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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  LS Sport V8 - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By mwsouth - March 31 - 6:00 pm

  The Lincon LS is a car that has been overlooked by the public thanks to Lincolns poor job of advertising and promoting car. I have been stopped numerous times ith people asking me what car is that . It is understated, extremely comfortable and fun to drive. Lincoln has called me three times so far to see how I like the car.

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  My Lincoln LS - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Ginny - March 19 - 5:56 am

  Very pleased with this model. Have made two trips to east coast since June. Gas mileage excellent, comfort and ease of operation excellent. Feel very safe in this car. This is our 4th Lincoln. Have had continental models previously and this fulfills our needs. Love driving it.

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  Typical Car -- Audi A6 better! - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Nirvana - March 8 - 11:40 pm

  The Lincoln LS is for the basic transportation, not luxurious as a Cadillac CTS or Audi A6. I had this car for a for a year, and gave me alot of problems. First off it rattled a lot, poor mileage, weak performance. Seats started to rip and tear off, typical Lincoln, you know? Very unreliable, if you think this car is cool, I dare you to test drive a 2005 Audi A6 3.2 Quattro and tell me you didnt enjoy it. I personally wouldnt recommend it, Its your money. Keep on reading.

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  L6 Fantastic Value - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Paul Roberts - March 3 - 7:46 am

  I purchased a 2005 Lincoln LS w/ V6 in June. Between the Dealer, Lincoln & Ford Financing, I was able to snag this gem for $23,000. Its basic for a Lincoln with only special paint as an option. Since its a Lincoln though basic is pretty cush. The ride is great and there are tons of nice features that you wont find on an Accord, Camry and Passat. The fit and finsih are every bit as good as the best of the European and Japanese models. Im delighted with my purchase!

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  Bouncin Like a "Big Dog" In His LS! - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Cynthy-Shorty - March 2 - 10:00 am

  Traded the 00 LS and bought my hubby an 03. This car is 500 times better. Literally! The Advancetrac, engine, (now 280 hp) ride, build quality, seats, adjustable pedals, wheels, appearance, everything has been upgraded! With the addition of the voice activated THX audio/navigation system you can be in your own "Heaven" in this car. Cant hear nothing but the R&B in this cabin! Need I say more!

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  Lincoln LS Ultimate - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Stu - February 18 - 5:23 pm

  A good looking luxury car with many features and lots of power. I love the auto select shift, which gives me the ability to shift from one gear to another manually. Fit and finish are excellent and my car has received numerous nice comments from friends and neighbors. Contols are convenient and easy to use. Handling is superb. My car is fun and easy to drive. It gives me a secure feeling feeling that I did have in my previous car, a Toyota Avalon. As of only 2 plus months of driving my Lincoln, I would highly recommend it to others. I will certainly consider replacing it with another just like it, when I look for my next car in 3 or 4 years.

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  Lincoln LS Ultimate - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Stu - February 18 - 5:06 pm

  A good looking luxury car with many features and lots of power. I love the auto select shift, which gives me the ability to shift from one gear to another manually. Fit and finish are excellent and my car has received numerous nice comments from friends and neighbors. Contols are convenient and easy to use. Handling is superb. My car is fun and easy to drive. It gives me a secure feeling feeling that I did have in my previous car, a Toyota Avalon. As of only 2 plus months of driving my Lincoln, I would highly recommend it to others. I will certainly consider replacing it with another just like it, when I look for my next car in 3 or 4 years.

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  super super car - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By Shirley Schruhl - February 18 - 2:00 am

  super handling, fun to drive and comfort is out of this world

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  A GREAT CAR! - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By B/RIGHT - February 18 - 2:00 am

  THIS IS A GREAT CAR IN EVRY WAY DRIVING HANDLEING LOOKS IS A LINCONL ENOUGH SAID!

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  An American Success - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By reporter7 - February 2 - 2:26 pm

  Although Ive always been partial to european sports sedans, aside from a lack of "snob appeal" the LS V8 offers as much fun and more value than most of the offerings from across the pond. The drive train is faultless -- excellent power, silky smooth, and trouble-free. The ride/handling trade-off is well judged, and the balance possible with rear-wheel drive will be a revelation to those who have become accustomed to front-drivers.