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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  Love the LS - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Clayborn1 - March 19 - 2:00 am

  I have never thought I would drive a Lincoln, but when they rolled out the LS, I had to have one and I am glad I gave them the chance. I had a BMW, was a great car, but this LS has more room and appeal to me.

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  DONT BUY AN LINCOLN LS - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By jen0 - March 14 - 7:17 am

  Worst car I HAVE EVER OWNED - If I got into all the details and probs Id be here ALL DAY. Put it this way, check engine light was on so many times in the 6 years I owned I cant even recall how many times. Check charging alert - replaced the $200 alternator and $130 battery and STILL ON. This car is an ELECTRONIC NIGHTMARE - I wish I had got rid of this MONEY PIT before I found out my rear A-frame was rotted out beyond fixing, wont pass inspection and isnt safe. Oh and lets not forget its 17" tires get CHEWED through like nothing I have ever seen before- cant even find a decent tire with decent tread rating all below 500. OMG I get hives just thinking about that hunk of crap 02 LS V8

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  Best car for the money - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By texmln - March 12 - 10:00 am

  Put this cars specs up side by side with the BMW 5 Series or the MB C Class (or even the E Class) and youll find that it costs $10k less, has more engine and horsepower, AND is bigger inside and out than even the E Class. Get in and drive it and youll find an excellent riding and handling car with plenty of power. I am very happy with my choice. However, the transmission keeps this car from being a true sports car. It doesnt have a problem, it just isnt made for sporty driving. Likewise with the V8. Lots of power but no real ability to put it on the ground all at once. All around, this car beats anything on wheels in value for your dollars.

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  The Lincoln LS Delivers! - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By ezaircon4jc - March 10 - 2:46 pm

  This the most fun Ive had driving in a loooooong time! The LS handles beautifully. I find myself looking for reasons to drive!

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  Vroom - PUTT PUTT -Cough - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Phillie Dee - February 28 - 2:00 am

  European Sedan handling but road noise is too intrusive. Gas mileage is disappointing and one major problem with the Engine, when pushed at a high rpm range for normal passing,the engine breaks up and misses. Ford claimed that its normal, but I did not buy that line of bunk, especially for a performance sedan. The Dealer is arguing with Ford about it now. We have a loaner, but Once fixed and the warranty is close to expiration, this car is history. I will go back to my full size Mercurys which offer much better value in room, comfort and reliability.

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  Second Great LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By JVW - February 27 - 3:30 am

  Leased my first LS and am buying this one. Had zero problems with the first one and am enjoying continued reliability with this one. Handles exceptionally well although the performance of the V6 is just average. Average mileage in LA traffic is 20-22. Great navigation system - easy to program and use. Unbelievably good THX sound system. Heated and cooled seats are great but I dont really use them that much. Great road-trip car, extremely comfortable and silent, plus nearly 30 MPG highway (actual). Design is my only complaint - dated but still very clean. Only recommendation would be if you can afford the gas (runs premium) Id pick up the V8/sport package for performance boost.

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  Good Car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By CGS - February 17 - 10:00 am

  We have had it for 4 months now and so fare it is great all the way around

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  04 LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By rojodarryl - February 5 - 3:46 pm

  Just bought this car! love it, fun to drive, classy looks and style, all the goodies you can imagine. Very happy with this car.

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  IVE OWNED TWO - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Negritakc - February 5 - 2:00 am

  This is my second LS...first one purchased in 2000 - best car Ive ever owned and I cant imagine ever owning anything but a Lincoln

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  Happy Lincoln Owner - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By DinoDon - February 3 - 10:00 am

  Absolutey a kick to drive, drives like a large sports car. It is extremely tight and quiet, and we love the throaty sound of the V6. Dont need the v8 and I have raced cars. The ultimate sports luxury car. We tested bmw, lexus, accura, and others, but this was the best bang for the buck.