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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  The 05 is even better then 02 - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Faithfull one - January 4 - 5:06 am

  This is my second Lincoln LS I loved my 02 but this one is even better. It has incredible power, handles wonderfully, and is so fun to drive. The even weight from rear to front keeps the car from nose diving when stopping fast. I was sold on it when we were doing 75 mph and the truck in front of us lost his load and we had to stop suddenly. We never lost control and stopped with such ease.

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  Great Car - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By lovemylincoln - January 3 - 10:00 am

  Ive never had a problem with this car. It has great power and acceleration, easy to use controls, and is very comfortable. My only complaint is that the heated seats cycle off and the front leg room is a little short.

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  Wow! What an improvement! - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By chicago ls owner - January 3 - 10:00 am

  I traded in my 2001 LS V8 for the new Premium Sport V8. Even though I loved my old LS, the new one blows it away! There is more room up front, it is much quieter, and I love the new heated and cooled seats. Interior finish is much nicer. So many little changes add up to a much better car. I even test drove a BMW 5 series, and like the LS for what you get for the money. I give it a big thumbs up...

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  My New Baby! - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Mr_Ken - December 11 - 9:10 am

  I finally got the car Ive wanted for 4 yrs! Traded in my Avalon, for a sporty and more comfortable car. Ive tried BMWs (3,5,7) and the 3&5 were painful to sit in, the 7 was maybe equal but a few k more... The Lexus, Toyotas, Nissan, Acura, Honda, Infiniti never had the right mix and most had too much lumbar support that couldnt be backed off enough (my Avalon had front bench seat). I dont expect to get the high miles Ive gotten with my Toyota, but I sure am going to have a lot more fun and comfort when trying to get there! I know I irritated lots of salemen with 30+ test drives, but I put on the miles and I dont want to sacrifice if I dont have too and I dont!

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  This vehicle is pretty amazing - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By McLovin - December 2 - 8:56 pm

  I have always liked the design of the Lincoln LS. Its smooth lines and luxurious interior give a lot of imports a reason for concern. The lines look very similar to that of the Mercedes Benz E-Class of recent years. Though at this point you will only find it used, buying one will be all but disappointing. I found a 2006 with 7900 miles on it and its incredible. The V8 power kicks when you need it, the interior has every amenity you can possibly need and the overall appearance of the LS is solid. Rumor has it that Lincoln will introduce an MKS in mid 2008 (They have the MKZ and the MKX now). Is it reintroduction if the LS? Well have to wait and see.

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  2002 Lincoln LSE...American Advantage - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By ronniepoh - October 29 - 2:00 am

  EXCELLENT vehicle. Powerful, smooth V8 power. EXCELLENT Chassis. (aluminum suspension really makes the car nimble and well balanced). Overall, it performs on par, if not better, than a BMW 5 series. Reliability has been excellent. A highly under rated vehicle. I highly suggest driving one before purchasing any other sedan.

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  Fun, but,... - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By SactoRed - October 29 - 2:00 am

  Bought this 5 speed used w/3k (company car). Only problems have been with rear window regulators (repalced 2x). Not much low end torque but a blast to drive once I switched tires and the engine seemed to loosen up. Fit and finish better than the town car it replaced, paint also holding up better. Drove a V8 loaner and loved the extra power - missed the shifter.

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  Best car I have owned - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By Steve Timm - October 27 - 5:00 pm

  Everything about this car shouts performance and quality. It is everything a BMW or Mercedes is, but better because it is AMERICAN! If there is anything I would change , I would give the back seats a little more leg space. At 63" I have to move the driver seat forward to provide enough leg room for anyone older than 10. My knees almost touch the dash which is not comfortable for any lenght of time. Otherwise a great car.

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  2006 Lincoln LS - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By C. Rose - October 25 - 6:36 pm

  I love this car! The ride is great! I cant believe that this car is being discontinued. This is the kind of car that Ford Motor Co should build around. American luxury that is amazing to drive no matter how you drive! This car is a keeper!

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  As Good AS My 3 and 7 Series - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By krscpa - October 15 - 5:40 am

  After two months this is the Ultimate Driving Machine. On par with my 1997 BMW 328ic and 1999 BMW 740i. Great balance in performance and luxury. Gas mileage was better than expected at average of 24 MPG. THX/NAV system sounds excellent and NAV system is user friendly. Interior very classic and comfortable.