Lynk & Co 08 EM-P PHEV Review: 200 km electric range, fast charging.

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P was launched in Vietnam on the evening of October 24th with two versions, Pro and Halo, priced at VND 1.299 billion and VND 1.389 billion respectively. This D-SUV plug-in hybrid (PHEV) stands out thanks to its 39.6 kWh battery pack providing a pure electric range of up to 200 km according to WLTC standards, supporting 85 kW DC fast charging (30–80% in approximately 28 minutes), and a powertrain with a total output of 345 horsepower and 580 Nm of torque. In a segment already familiar with the KIA Sorento PHEV and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, the 08 EM-P takes a technology-focused approach but sacrifices interior space with only 5 seats.

DNA technology is deeply ingrained, and the problem lies in its practical application.

In theory, the 08 EM-P's PHEV configuration is superior in its class: a large battery rarely seen in PHEVs, fast DC charging speeds, and powerful power output. However, efficiency is heavily dependent on infrastructure: the DC fast charging network in Vietnam is limited; AC charging at home, even at 11 kW, still takes many hours to fully charge the 39.6 kWh battery pack. If users do not have access to suitable infrastructure, the advantage of range may become less significant.

D-SUV style, wide range of color options.

The Lynk & Co 08 EM-P belongs to the D-SUV segment, targeting urban customers who need electric driving during the day and long-distance flexibility when charging. The car comes in 5 exterior colors: black, gray, white, blue, and bronze.

Digital cabin, leading-edge audiovisual experience.

The 08 EM-P's cockpit focuses on the digital experience: a 15.4-inch 2.5K resolution central screen, an AR-HUD (augmented head-up display) equivalent to 92 inches, a Snapdragon 8155 chip, and the "Hey Frank" voice assistant. These features give it a clear advantage over its South Korean competitors, which lack similar amenities.

Sound is the highlight: the Harman Kardon 23-speaker system with 1,600 W of power creates an audio-visual configuration rarely seen in this segment. For comparison, Sorento and Santa Fe at this price point typically only have 12 speakers.

Powertrain: 345 hp, 0–100 km/h in 6.75 seconds

The 08 EM-P uses a 1.5 Turbo gasoline engine combined with an electric motor for a total output of 345 horsepower and 580 Nm of torque; acceleration from 0–100 km/h takes 6.75 seconds (according to the manufacturer). The 39.6 kWh NCM battery pack allows for a pure electric range of up to 200 km according to WLTC, suitable for daily city driving as an electric vehicle. During the journey, the 85 kW DC fast charging capability replenishes 30–80% of the battery in about 28 minutes, a rare feature in current PHEVs. The total driving range can reach approximately 1,400 km based on comparisons within the segment.

The trade-off is that the large battery capacity increases the vehicle's weight and makes it dependent on charging infrastructure. For users who primarily charge at home, consider the several hours of AC charging required to fully charge the 39.6 kWh battery.

Seating capacity: 5 seats, ideal for small families.

Unlike the KIA Sorento PHEV and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, both of which have 7 seats, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P has a 5-seat configuration. Its technological advantages and performance are strong points, but the versatility of carrying passengers in all three rows is not a priority for this model. It's suitable for individual customers or small families who are willing to sacrifice two seats in the third row for longer range and advanced technology.

Competing with South Korean rivals: technology or usability?

In the D-SUV hybrid segment, the Sorento PHEV and Santa Fe Hybrid are familiar choices. The 08 EM-P stands out for its PHEV technology and in-car entertainment, but faces competition from the 7-seat capacity and price of the Korean duo.

Pricing and positioning: higher than competitors, but with a superior experience.

Compared to their 2022 list prices, the KIA Sorento PHEV has now been reduced by approximately 410 million VND, to 1.248 billion VND; the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has been reduced by nearly 200 million VND, to approximately 1.269 billion VND. At launch, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P was priced about 50–140 million VND higher than the average price of the two Korean models. In return, the 08 EM-P offers a 200 km range according to WLTC, 85 kW DC fast charging, and a superior cabin entertainment and digital experience package.

New brands in Vietnam are also a factor for buyers to consider, in addition to charging infrastructure in their area and daily commuting schedules.

Conclusion: Who it suits you, and what to keep in mind.

Advantage

• A 39.6 kWh battery provides 200 km of pure electric range according to WLTC; this is rare in the PHEV group.
• Fast charging with 85 kW DC power, 30–80% charge in approximately 28 minutes; convenient for long journeys.
• Total power output of 345 horsepower, 0–100 km/h in 6.75 seconds (according to the manufacturer).
• The cockpit is packed with technology: a 15.4-inch 2.5K display, AR-HUD, 8155 chip, and a 23-speaker, 1,600-watt sound system.

Limit

• With only 5 seats, it's less versatile compared to the 7-seater Sorento and Santa Fe.
• Charging infrastructure is dependent; home AC charging takes several hours to fully charge large batteries.
• The selling price is slightly higher than its South Korean competitor at the moment.

Overall, the Lynk & Co 08 EM-P is suitable for users who prioritize daily electrification, value cabin technology, and are willing to invest in charging infrastructure. For large families or those who value three rows of seats, the Sorento PHEV and Santa Fe Hybrid remain more accessible options in terms of practicality and cost.