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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  Great car!! - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Stuart Knoll - March 14 - 10:00 am

  I am very fussy about performance, engineering and the overall package. Since this was a new design I was concerned about reliability and performance. I have not been let down and will buy another LS when the time comes, it compares to any of the higher priced European I have driven. This is a great car at a great price especially if you buy at a program car price one year to 18 months out.

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  Who Needs a BMW - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Nolan in Pensacola - March 7 - 1:50 am

  I tell you what. I have had this car for 4 months, and have put on about 5000 miles. It is so much fun to drive, and is extremely comfortable. The only complaint I have about it is the storage space. There is none. The motor is powerful enough and it handles so well. The sport package just makes it look that much cooler.

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  VALUE LUXURY CAR! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By OracleMontage - March 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is a great bargain compared to the Japanese and German equivalents . . .

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  100 % AMERICAN VALUE - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By MARGARITO ALCORTA - February 28 - 10:00 am

  FOR YOUR MONEY, IT EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS, IT IS A FUN CAR TO DRIVE, AND I ALWAYS GET COMPLIMENTS. I AM GLAD I WENT WITH A WINNER.

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  "My Lincoln LS Experience!" - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By ALPHA37 - February 26 - 10:00 am

  My Lincoln LS V8 dominates the road, is attractive, and classy!! Consistently.

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  Great Car blows Cadillac STS hands down - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Great Car - February 25 - 12:00 am

  great car, lots of power, great styling, nav system is great, smooth shifting and riding car, truly a solid car.

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  Riddick review of lincoln ls - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By John Riddick - February 23 - 6:00 am

  This is my third LS and I absolutely love it. All have been the V8, so cant really comment on the V6. Its sporty enough and responsive enough to be a great car, and for the type, I dont think it was that expensive.

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  The Lincoln of the future. - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By CGGorman - February 10 - 2:00 am

  Thinking about a BMW? Audi? Lexus? Infiniti? Forget about the imports. This AMERICAN sports sedan will rock your world! Dont believe the luke- warm press, test drive one for yourself. The LS is the finest sports sedan America has ever produced. By many enthusiasts it is thought to be as- good or better-than the import competition. Support America and see Lincoln in a whole new light. Buy a LS. You wont regret it.

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  One Of The Best! - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Sphil-1 - January 18 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the best if not THE best car Ive ever driven. I traded my 2000 LS and cannot believe what I got. In every aspect this car excels. Dont be fooled by the low cost (arount 48,000) as compared to many similarly equiped luxury cars. It doesnt look cheap, drive cheap or handle cheap! Try one, Im sure youll agree!

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  An American Icon. - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By CDP - January 18 - 2:00 am

  Lincolns have been a part of my family for many years but none are what this car is. It is truly a beautiful car inside and out. Its funny, people are always asking me what kind of car this is. When I take it to get washed, I get special treatment because this car really stands out. But it acts the part. I feel safe with the stability control ABS Brakes and powerful engine. It just goes to show that you dont have to spend lots of money and still get a truly great luxury car. This car is truly a legend!