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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  a worthy successor to the old mark serie - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By themacguy - November 8 - 3:00 am

  Purchased this one for about $12k off list at end of model year. Used 90% local and 10% highway driving, so the miles are only around 10k per year or so. Very good value for the money, even taking into account the depreciation factor since we got it so cheap. Black with a light camel interior shows no wear even after 5 years in the. W. Tx. Sun, and thats saying something since its never spent a day under cover. Lincoln should have taken the rear doors out and kept this as a 2 door mark. big mistake as the fwd that replaced it is just a corporate car... My familys had lincolns since the 60s, but Lincoln is clearly in trouble now. Very sad.

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  One of the best sedans owned - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Eric Stevens - October 25 - 7:50 am

  We were looking at a explorer and saw the ls on the lot. My wife fell in love with its styling. After the test drive we were sold. For the money I feel you couldnt ask for a nicer sport sedan. It has always turned heads with its looks and acceleration. Fuel mileage is what I expected for a car this size and weight. Its heavy but handling is great. Why does Ford always change what works for them? Weve put almost 40,000 on it and the extended warranty would be worth it. Had an issue with the steering column squeaking, and the back panel of the front seat falling off. Both covered no problem under warranty, but I had non- critical issues with all new cars Ive purchased. Bring it back.

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  A real value in a sports sedan - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By aegw04t - October 25 - 2:00 am

  Great combination of sport and comfort. Much more room inside than a BMW 530 with similar performance at $15000 less money.

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  NOT a reliable or quality vehicle - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By BrettCFA - October 21 - 2:00 am

  I loved the look of this car and I have also found it to drive very well. HOWEVER, the problems that I have had are unbelievable. Leaking headlights, trim parts consistently falling off, rear windows failing, water in driverside door, driver seat heater didnt work, windshield wiper literally flew off first time used, heater went out twice, oil leaking from valve covers, etc... Simply not reliable. I was promised a vehicle when mine was serviced, but always got an argument from dealer.

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  Lincoln LS-The Lap of Luxury - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By ThadRN - October 20 - 6:50 pm

  The 2006 Lincoln LS is the ultimate luxury automobile.It hugs the road as it cruises along its path. Comfort is realized in every mile that I drive, being underscored by the wood trim, satin nickel accents, outstanding entertainment center, voice recognition navigation system, and smooth ride. I truly enjoy every minute that I am in my car; the price and options are value driven. The auto industry has lost a competent vehicle upon the demise of the Lincoln LS.

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  Depreciation - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Juleon - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I love this LSE, of course you cant find the LSE in the books. LSE has round fog lights, Aerodinamics around the car, 17 inch chrome wheels and chrome tail pipes. Very slick, but depreciates to fast that you do not want to buy another. The front light cover fogs when it rains not good for a for $44,000 vehicle. Also the depreciation on this vehicle is very bad two years later is only worth $16,000, so bad, so bad.

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  Lincoln LS - 2006 Lincoln LS
  By Marlene Sadler - October 9 - 6:36 am

  Car handles fine. Gas mileage needs improvement. This is my first LS, four prior Town Cars, would not repeat this purchase again. Seats are the most uncomfortable I have ever owned. Have had this vehicle one year and in the process of replacing it.

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  Great car to drive - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By SLincoln - September 21 - 10:00 am

  The strong points of this car are its performance. Acceleration and handling are both excellent. This adds up to a very safe high performing car. If you drive freeway this car allows you to get on and through spaces in traffic without any effort. The car tracks very stable and predictably at all speeds through varying tightness and undulating turns. The interior is clean and logically laid out, good rear seat room nice view with theater seating, very good stereo and easy to use NAV system. 7000 miles and no issues. Dealer has performed oil change no charge, the 3 year 36000 mi free maintenance is a great bargain.

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  Little Giant - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Caponsacchi - August 30 - 12:26 am

  The best value in a used car. I paid less than half of the sticker price, and the car, with less than 30,000 miles, was mint. I thought Id wanted a bigger, flashier car--a 2002 Continental or a new Chrysler 300. But both of these models felt clunky and were not much fun to drive. The LS, though understated in exterior appearance, has a substantially longer wheelbase than the Continental. Its trim in appearance, yet it dwarfs my wifes Maxima when theyre side by side. (Shes jealous and wants to trade cars with me.) This is understated luxury, "cool" but not ostentatious. Lots of useful gadgets and conveniences. Only my left knee is disgruntled.

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  excellent ride - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Eldiablo - August 29 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle has all the bells and whistles. The stereo system is outstanding and the navigation worked perfectly on my drive to FL from NY. Its really quick too.