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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  LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By notapplicable - July 15 - 2:00 am

  Outstanding car. I rent Lexus, BMWs etc. The LS is far superior. No probelms--perfect car...

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  Lincoln Ls 2003 - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By SteveRepp - June 20 - 10:00 am

  Smooth Ride. Great Stereo.

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  great car/needs some quality work - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By triman - June 15 - 10:00 am

  this car is a blast to drive, and ive put 36,000 in just under two years. it holds the road wonderfully through the twisting turns of upstate ny and new england, and has superb power to tackle the changes of terrain. the drivers seat is, without a doubt, one of the most comfortable seats in any class, adjusts easily and with memory recall, even those boys at the car wash can play with the seat without upsetting me! im planning on buying the 2003 model in a week or so!!!

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  lincoln LS - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By llsrunner - June 1 - 10:00 am

  Well made car. no issues at all, still solid as a rock

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  One of the best to come - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Travis Bruce - May 26 - 7:06 pm

  This car is just so pleasing and is very capable. So powerful and fast for its time and still is with some of these other car. When i purchased this car I felt like i had something before its time.

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  Love My New LS - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Ann - May 24 - 10:23 pm

  I just purchased a new 2005 LS & love it. Since the new 2006s are out, I got a great price. I plan to drive this car for a long time so the year model wasnt an issue for me. My friends are all quite impressed. One remarked that it was so quiet that it didnt sound like a car, it sounded more like a kitten purring. So far, Im getting 19 mpg city driving & I havent tried it on highway driving yet.

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  own one - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Laf981 - May 23 - 10:00 am

  The performance in this car is great, and I think this car was built for owners to love it. Its interior is elegant and sporty thats why I chose this car.

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  Owner - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Dan Boone - May 11 - 1:23 pm

  Driven mostly on short trips and very satisfied with mileage in town, 20 MPG. On a 2550 mile trip this past summer we experienced 31 MPG. Ride is very comfortable.

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  WHAT A GREAT LINCOLN - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By COBRAJ - May 4 - 1:53 pm

  I was looking for a mid-full size luxury car. Compared to BMW, Mercedes and Cadillac this was by far the best selection. Ten years later Im still overjoyed on my LS Sport. My friends who bought the Bimmer and MBs have already traded their cars in due to repair costs. Over the course of 10 years Ive only had $1200 in costs not associated with the normal wear and tear. Terrific handling, comfort and creature comforts make the LS a great buy. In fact Im looking for a 2006 Ultimate edition now! Great job FLM!

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  American Elegance - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By BarryP - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I absolutely love my car. It looks great, is sporty and fun to drive but still classy and elegant. To me, its the perfect combination of luxury and sporty. Read all the reviews of the entry level and mid-level luxory cars. Then look at the quality, features, and test drive them. Youll see that the Lincoln comes out on top and will save you thousands of dollars over similarly equipped and sized foreign luxory cars. A great value!