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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  Enjoying A True Bargain American Origina - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Jay Blender - January 10 - 9:00 pm

  Thje LS is my third Lincoln. I began with the 92 Continental which was wonderful until I traded it for the 98 Town Car Touring Edition: the original Touring Edition in Red. What a terrific road car. Ive never driven a 2 ton car that handled as confidentially at the 98 Touring Edition Town Car. Reluctantly, I had to sell it when I moved. The LS apparently was engineered on the successes of the Touring Edition for its tight, quiet and quite fast. It is safe and reflects well on American engineering. It gives about 80% of the performance of the BMW 540 for about twenty-thousand dollars less. Its also roomier and far better styled. BMW wouldnt be my choice now.

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  2004 LS Ultimate - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Bigpinejen - January 9 - 10:00 am

  The LS is fun to drive. I have found the seats to be uncomfortable on a trip. The transmission could be smoother shifting. Overall I really like the styling and performance, especially the handling.

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  If Ford Made all of its cars like the LS - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Drcaveman - January 1 - 10:00 am

  The 03 LS is much improved the handling is superb, the Ride is perfect and the engine finally has the power it needed to cpmpete with BMW. I would have liked to purchase the THX system, but I did not want to waste my money on the NAV System. My fuel economy is about 12MPG if I can control my urges to bash the throttle the Mileage would be much better.

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  Dont be scammed - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By volley6 - December 31 - 8:36 pm

  I bought my Lincoln a year and a half ago. In this time, I have replaced 3 going on 4 window motors (around $200 each), a new ball joint ($400), different valves ($200) along with scheduled maintenance. Although the mechanic said that it was Fords lack of grease that cost me $400, Ford refused to reimburse me. The best part is that my car had been "checked" for that EXACT recall prior to my purchase. A little to ironic for me. I have had nothing but problems with my car and would not recommend it to those without extra money to blow. This has made my first car buying experience a truly memorable one.

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  The Lincoln LS is better than your ride! - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Joey G. - December 29 - 11:23 am

  I have driven plenty or cars and trucks, but the LS is by far the best. I love the speed my V-8 has and how handles all conditions is crazy. If you are thinking of buying a BMW,Caddy,or Mercedes you must try the LS first. Audi, Thunderbird,Volvo,and Saab dont even come close.

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  New Lincoln LS Tampa FL - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Tampa John - December 26 - 7:36 pm

  I feel this car competes with BMW and the Japanese sport sedans in performance and styling. My second car is a late model Corvette,this car has great acceleration and handling characteristics,is almost as much fun to drive as my Vette. The Lincoln LS has been discontinued and my decision to buy was the great value, 11,000 in discounts made this the best value for a great handling and preforming sports sedan.

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  your car is beautiful - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By I love my lincoln - December 14 - 2:00 am

  All round fun, sporty but luxurios car to drive. I love the number of people that tell me that car is beautiful.

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  Good Stuff - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Marjan - December 8 - 7:30 am

  Purchased with 13K on it, coming off lease. Great price as these cars dont hold their value. Great value if you plan on driving it for 10 years like I do. Bang for the buck, much better than comparable BMW, Acura, Lexus and Mercedes products. Im very happy with this product so far.

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  2001 LS V8 Sport review - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By eor2 - November 18 - 2:30 am

  Owned an LS V8 Sport for 10 months, with about 11,000 miles to date. Car has performed excellently during that period. Minor problem with engine sensor, that was replaced without hassle by excellent dealer. Compared with Jag S type and XJ8, and Lexus prior to purchase. LS is far better value for the money than the Jag. Compared with Lexus, LS is more fun to drive.

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  WOW - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Northeast US - November 7 - 5:16 am

  What a shame Lincoln has decided to table this car. It is terrific. I am big fan of this car - I just traded my 02 LS for this one!! I liked the way my 02 handled - this handles better! In addition, this car is a headturner. You cannot go anywhere without somebody doing a double take as you go by!!! Obviously, I did not buy this car for gas mileage, but it is pretty competitive with other cars in its class. I did compare this a BMW 325xi and the Lincoln has more luxury features at a much better price. My out the door price was $35,427. I wish Lincoln would have continued to make this underrated gem. It is great to own an AMERICAN luxury car.