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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  My Lincoln Ride - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Robert W. Blackwood - October 25 - 8:13 am

  I really enjoy my Lincoln. It is the second L S I have Owned. My first was a 2002 LS. The power is great. it is real Quick. I tested a Chrysler 300 hemi It was quick, but did not have the luxury feel of a Lincoln. My choice was the LS.

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  My first LS...fun so far! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Stan Smith - October 13 - 12:23 am

  I traded in a 2001 Linc Continental for a 2004 Linc LS V8. So far, so good, with a few exceptions - the heated/cooled seat fans are noisy. The steering wheel squeaks. The transmission gets "confused". The front seats, especially the drivers seat, needs to go back a tad further. I am 5-10" and with my foot on the pedal, my knee is slightly bent - it shouldnt be. Definately a sporty feel - not a "comfort" ride like the old Continental. Overall, I am satisfied.

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  After 2 months, still love this car - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By hobby - October 7 - 10:00 am

  I recently purchased this vehicle used and was quite impressed with the power, comfort and handling of this car. The V8 spins up quickly and the car eagerly handles the twisties. I also like the elegant comfort of the leather seats. I dont know what else I could ask for. I was surprised that Lincoln could build such a nimble car with room for my family.

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  2002 LSE Review - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Troy Hamblin - September 25 - 3:53 am

  This car has great acceleration with incredibly smooth automatic shifting. The traction control system is great in the winter in the midwest. I was skeptical about it when I bought the car, but it has proved itself in the winters. It is almost impossible to spin this car around in the snow under normal driving circumstances. It has never happened to me. The car is also very quiet on the inside.

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  BMW KLR - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Sn8kbordin - September 17 - 10:00 am

  I wanted an elegant, luxurious, fun to drive sports sedan. This car fulfills all my needs: rear wheel drive, near 50- 50 weight distribution, V8, enough interior space, big trunk, and it is American made. It is very comfortable (even with the sport package). Has great handling. It is powerful and I get 17MPG in city driving.

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  Happy LSing - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By kchingon - September 3 - 10:00 am

  Been driving it for only 4 days and the more I drive the more I fall in love with it.

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  The best US built luxury sport sedan - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By tony d. - August 30 - 2:00 am

  An extremely capable sport sedan. Good road manners, quiet interior, excellent drivetrain, excellent sound system.

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  solid and strong - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By kheit - August 28 - 10:00 am

  not a bmw but pretty close with thousands in your pocket

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  2001 Lincoln LS V8 - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By sotojm - August 6 - 10:00 am

  i just bought a one of these cars and i love the car. i bought it 2 years old with 64000 miles on it. It has a great ride and handling. I am 18 years old and never considered buying any lincoln but when i saw the LS and drive it, i bought it the next day. the select shift 5 speed transmission makes this thing fly. All of my friends say it is "the Car" and immediately fell in love with it. Check it out, you will be suprised

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  lincoln ls - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By hootie - August 6 - 10:00 am

  Beautiful car all around, awsome handling,beautiful look,inside and out, def. a head turner..