Overview & Reviews

When the Lincoln LS was first introduced, it was heralded as the domestic answer to the premium midsize sedans from Europe's luxury brands. At the time, the rear-drive LS had the look and the technology to compete with Europe's best in a way few American cars could. Early reviews pegged it as a 10 in terms of fun to drive, and some described it as a car that offered the roominess of a BMW 5 Series at the price of a 3 Series.

The LS had the option of a V6 or V8 and, thanks to its rear-wheel-drive configuration and well-tuned suspension, was reasonably entertaining on a back road. But as good as the LS seemed initially, the car became less appealing over the years as the ranks of newer, more competent and more luxurious entry-luxury sedans grew. With sales slowing, Lincoln discontinued the LS after the 2006 model year.

Though lacking a little in terms of prestige and refinement, the Lincoln LS is still a respectable choice for a used luxury sedan with sporting tendencies. Its pricing is lower than many competing models, and maintenance costs should also be slightly lower than those of some European cars, but don't expect the LS to be as trouble-free as its competitors from Japan.

Most Recent Lincoln LS

A midsize entry-luxury sedan, the Lincoln LS was produced for the 2000-'06 model years. Originally, the LS was available in just two trim levels differentiated by the engine equipped. The Lincoln LS V8 came with a 252-horsepower, 3.9-liter engine that moved the sedan from zero to 60 in 7.5 seconds. A five-speed automatic transmission was standard.

The less expensive choice was the LS V6. Its 3.0-liter engine provided just 210 hp but slightly better fuel economy. For this engine, Lincoln initially offered either a five-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.

Standard features for both cars included dual-zone automatic climate control, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, alloy wheels, foglights and ABS. However, a few upscale items, such as a navigation system, weren't initially offered.

At the time, we found that V8 versions of the Lincoln LS delivered smooth and acceptable acceleration. The ride was comfortable and compliant, and the LS was at its best when being used as a touring sedan rather than an all-out sport sedan. Notably, it was roomy enough to provide comfortable quarters for four adults. The interior materials were lacking in terms of quality, though, and storage space was minimal in the cabin.

Early models had automatic transmission problems, so it might be wise to avoid them on the used market. Even when that issue was addressed by Lincoln, shifts from the automatic were not exactly smooth and many customers still complained. For this reason, we'd advise any prospective LS buyer to do a thorough test-drive before making a purchase.

For 2003, Lincoln did its first major update on its midsize luxury sedan. Output for the V8 was raised to 280 hp, and the V6 added 12 hp for a total of 222. The five-speed manual that was available with the V6 was dropped due to lack of consumer interest.

Other changes that year included retuned steering (resulting in better feel), a retuned suspension (resulting in a slightly softer ride) and improved interior materials and storage. New features were also added, such as a navigation system, side curtain airbags and a THX sound system. To make the most of your used-car dollar, we suggest looking at 2003 or newer LS models.

A few other changes occurred before the Lincoln LS was discontinued. Satellite radio was added as a dealer-installed option for 2004, and Lincoln made additional improvements to the automatic transmission to improve shift quality. For the final year, the V6 version was dropped from the LS lineup.

User Reviews:

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  My 3rd LS - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By McCarNut - December 28 - 5:43 pm

  I have had three LSs which should tell it all. I love the handling and elegant styling. Although all three were similar looking there have been many changes & improvements, most notably interior storage. My only complaint is the weak transmission. The first two LSs have had to gears replaced. But the dealership took care of it promptly and the cars were fixed to my satisfaction.

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  lincoln ls v8 - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By dan - December 28 - 2:03 pm

  its a great car that can go fast and has cool features and is fun to drive

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  Step up from MarkVIII - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Steve Berndt - December 25 - 5:00 am

  Hated to leave Mark VIII, but really excited and pleased with performance style, curb appeal, and all the goodies. Cockpit is very driver friendly, speed and audio controls handy. Heat-A/C seats a gem. Travel from Maine to Fl 10 times a year. Heated wiper, seat is great in snow. Great storage, fold down seats a real plus. Transmission choice brings fun back to driving... Unless a Markclone comes back, Im a happy guy.

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  2005 Lincoln LS Sport - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By dizzy8 - December 17 - 8:51 am

  As a long owner of Ford/Lincoln products this car is very understated. Very quick for a 4 door with the 32 valve/285HP V8. The only issues I have had with the car in 100,000 miles is coil packs which are covered by ford for 10yrs or 100.000 miles. If you buy one used, check with ford. They have replaced all of them. The other concern was the cooling system. IF the car has over 75K, I recommend cooling tank and plastic pipe-like hoses be replaced and whatever else the service technician may recommend. I alway recommend transmission fluid service every 40K or so to keep the additives fresh.

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  Almost There. - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By pcard - December 4 - 10:00 am

  Lincoln has finally made a car and not a boat. The LS gives you the feel of a European sports sedan at a substantial discounted price. However, the car suffers from small but irksome problems. City mileage is lousy. Back windows tend to breakdown with minimal use. Front headlight covers may collect moisture. Fortunately the dealers were easy to work with and there have been no repeat problems after repairs were made. Car also tends to be resistant to downshifting.

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  Almost but not there yet! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Kingster - November 26 - 11:36 am

  I purchased my 2004 LS V8 Unlimited in Jan. of 2007. I test drove it and purchased within hours. I loved the ride and power but was unsure about the transmission. Although I had doubts it was a better car for me than my GTP. I love the V8, nav system and cooled seats are wonderful. But I am getting more dissimpressed with the transmission everyday.

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  European Luxury, with an American Price - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Khuram Khan - November 19 - 8:53 pm

  Car is absolutely solid. Handles amazing on twisty roads. Drive one and youll want one. This car will make you forget about the Bimmers.

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  A Happy Customer - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By New Jersey Driver - November 16 - 2:00 am

  I have been driving Mercury Sables for years....I decided to opt up to purchasing a Lincoln LS. It is a much more powerful car as compared to the Sable and much more luxurious. The ULTIMATE package includes several options. It is about the same size as the Sable in terms of driver and passenger room. I am completely satisfied with this purchase and very happy.

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  American Luxury, by a 30 year old. - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Trace - November 16 - 2:00 am

  After test driving several 2001 entry level sedans (Infiniti I30, Lexus ES 300, BMW 3 series) I was pleasantly suprised with the Lincoln LS V8. The LS I bought satisfied all I was looking for: comfort, luxury smooth but fun to drive, and good value for a used car. All this coming from an Infinti enthusiast since owning a J30 and I30 recently. After getting over the connotation of the name "Lincoln" as my grandfathers car, I feel in love with my first American made auto. The features it offers rival the best of the European luxury sedans, with a much better price tag. I think it has a sophisticated yet subtle body design- I dare to say even elegant.

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  my lincoln ls - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By ameriyens - November 16 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Lincoln(LS, V8). I cant explain in words, Im So in Love. I have friends with Mercedes, after riding in my car, They fell cheated with their cars.