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 Best Car Ive Ever Owned - 2004 Lincoln LS
By jldjd - June 3 - 5:10 amA former BMW fan, love this Lincoln. I drive a lot of miles, and it is the best. Wish they had not discontinued the LS. The most comfortable, reliable and just plain fun car Ive ever owned!
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2002 LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
By Tax Man - June 1 - 6:03 pmI have only had the car two months, but I am completely satisfied.
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Ego Driven - 2002 Lincoln LS
By Sparkyhsd - May 30 - 2:00 am@ 17500 mi in 8mos, I have to say I am quite impressed. Yes, the bugs had to be worked out of it due to poor vendors picked by Ford, but the car is a sleeper, 135mph on I-75 felt like just 75mph. Extremely comfortable. Transmission shifting needs to be corrected,, to much delay, & Wind noises in the windows cant be fixed. BEST HANDLING CAR I HAVE EVER DRIVEN FOR THE WEIGHT..WOW!!
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Solid Performer - 2001 Lincoln LS
By Ash - May 24 - 10:00 amI wanted an understated, luxury sedan with all of the finishing touches. The LS is fits the role. Lincoln did a good job on this auto. One trip to the dealer to replace the rear window lift mechanisms - known defect. The LS handles well, looks great and provides an high quality driving experience.
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Great car for the money - 2001 Lincoln LS
By RXMAN - May 21 - 10:00 amI bought this car after owning several imports in June 2001 and currently have 64,000 miles on it. The deal was very good, got the first payment paid by the dealer, a 1.9% interest rate, and free maintanance for 36,000 miles. When I take it to the dealer I receive a free loaner car and I have had a continental, aviator and town car as loaners, The dealer also provides free coffe and donuts and the am paper if you decide to wait. I ride the highway a lot, and the car is very stable and quiet, stereo quality is good but not as good as my previous Nissan Maxima
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luxury 5 speed sleeper - 2000 Lincoln LS
By ntec - May 21 - 10:00 amLet me start by saying this car is a big time sleeper. This is a BMW 5 series fighter all the way at half the cost. I dont think you could spend your money on a better USED luxury car than this. I was looking for a Lexus way overpriced or a Acura Legend old & overpriced.One test drive of this car and the rest is history.The 5spd tranny va voom you cannot get any more joy out of a luxury car than this .This can be driven hard with almost redline shifts or you can take it easy when you have to.Only problems so far,drivers heated seat doesnt work & oil in spark plug jackets.
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Great Used Car Buy - 2000 Lincoln LS
By JonP - May 19 - 10:00 amWhat a great car! Good for me it depreciates fast. I have owned Bimmers, Volvos, SAABs, and others and the fit finish is great. The value for the used car dollar is awesome!
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Great Used Car Buy - 2000 Lincoln LS
By jonp - May 19 - 10:00 amWhat a great car! Good for me it depreciates fast. I have owned Bimmers, Volvos, SAABs, and others and the fit finish is great. The value for the used car dollar is awesome!
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the one car to own! - 2004 Lincoln LS
By (W)reckless - May 15 - 10:00 amThis car is a good perormer. IT smokes the 5 seires in every possible way, except for its reliability. (1 octane is ok, since its a beefy, strong, tourqey V8. Even if you cant afford one, test drive it at least.V8 is a must.
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Great Car - 2004 Lincoln LS
By Mikees - May 15 - 10:00 amLove this car. The heated and cooled seats are fantastic. V6 engine has plenty of power and nice on gas mileage. Plenty of cabin room and storage space.
