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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  luxury 5 speed sleeper - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By ntec - May 21 - 10:00 am

  Let me start by saying this car is a big time sleeper. This is a BMW 5 series fighter all the way at half the cost. I dont think you could spend your money on a better USED luxury car than this. I was looking for a Lexus way overpriced or a Acura Legend old & overpriced.One test drive of this car and the rest is history.The 5spd tranny va voom you cannot get any more joy out of a luxury car than this .This can be driven hard with almost redline shifts or you can take it easy when you have to.Only problems so far,drivers heated seat doesnt work & oil in spark plug jackets.

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  Great Used Car Buy - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By JonP - May 19 - 10:00 am

  What a great car! Good for me it depreciates fast. I have owned Bimmers, Volvos, SAABs, and others and the fit finish is great. The value for the used car dollar is awesome!

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  Great Used Car Buy - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By jonp - May 19 - 10:00 am

  What a great car! Good for me it depreciates fast. I have owned Bimmers, Volvos, SAABs, and others and the fit finish is great. The value for the used car dollar is awesome!

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  Great Car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Mikees - May 15 - 10:00 am

  Love this car. The heated and cooled seats are fantastic. V6 engine has plenty of power and nice on gas mileage. Plenty of cabin room and storage space.

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  Three years later. - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By John Steinbruck - May 5 - 8:43 pm

  I was nervous at first because of its effeciency and responsiveness in steering (it went exactly where one pointed). It is tight and hugs the highway beautifully. I drive no more than a few miles above limit and rest easy as the fools pass me at 80 and above! It also draws many compliments in the parking areas i visit.

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  American Muscle and Style - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Manny - April 28 - 5:16 pm

  Picked up a pre-owned 2006 with 32k on it. Love the ride, acceleration, and the interior. Im tired of all the gadgetry in all the other cars. I just want to drive, not be freaking entertained. Love the SelectShift and blowing the doors off of Beemers.

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  LS V6 - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By paul124124 - April 9 - 10:00 am

  I found the V6 model to provide excellent performance and handling. This car is fun to dive while still providing an upscale image of a Lincoln.

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  Thank you - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Chris DeLuca - April 4 - 11:06 am

  My experience with my Lincoln LS has been incredible!! The car practically drives itself, and the comfort level is exceptional. My friends and family have made comments that the car is too good for me. I look forward to and look for reasons to drive the car, and my kids love to be seen with Dad in his awesome car. One of my friends daughters refers to my LS as "DeLucas Limo", now that is flattering.

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  lincon review - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By vivian turner - March 14 - 10:00 am

  i think that it has more then enough power i dont think that you should change anything about it is my favorite car that i own. and it was well worth the prise

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  So good, this is my second LS - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Exit32a - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I owned an early 2000 LS V8 and enjoyed the car so much, I ordered a 2003 model as soon as they were introduced. The LS does everything well. From outstanding acceleration to responsive handling, this car exudes poise and class. I should also mention that I bought a new 2002 Thunderbird -- the LSs kissing cousin.