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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Love it , Love it, Love it! - 2003 Lincoln LS
By Rune47 - December 28 - 11:43 pmYes, this car was built to compete with the European sport luxury sedans, and not only complete, they topped them! If not for the transmission it would have been top rated overall but slipped a bit as its not so great at low rpms. But it is one of the smoothest transmissions you will operate and on the highway it shines! Great power @ upper speeds too! This car is rated as one of the TOP 5 safest cars of ALL TIME! I love its understated elegance and the engineers put some work with the all aluminum fenders and hood and putting the battery in the trunk to acheive a 50-50 weight balance and is one of the reasons for the superior handling. The alum. J-8 eng. is sweet! The Jaguar platform too!
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V8 Sport - 2002 Lincoln LS
By akirby - December 10 - 10:50 pmThis car is pure driving pleasure. It handles great, has plenty of room (for four), has lots of amenities and truly comfortable seats. I find myself making excuses to drive to the store - its that much fun. V8 power is great although it launches a little slower than I would like. It plays the role of highway cruiser and hot rod equally well. Its hard to find a better value in this segment. Highly recommended.
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Excellent in all ways. - 2005 Lincoln LS
By Glynn - November 26 - 5:00 amThis is one the best cars I have had the pleasure to drive and own. After test driving this car I did not even want to look at any others. I used to long for a BMW or Mercedes, but no longer. I am now a loyal customer for many years to come.
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LS is Best Kept Secret - 2004 Lincoln LS
By live214 - November 19 - 2:00 amGreat car that many peple just dont now about , better than BMW 530i. I bought mine at Kronon L M in Chicago they gave me the best price compare to five other dealers, I saved thousands.
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My 2005 Lincoln LS (Sport) V-8 - 2005 Lincoln LS
By Doris - November 14 - 10:30 pmI have owned this car just a little over 4 years, and have had no problems with it. It had 21,000 miles on it when I purchased it. I am religious about maintenance on my vehicles, and thats all Ive had to do. Nothing replaced, everything is still working well at 81,000 miles. I love the way it handles, rides, and the excellent acceleration! Good enough on gas for me (20 around town; 25-26 or so highway). Since it is beautifully styled, you feel beautiful driving it. It turns heads! If Lincoln ever re- introduces it, I will definitely rebuy.
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rinias baby - 2004 Lincoln LS
By rinia cruz - November 14 - 10:00 amIf you own one you will get another.
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Americam muscle in Luxury - 2004 Lincoln LS
By sdempsey - November 14 - 10:00 amCar performs as if it were born for the purpose of making deiving fun again!And yes, it does just that. Cara appearemce is of an auyomobile with a purpose. The handling is on par with Japans and Germanys best. I know, Ive been fortunate to have been an auotmobile salesman for an Audi dealer. We sold a high line used car. Imports from Audi to Lexus and all points in between. The Lincoln LSV8 doesnt have to bow to any of them!
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Lincoln Fun - 2000 Lincoln LS
By viv - November 12 - 10:00 amI love the looks of the Lincoln LS and it is fun to drive.
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2004 LS - 2005 Lincoln LS
By MJFetner - November 11 - 5:33 amNo complaints. Delivered with all the bells and whistles working. The perfect size for me.
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2004 LS - 2005 Lincoln LS
By MJFetner - November 11 - 5:16 amNo complaints. Delivered with all the bells and whistles working. The perfect size for me.
