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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  On my second one.... - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By bcgal29 - July 14 - 2:00 am

  This car is great. This is my second LS. My first one was a 2001 Luxury model, this one is the Sport. Car handles as good as a BMW or Jag. I love my LS and plan to get a newer model soon. This ones up to 64,000 and the only major investments have been tires and front breaks.

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  Luxury sedan - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Newsmellier - July 6 - 10:00 am

  a map guiding device should added in

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  I love my car! - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By cyn - July 3 - 3:00 am

  We bought this car in 08, with 42000 original miles on it in immaculate condition. We went from a Chevy Blazer to the Lincoln LS. What a difference! We got the deal of the century, and couldnt be happier!

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  I love it - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By romaniv90 - June 25 - 2:46 am

  I bought my first LS in 2007 with 104K miles on it. Yesterday, Ive bought my second LS, and I love it. Yeah, I had some trouble with it, but its a used car with a lot miles on, so you should expect some repairs. The only problem Ive had with is it was overheating in traffic, so I went to many different mechanics, and they told me it might be a radiator, or a water pump. Eventually when I changed both of them myself, the motor on the fan broke, and that was the issue. So, I think its not the car, but some mechanics are just not educated enough.Otherwise, the car is amazing, Ive just got a black on black one with low miles, and I can tell you its something amazing for an 18 year old.

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  good stuff - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By selvarajah - June 22 - 3:03 am

  my wife was looking to buy a slightly used BMW 740. We test drove the vehicle and found the LS to have more agility and extremely comfortable. The 740 with its sluggish performance and overly abundant seating was not practical for the extra 20K more for a USED Vehicle. Not to mention the horror stories one hears of with the electronics with German engineered cars.

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  The Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By jldjd - June 3 - 5:10 am

  A former BMW fan, love this Lincoln. I drive a lot of miles, and it is the best. Wish they had not discontinued the LS. The most comfortable, reliable and just plain fun car Ive ever owned!

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  2002 LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Tax Man - June 1 - 6:03 pm

  I have only had the car two months, but I am completely satisfied.

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  Ego Driven - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Sparkyhsd - May 30 - 2:00 am

  @ 17500 mi in 8mos, I have to say I am quite impressed. Yes, the bugs had to be worked out of it due to poor vendors picked by Ford, but the car is a sleeper, 135mph on I-75 felt like just 75mph. Extremely comfortable. Transmission shifting needs to be corrected,, to much delay, & Wind noises in the windows cant be fixed. BEST HANDLING CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN FOR THE WEIGHT..WOW!!

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  Solid Performer - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Ash - May 24 - 10:00 am

  I wanted an understated, luxury sedan with all of the finishing touches. The LS is fits the role. Lincoln did a good job on this auto. One trip to the dealer to replace the rear window lift mechanisms - known defect. The LS handles well, looks great and provides an high quality driving experience.

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  Great car for the money - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By RXMAN - May 21 - 10:00 am

  I bought this car after owning several imports in June 2001 and currently have 64,000 miles on it. The deal was very good, got the first payment paid by the dealer, a 1.9% interest rate, and free maintanance for 36,000 miles. When I take it to the dealer I receive a free loaner car and I have had a continental, aviator and town car as loaners, The dealer also provides free coffe and donuts and the am paper if you decide to wait. I ride the highway a lot, and the car is very stable and quiet, stereo quality is good but not as good as my previous Nissan Maxima