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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  Best car for the money - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By texmln - March 12 - 10:00 am

  Put this cars specs up side by side with the BMW 5 Series or the MB C Class (or even the E Class) and youll find that it costs $10k less, has more engine and horsepower, AND is bigger inside and out than even the E Class. Get in and drive it and youll find an excellent riding and handling car with plenty of power. I am very happy with my choice. However, the transmission keeps this car from being a true sports car. It doesnt have a problem, it just isnt made for sporty driving. Likewise with the V8. Lots of power but no real ability to put it on the ground all at once. All around, this car beats anything on wheels in value for your dollars.

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  The Lincoln LS Delivers! - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By ezaircon4jc - March 10 - 2:46 pm

  This the most fun Ive had driving in a loooooong time! The LS handles beautifully. I find myself looking for reasons to drive!

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  Good Car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By CGS - February 17 - 10:00 am

  We have had it for 4 months now and so fare it is great all the way around

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  04 LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By rojodarryl - February 5 - 3:46 pm

  Just bought this car! love it, fun to drive, classy looks and style, all the goodies you can imagine. Very happy with this car.

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  IVE OWNED TWO - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Negritakc - February 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my second LS...first one purchased in 2000 - best car Ive ever owned and I cant imagine ever owning anything but a Lincoln

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  Happy Lincoln Owner - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By DinoDon - February 3 - 10:00 am

  Absolutey a kick to drive, drives like a large sports car. It is extremely tight and quiet, and we love the throaty sound of the V6. Dont need the v8 and I have raced cars. The ultimate sports luxury car. We tested bmw, lexus, accura, and others, but this was the best bang for the buck.

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  American luxury at its best - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By golfnut - January 27 - 1:20 am

  Traded in my 02 LS for the 06 LS. What a shame that Lincoln has decided to table this car - it is simply fantastic. Compared this car to the BMW 5 series. The Lincoln has as many, if not more luxury features at a fraction of the price. Handles smoothly and has great looks. It is a real head turner. Lincoln finally corrected the lack of interior space and added 17 inch wheels. The gas mileage is not great, but it is not terrible either. It is comparable to other cars in this class. The LS is a blast to drive and it will not break the budget. My out the door price before the trade was $33,268.

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  LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By rhahnke - January 24 - 10:00 am

  Defines excellence in every way, always an eye catcher where ever I go.

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  Happy and safe driving - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By john Steinbruck - January 24 - 10:00 am

  We are extremely pleased--especially with admiring comments.

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  Best Sleeper in its Class - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Todd - January 24 - 8:13 am

  This car is amazing. The perfomance and handling are a major surprise. I am extremely pleased with the smooth ride and handling characteristics at highway speed.