Head to Head: Lynk & Co 05 vs Changan UNI-K

In this edition of Head to Head, we’re pitting two premium crossovers against each other, namely, the Lynk & Co 05 and the Changan UNI-K. With both crossovers priced between the P2.7 million and 2.8 million mark, they’re well within striking range of each other for a good showdown.

Before diving into the spec sheet showdown, let’s start with a bit of background. Both the 05 and the UNI-K began production around 2020, but their arrival in the Philippine market didn’t align. The UNI-K made its local debut in 2022, while the 05 only recently landed during this year’s Manila International Auto Show. Although their Philippine launches were staggered, these two crossovers have been in production for roughly the same length of time.

Now, let’s get straight to the numbers and see how they stack up. Spoiler alert: the competition is much closer than you might think.

Starting with the Lynk & Co 05, this crossover exhibits the Lynk & Co look with its sleek lines, curves, and cuts plus its avant-garde front end. The rear gets a lot more dramatic featuring a coupe-style rear end, stylish LED taillights, and functional twin exhaust pipes. Add to that 20-inch alloy wheels and the Lynk & Co 05 has all the ingredients for a head-turning crossover.

Meanwhile, the Changan UNI-K features the same futuristic theme as the 05 but delivers it with a more aggressive style. The front end of the UNI-K showcases Changan’s V-shaped grille in a body-colored honeycomb design, reminiscent of EV styling. At the rear, the UNI-K adopts a more conventional trunk design compared to the 05, yet it still includes a sporty spoiler that complements the LED taillights. Below, the UNI-K features quad exhaust tips. Unfortunately, these are purely aesthetic and lack the functionality of the exhaust tips on the 05.

The competition between the Lynk & Co 05 and the UNI-K is tight, as both crossovers deliver the sporty appeal expected in this segment. However, when it comes to size, Changan’s UNI-K has the edge. It measures 4,865 mm long, 1,948 mm wide, and 1,700 mm tall, with an impressive wheelbase of 2,890 mm. In comparison, the Lynk & Co 05 is more compact at 4,592 mm in length, 1,879 mm in width, 1,628 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,734 mm.

As for visual impact, the UNI-K’s conventional design may resonate with a wider audience, but the Lynk & Co 05 stands out with its more distinctive and unique styling, giving it the edge in terms of sheer wow factor.

Winner: Lynk & Co 05

Moving to the interior, starting with the 05, this crossover boasts a bold and sporty cabin design, highlighted by a dark color palette with vibrant red ambient lighting accents. The driver-centric dashboard layout emphasizes a high-tech, performance-oriented vibe, with a seamlessly integrated digital instrument cluster and central touchscreen for a sleek and modern aesthetic. Premium materials, such as soft-touch surfaces and metallic trims, elevate the overall feel. However, the compact dimensions of the Lynk & Co 05 come at the expense of practicality, offering a maximum cargo capacity of 1,050 liters with the rear seats folded. While the rear bench can accommodate three passengers, the pronounced bolstering may make it less comfortable for the middle occupant.

Overall, the Lynk & Co 05 carries its sporty exterior theme into the cabin, featuring a driver-centric interior design. Subjectively, it exudes an energy that inspires you to drive with a heavier foot than normal.

In contrast, the Changan UNI-K opts for a more luxurious and open feel with its light tan leather upholstery and elegant black accents. Remember the UNI-K’s measurements from earlier? Thanks to the choice of colors, the UNI-K’s already sizable interior feels more spacious and bright, emphasizing comfort and sophistication. The dashboard integrates a large, widescreen infotainment system that flows smoothly into the instrument cluster, providing a cohesive design. Soft materials and fine stitching highlight the attention to detail, creating a premium yet warm ambiance. When it comes to practicality, the Changan UNI-K offers a maximum cargo capacity of 1,412 liters with the second row folded. Additionally, the rear seats can comfortably accommodate three passengers, and thanks to their flatter design, fitting a third passenger in the middle is much easier.

Sporty styling, particularly in the dashboard, wheels, and center console, combined with the bolstered seat hints at the UNI-K’s sporty capabilities, but it’s integrated well with its luxurious interior.

Just like with the exterior, it’s another tight competition between these two, but this time, the Changan UNI-K takes the win. Its larger dimensions translate to more usable space for both the driver and passengers, making it a more practical choice compared to the Lynk & Co 05.

Winner: Changan UNI-K

The Changan UNI-K and Lynk & Co 05 both come equipped with cutting-edge tech and safety features, but they cater to slightly different priorities.

The Lynk & Co 05 offers a tech-rich interior, featuring a 12.7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a premium Harman Infinity sound system. On the safety front, the 05 boasts a full suite of airbags and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Automatic Emergency Braking, along with a 360-degree camera for enhanced visibility​. In addition, the 05 also features ISOFIX seat anchors, a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and a feature called Park Out Function which helps guide drivers into tight parking spaces or garages.

Meanwhile, the Changan UNI-K also impresses with a 12.3-inch touchscreen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus a digital instrument cluster. Its advanced tech includes a wireless charging pad and customizable ambient lighting. On the safety side, the UNI-K excels with ADAS as well, featuring Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, and Blind Spot Monitoring. Additionally, it comes with a suite of six airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Both the Lynk & Co 05 and Changan UNI-K are packed with a comprehensive array of tech and safety features, ensuring that you won’t feel short-changed regardless of your choice. While both vehicles offer advanced driver-assistance systems, high-quality infotainment, and robust safety options, the Lynk & Co 05 gains a slight edge with unique features like the Park Out function, which adds convenience in tight spaces. However, when it comes to the overall tech and safety package, both crossovers are evenly matched, delivering cutting-edge solutions designed to enhance both security and driving experience.

Winner: Tie

Moving on to the powertrain, we’ll talk about how much power these crossovers are able to put down.

Starting with the 05, Lynk & Co’s sporty crossover features a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine mated to an Aisin eight-speed automatic transmission with an all-wheel drive system developed by BorgWarner. In terms of power, the 05 puts out a peak power output of 251 hp at 5,500 rpm and a max torque figure of 350 Nm between 1,800 rpm and 4,800 rpm. All this power is transmitted to all four wheels via its conventional automatic transmission and sophisticated all-wheel drive system giving it a sporty and capable driving characteristic.

Meanwhile, the Changan UNI-K is quite the same but with different performance figures. Powering the UNI-K is a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine mated to an eight-speed automatic that transfers power to all four wheels. Specifically, the UNI-K’s engine puts out 229 hp at 5,500 rpm and 390 Nm of torque between 1,900 rpm and 3,300 rpm.

Another close race, but the Lynk & Co 05 edges out a win. The UNI-K boasts the torquier engine of the two, but the 05 delivers more horsepower. Furthermore, despite its torque deficit, the 05’s engine provides maximum torque over a wider rev range, giving it a more linear powerband, and making it more engaging to drive.

Winner: Lynk & Co 05

In terms of pricing, the Changan UNI-K is listed at P2,719,000, making it P29,000 cheaper than the Lynk & Co 05, which comes in at P2,748,000.

Since both models are offered in a single variant, there isn’t much flexibility in pricing, making this a straightforward comparison. In this category, the Changan UNI-K takes the edge with its slightly more affordable P2,719,000 price tag.

Winner: Changan UNI-K

Now that we’ve compared the specs of the Lynk & Co 05 and the Changan UNI-K, what’s the verdict? In this head-to-head, the win goes to the Lynk & Co 05, though the UNI-K puts up an impressive fight. The 05 edges ahead thanks to its superior power output, distinctive styling, and a robust suite of tech and safety features, solidifying its position as a sporty, premium crossover.

That said, the UNI-K is a formidable contender, offering a refined, luxurious experience with excellent driving dynamics, all at a slightly lower price point. Ultimately, while both vehicles compete in the premium crossover segment, they deliver distinctly different driving experiences, catering to different preferences.

Whichever one you choose, you can rest assured that both offer excellent value, delivering a well-rounded package that justifies their respective price tags. Whether you prefer the sporty flair of the 05 or the hidden elegance of the UNI-K, you’re getting a premium crossover that excels in its class.

Overall Winner: Lynk & Co 05