We took to the roads in the all-new Lynk & Co 05 HYPER HALO, a premium compact crossover SUV that commands more than just attention.

Always excited to experience something new, FACT jumped at the chance to try out our very first Lynk & Co vehicle, compliments of Auto Class Cars. Lynk & Co is a global automotive brand created as a joint enterprise between Geely Auto Group and Volvo Car Group. This combination of East and West has resulted in the creation of the high-end 05 HYPER HALO, a compact crossover SUV that is far more than just a pretty face.

Designed to Impress

Visually, the HYPER HALO commanded our attention from the get-go. With dimensions of 4,549mm in length, 1,860mm in width and 1,689mm in height, it pushes the boundaries of the compact SUV segment. The car’s coupe-esque profile endows it with the presence of a much larger vehicle.

From head-on, we took in the signature split headlights that set the tone for the exterior design. The Aurora Borealis Daytime Running Lights stretch sleekly across the edges, while the main LED projector beams are lower in the fascia, giving the vehicle a stealthy and subtly futuristic face. The car’s presence is enhanced by a blacked-out grille, accentuated by an aggressive-looking bumper flanked by air intakes, hinting at the SUV’s performance capabilities.

Shifting our attention to the sides, we took in the sloping roofline and Silver Blade 20-inch wheel rims that underscore the crossover’s silhouette. Even when standing still, this car looks like it’s on the move. The combination of character lines, aerodynamic crafting and muscular hindquarters bestows the HYPER HALO with a steady stance, leaving us confident in the vehicle before we even started the engine.

At the backend, we were greeted by ‘Energy Cube’ LED rear combination lamps and a stylishly integrated sports spoiler, working together to create a modish rear aesthetic. We found the car’s look harmonious and upmarket, competing with SUVs flaunting higher price tags.

Crafted for Comfort and Class

The interior of the 05 was no less impressive and, in many ways, comparable to a luxury saloon. We would describe the cabin as a blend of Scandinavian minimalism, thoughtful ergonomics and high-end materials.

The supportive and comfortable integrated sports seats are made from Nappa and Nubuck, providing a contrast in textures. The seats are 12-way adjustable and feature a memory function to provide excellent lumbar support. The driver’s seat also offers ventilation ensuring maximum comfort when out on the roads.

The cabin is gently illuminated by subtle ambient lighting that we easily adjusted to suit our preferences. A panoramic sunroof ensured natural light reached every inch of the cocoon-like interior, adding to the airy feel.

Abundant storage space, including door bins, a large centre console and underfloor cargo storage provided practicality for larger families and longer journeys. And there was plenty of legroom in the rear along with individual air vents.

Smart, Seamless Tech

Concentrating on the in-car tech, it became apparent that Lynk & Co has a forward-thinking mindset.

At the heart of the infotainment system is a floating 12.7-inch touchscreen featuring an intuitive UI with crisp graphics. This is coupled with a 12.3-inch full digital cluster with equally impressive screen resolution. We found the infotainment system uncomplicated to navigate. It’s also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Bluetooth connectivity and a wireless charging tray make life in the 05 all the easier.

The premium Harman Kardon Infiniti sound system was a standout feature, delivering theatre-worthy sound quality, ensuring we had a great soundtrack throughout our test drive.

Another noteworthy feature was the incredible air-conditioning. Test-driving this compact SUV in 46°C, we were very grateful for the speed and extent at which this unit operated. Within a minute, the entire cabin had reached our desired temperature, creating a chilled sanctuary for our experience.

Performance That Packs a Punch

Eager to see what this beast could do on the roads, we couldn’t help but smile when it was time to engage the ignition.

The 05 HYPER HALO packs a Drive-E 2.0 TD T5 turbocharged engine that delivers 254hp and 350Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and employing an all-wheel-drive system, we powered the SUV from 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds. This time does not do the car justice however, as it feels substantially faster behind the wheel.

Navigating the roads, we were hugely impressed by the SUV’s efficient handling capabilities and found the power delivery both smooth and responsive. The spritely acceleration allowed us to perform quick overtakes and to easily transition onto busier highways. The transmission shifts were seamless and when in Sport Mode, the car was even more responsive, holding gears longer for a sportier feel. Comfort, Off-Road and Eco are additional Mode options.

The AWD system ensured excellent grip at all times, even in sandy patches, enabling cornering with confidence and the balanced chassis, sport-tuned suspension and precise steering meant a dynamic driving experience we will not forget in a hurry.

“Even when standing still, this car looks like it’s on the move.”

Perhaps the 05 HYPER HALO’s greatest achievement is its ability to balance performance with comfort. The floaty feel of our journey was enhanced by the quietness in the cabin as we watched the kilometres roll silently by.

Cutting-Edge Safety

On the safety and driver assistance front, the vehicle is fully loaded. Amongst the many inclusions are Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Change Warning, Blind Side Detection, Traffic Jam Assist, Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning and a 360-degree panoramic camera system.

The Complete Package

The Lynk & Co 05 HYPER HALO is more than just a stylish ride, delivering substance alongside its fashionable design. This compelling compact crossover SUV blends its bold exterior with state-of-the-art technology and an enthusiastic performance. It offers luxury without being pretentious, power without being disorderly and high-tech without being overwhelming. This SUV is a welcome addition to the premium market. ✤

GO: CALL 4040 1499 FOR MORE INFORMATION.