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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  Everything I thiught it would be - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By RA Jensen - January 16 - 2:00 am

  Best car Ive ever owned. After 5000 miles, not a single problem or defect of any kind.

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  Sport Sedan Upgrade - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Percy Mack - January 14 - 7:36 am

  My used 2001 LS sold me on this model, so I purchased a 2004 LS in the summer of 2004. I was pleased then and am still pleased after 95000K. The handling is what sold me on this model Lincoln. On long trips using the cruise control net me about 400+ miles per tank. City driving is not so good. Lincoln need to bring this model back. Some factory warranties were still in effect after my regular warranty had expired. When the service department told me that it would be no cost, I was quite pleased. I have had no major problems and hope to drive this one until another one appear in the show windows.

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  2006 LS - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Mike - January 2 - 12:10 pm

  I had a 2000 and 2001 LS. With Lincolns unwise demise of the LS, I decided we needed the last of the breed. As my (2000) LS has over 100K miles and the 2001 had only 60K, we traded in the 2001. We got Dark Cherry with black interior. This car is light years ahead of my 2000. Granted, mine has the V6 and the 06 is the V8, but acceleration is quick and plentiful! Fit and finish is second to none. The car is very tight. It handles better than my 00. The interior is as a Lincoln should be. With the tilt/tele steering wheel and adjustable pedals, it is easy to get the correct position. The NAV is easy to use, and the directions are easily followed. The THX system is outstanding!

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  ls review - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By ljbrac - December 5 - 2:00 am

  i love my lincoln LS is is fun to drive and very confortable. the h eated seats are the best.

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  Josies LS - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By josieb - November 18 - 10:00 am

  I have a 2000 Lincoln LS V8, Ivory Parchment color with taupe interior. After driving this car for 3 years, the performance is still excellent. I get great gas mileage and have had no mechanical problems. This is a "classy" vehicle & it has proven to be very durable. I found three negative aspects about this vehicle. One, the "blind spot" between the front and rear windows; two, the cup holders will only fit a regular sized container; three, the front passenger seat does not adjust beneath the knees. I love MY LS, this is a lease vehicle and my lease. I have not found another vehicle that I like more and will either purchase this one or lease a new one.

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  60000 Miles and going strong!! - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By BROKERNOK - November 10 - 10:00 am

  Ive not had any problems with my LS, love the ride and looks. The stereo could be a little better and come on Lincoln, put it together better. I cant wait for the LSE, 360HP and a 6 speed!!

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  Really Great Automobile - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By dhoening - November 5 - 2:00 am

  Have had no problems since new. With 36,000 miles now, still a blast to drive, and my wife wont let me even think about replacing it anytime soon. Lincoln has a hit on their hands and should leave this one alone!

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  Love my LS to death - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Rich D - September 30 - 2:00 am

  I love the car so much it gives me the look of style and class and the performance is awsome, 2 thumbs up

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  Love at First Site - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Buffalo Springer - September 29 - 10:00 am

  Only had it a week, but the car struck me the first time I laid eyes on it. Smooth understated power, there when you need it. Very quiet cabin.

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  Quality at an affordable price - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By luckyjackg - September 24 - 7:10 am

  Having had similiar type automobiles, I was pleasantly surprised by the handling and pick up this Lincoln had. It handles like a car half its size. People have commented that I must be doing extremely well in life, as the car looks very expensive. It has been confused with a Jaguar (same platform).