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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  Love My Lincoln LS! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By hynqween - May 30 - 5:50 am

  I LOVE my Lincoln LS and will purchase another after this one. EXCELLENT Lincoln customer service no matter where I go... and moved from Southern California to Missouri. My first four door car and I wouldnt settle! Very beautiful car.

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  Road car heaven - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Ian - May 24 - 2:56 am

  This is the car I have been looking for. In a world of front wheel drive sedans the rear wheel LS is a breath of fresh air. I had the fortunate experience of driving my new LS back to back wih my brother in laws BMW 535 IX. The BMW was a little faster, a little quieter and a little more agile - but not by much. Certainly not enough to justify the huge price difference. The LS handles well and looks good. I had the pleasure of driving a 2003 V6 model on a solo road trip from Florida to Michigan a few years ago and never tired of getting back in after a long days drive. A great drivers car. My 2006 V8 is even better and I like it more each time I drive it.

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  They STILL Dont Believe Its A Lincoln - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Stan The Man - May 4 - 2:00 am

  Its been almost 2 years since I got my LS Sport (V8). Even now, people still ask me what kind of car it is because of the way it looks and performs. Its the best car Ive ever owned or driven. This (rear wheel drive) car is very sure-footed. Grips the road even when you add a little water. The handling is just superb! Love that Advance Trac. The Select Shift too! For around forty grand, this vehicle is a work of art!!!

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  Not your fathers lincoln - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By LSGrin - April 27 - 10:00 am

  Benchmarked to the BMW 530. Luxo performance drivers car. Very balanced. Bring on the twisties for the "LS grin." For good information, see the Lincoln LS Owners Club on line (30 days free membership). Definitely not your fathters Lincoln. More like, "How Rod Lincoln" by Commander Cody and the Lost Planet Airmen. Much improved over the earlier iterations (before 2003)in all respects -- the NY Times review on line is out of date and does not do it justice.

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  LOVE This Car! - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Deb - April 24 - 5:10 am

  Bought new, hitting 115,000 miles now, and still going strong. It is a beautiful car inside and out. I keep thinking its getting old and maybe I need to replace it, but I cant find a comparable car in size, quality, luxury features, comfort, performance, and "reasonable cost" anywhere. The seats are also extremely comfortable - even on very long rides. It also has the "get up and go" needed when youre entering highways, passing, etc. I have always kept it up, and I still get many compliments on its look/style. I really wish Lincoln would come out with this again.

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  2002 LS SPORT - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Ringmaster - April 5 - 8:16 am

  We purchased our LS Sport in October after looking at BMWs etc. We are totally happy about the decision to do the LS. It is the best handeling highway/back road automobile I have ever driven. I really feel the LS is a sleeper, a BMW on steriods at a $15K -$20K savings. Maybe more considering it has the wheelbase of a 7 series. Ill give up that last 10th of performance and luxury and with the savings get off the road on weekends and go sailing with the money I saved.

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  2006 LS-last on the lot - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By J. Pasquale - April 3 - 6:20 pm

  I looked at a number of large sedans-- ES & GS Lexus-BMW 5 -M45 Infiniti--- even a Toyota Avalon-- I drove this one last and bought it the same day- silver w/a black leather interior-The LS was by far the best value for the dollar (by thousands): rear wheel drive and balanced suspension and almost 300hp for plenty of pickup-It has a premium interior design--plenty of headroom- hip and leg comfort for a over 6 foot frame--- options include air & heated seats-- moonroof, smart keys, etc..a complete package with the exception of navigation--but this was the last one on the lot.

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  Looks brand new - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Stacy - March 30 - 7:46 am

  I love the way this car looks and drives. No one ever believes that the car is 5 years old now. It looks good!

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  Lincoln LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Vaughn - March 20 - 7:03 pm

  All around its the best car Ive owned. My biggest complaint is the size and placement of the cup holders.

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  Love the LS - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Clayborn1 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have never thought I would drive a Lincoln, but when they rolled out the LS, I had to have one and I am glad I gave them the chance. I had a BMW, was a great car, but this LS has more room and appeal to me.