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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Smooth and still Sporty! - 2002 Lincoln LS
By Brady - November 5 - 12:43 amI owned an Audi A4TQ and loved the quattro but was growing weary of the maintenance. I was looking for a more comfortable ride without compromising sportiness, and a vehicle easier to maintain. The LS has fit the bill perfectly. I love the v8 power, and fuel economy has not been that bad. I also really like the interior comfort of this car, and the seats are great. The trunk could be a bit bigger. The real test came driving across central Wisconsin in a blizzard. I was cautious, but amazed at how well the rear-wheel drive and traction control handled the terrible road conditions (original Michelin Pilot with 30k miles). The LS has so-far proven to be very reliable, fun and easy!
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lincoln ls - 2004 Lincoln LS
By marvlus - October 21 - 10:00 amI like to ride of the vehicle but those bridgestone tires does not work well in rain or snow. They cause the car to hydroplane. On the interior there is very little storage space for things like CD cases and a place to set your purse.
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I love my LS! - 2002 Lincoln LS
By I LOVE MY LS! - October 5 - 2:56 amBought my LS about 5 years ago and have had absolutely NO problems at all and I love it..Handles well, excellent gas mileage (24-27 MPG) and is very comfortable and fun to drive. Would recommend it! Have had several FORD/LINCOLN products and they have all been excellent cars/trucks! No Problems!
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Under rated Lincoln - 2004 Lincoln LS
By My Lincoln - September 26 - 10:00 amThe Lincoln LSE Sport is one of the most fun to drive automatic transmissions Ive come across. The car hugs the road and increases speed without any hesitation whatsoever. This Lincoln performs like a sports car. I love it. You can keep those overpriced over hyped German cars. Give me a Lincoln and an open road any day.
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Great car - 2004 Lincoln LS
By Lincolnmcluke - September 26 - 10:00 amIts a great car, I love most everything about it. Great handling, smooth ride. Better than european buys.
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ls - 2002 Lincoln LS
By johnny boy - September 6 - 2:00 amoverall, i am pleased. there are few concerns i have. there is not much interior space for storing things (cds, maps, etc. the ride is not as smooth as i thought, but then again, this is a sport car and not the lincoln town car
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My first Lincoln and not my last! - 2001 Lincoln LS
By Vinoguy - September 3 - 10:00 amThis was my first Lincoln, first LS and first 0% loan! Great sound system....it helps with the road noise. The 2004 LS seems to be more quiet. Im waiting for a major body change on the LS before I purchase another one. You can bet Ill get the premium sound system and the sports package. I have had no problems with my LS. I drive it hard and really use the brakes....which had to be replaced at 35K....which was covered under the warranty. Otherwise no repairs! It is every bit as good as a BMW, Lexus or Benz and not as much $$. My friends have these high dollar cars and the repair bills to go with them.
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Fun car to own/head turner - 2000 Lincoln LS
By Mikewmp - August 25 - 10:00 amPurchased this automoble after seing a few around, after test driving several times i purchased the great automoble. Has been in the shop twice once for and accident that this vehicle held up very well during collision and those rear windows. I think other comsumers think every car they buy should be perfect and those that have problem with this vehicle can find that every vehicle is perfect in any fleet show me one. It all has to do with the dealership and the working realtionship. So far great automobile. Remember a human build it.
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Power, Grace, Style - 2003 Lincoln LS
By DWP22 - August 21 - 10:00 amThis car has good power, great handling, and nice luxury features. Ive only had it about a week, so I may not be qualified to rate it on reliability, but so far everything has been exactly what I expected. The buying experience was good, and the rebate and deal made this car several thousand less than the foreign competition. Travel well.
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Ultra LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
By Neil Mitchell - August 8 - 2:00 amFun to drive,handles like a Jag.Power when you need it-lots of it.Lux interior.Great sound system,easy to interpid loaded dash-everything where you need it.Sound ride,you know youre gripping the road!Id easly out performes anything in its class!
