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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  great sport car - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By kambiz - July 21 - 2:00 am

  faster, meaner and more improved overall

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  Job Well Done - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By bonesofstone - July 19 - 10:00 am

  Over time I have owned a number of luxury sedans and I am thoroughly impressed by the LS. Lincoln has come a long way in its quest for a front line competitor with the European and Japanese makes in its class. It is fun to drive as well as practical (selectshift transmission is great in traffic... less use on brakes). Handling is fantastic! One thing Id like to see improved would be shoulder room and leg room for the front and back.

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  quirky - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By m_yount - July 14 - 1:33 pm

  I bought this car about 2 years ago. It has just the right balance of sport and luxury. I can get into traffic as quickly as I need, and It also has a very comfy ride.

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  I love it, but its cursed - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Kristy - July 9 - 8:16 pm

  Keep in mind, I have bought it with 178,000 miles on it at a very good price. Nothing but problems so far. I have barely been able to drive it. The transmission was bad. Replaced rack and pinions, all front control arms, hydraulic fan, hydraulic pump, power steering pump, and drivers side window regulator. Im hoping after the control arms are replaced I will be able to finally drive it. Plus, my air bag light is on. Also, my check engine light is on due to a leak in a HVac hose somewhere. All I say is keep up with the maintenance on this car.

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  Love my LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Phil Newby - July 6 - 2:33 pm

  Most fun Ive ever had in a car.

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  Fantastic Used Car - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Noreen - June 29 - 2:00 am

  Had this car for only a month, but admired co-workers for a year. She adores hers and, so far, I feel the same. Immediately had a problem with headlight retaining water after car was washed, but it was still under original warranty, so dealer had it replaced pronto. Car handles beautifully, V8 is quick to respond, great trunk space including rear fold-down seats, lots of cool dash features that I havent completely learned yet, quiet and smooth ride for its size. I have noticed it to be a sexy head-turner, even though it is exceedingly elegant. Car is everything I hoped it would be.

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  Hot Rod Lincoln - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By billy b. - June 18 - 10:00 am

  i love it! fun, luxurious, and handles like a dream on the back roads to my suburban home.

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  Buy one - do it! - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By massimo - June 16 - 1:46 pm

  I never thought that this car had everything I was looking for, but it does and I still look forwrd to driving it. In the last 10 years I have had 6 BMWs (an M3 and the rest 5- series) and 2 Saabs. To be honest, the beemers were overhyped, the Saabs were awesome, but were always in thw shop. This LS is great. The looks are understated and the motor has a strong powerband.

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  Excellent car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By dwaltus - June 12 - 10:00 am

  My Lincoln LS is a great car and gets better mileage than EPA posted for it. From Oklahoma to California we averaged 30.6 mpg the best tank was 33.4 the worse 27.36 cruses the highway in style and great comfort. In town driving is around 19 mpg.

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  No more - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By chris s - May 30 - 9:33 pm

  Fun to drive and thats about it. 64000 miles and the car is slowely falling apart. Tranny problems, leaky oil valves, radio display dont work, replaced interior mirror and exterior. air bag light come on due to cut wire under the seat. Dealer made it sound like it was my fault because I had my seat set on easy entry.... too many problems to keep it. My wife has a Toyota with 120k miles and no problems. Lincoln, Ford stinks they dont stand behind their product no wonder they have problems.. Cant wait to get rid of this junk. No more American cars, sad but true.