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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  Excellent car for anyone - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By sheri - October 11 - 6:00 am

  I bought this car new and have no problems whatsoever. It handles nice, very comfortable on long trips and even my 30 yr old daughter loves driving it. very nice interior, roomy trunk, and it has enough power for all driving speeds. It is even good on fuel economy. Stereo speakers very good quality. I have driven this car back and forth from California to Texas and back on a few occassions and the car has given me a most pleasurable trips. It handles very well for a midsize car. I feel that anyone who drives this car will enjoy the experience, the ride, comfort and all the little extras, I have. I have had nothing but compliments on my car.

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  greatgreat - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By ritz - October 7 - 2:00 am

  great car i love the way it looks and handles. it is a great car.i am very happy with it

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  a Great Car I Love it!!!!!!! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By lillian Auspitz - October 1 - 2:00 am

  Easy handling. Great appearance.Very comfortable. Great on gas on long trips.Loads of luggage space. Love the drivers seat which moves when you get in!!!!!!!!

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  What a machine!!!!!! - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Steve D Henegar - September 12 - 10:00 am

  My experience with this new car has been awsome. Its hard to believe that this an american made automobile. The handling and performance is almost unbelievable. My last three cars have been BMW 5 series, and I hate to say it but after buying this 03 LS my BMW days are probably over.

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  Great Car - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Sally Steiner - September 2 - 5:16 pm

  What a welcome change from the lumbering behemoths of Lincolns recent past. This car was really quick, fun to drive, good looking inside and had very good amenities for driver and passenger alike. White Pearl finish was awesome. I wish Lincoln would have simply kept working on upgrading the car instead of discontinuing it. Could have been a classic.

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  A Great Automobile - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By dharris - August 31 - 10:23 pm

  I have spent over 45,000 trouble free miles in this car. During this time the car has not failed to start or act up in any other way. Dealer has replaced interior door handles and headlights (due to leaking).

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  Bring back the LS - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By 2005 lincoln ls - August 24 - 7:20 am

  This is the car Id like to be driving forever. I could care less if sales slowed down. I bought one, and when Lincoln decides to bring this vehicle back to the lineup, I will replace mine with a brand new LS

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  Love my LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By ccarl1 - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Congrats to Lincoln on a great attempt to compete w/ the Germans. This car is fun, looks great, and is very comfortable. Only serious gripes are with the V6, fake wood, vinyl for seatbacks and headrests, and a small paint match flop. My 3.0 V6 and Getrag Manual is underpowered for this 4000lb car. The manual makes up for some of the V6s shortcomings. This car has a clean interior thats easy to use and easy on the eyes. One ext flop, my body paint doesnt quite match the fascias. I have the Silver Birch and when the sun hits the side of the car, theres a difference in the amount of metallic in the body paint compared to fascia paint.

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  2001 LS V8 Sport - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By mlv - August 7 - 6:40 pm

  Great car, fun to drive, great performance. Free routine maintenance for 3 years.

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  Sport is the word for Lincoln LS! - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By LS Sport - July 31 - 10:56 am

  I was all set to buy a new Lincoln Town Car, but once I stepped behind the wheel of my Lincoln LS Sport car, I was sold! My new Lincoln LS Sport drives like a Shelby Mustang, and shifts like a Ferrarri. The suspension truly gives it sports car road feel. The instrument cluster is not cluttered and easy to view. The leather wrapped steering wheel is nice to grasp and holds easy on the curve, noting that there is little sway on turns, especially at higher speeds. By combining sport features with luxury, Ford has another great product in this little Lincoln.