric motor producing 250 kW (335 hp) and 373 Nm of torque. This powertrain enables the Z20 to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, making it one of the quicker options in its class.

The Z20 has a 62 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery pack, which supports 4.5C fast charging. This technology allows the vehicle to charge from 10% to 80% in just 15 minutes at a peak charging power of 300 kW. The Z20 boasts a CLTC range of 530 km, making it suitable for urban commutes and longer journeys.

The Z20 strikes a delicate balance between comfort and sportiness on the road. The suspension is tuned to absorb road imperfections while maintaining agility in corners. The steering is precise, and the car feels stable at high speeds, making it a confident highway performer.

However, the advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) is limited. The lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control perform adequately on straight roads but struggle with sharper curves and complex road conditions. While these features are sufficient for reducing driver fatigue on highways, they fall short of offering a fully autonomous driving experience.

Verdict

The Lynk & Co Z20 is a standout option in the compact electric SUV segment, offering a compelling mix of style, performance, and practicality. Its sleek exterior, tech-laden interior, and impressive driving dynamics make it an attractive choice for young buyers and families.

Priced competitively from 138,900 yuan (approximately 19,150 USD), the Z20 delivers exceptional value for money. Its 4.5C fast-charging and 530 km range further enhance its appeal, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

While its ADAS features are essential, they are sufficient for most driving scenarios. Overall, the Lynk & Co Z20 is a well-rounded vehicle that exceeds expectations in its category. For those seeking a stylish, fun-to-drive, and efficient electric SUV, the Z20 should be short-listed and seriously considered.

Stay tuned for next week’s Sunday China Drive at Car News China, where you can read more first-person evaluations of Chinese cars.