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:

• 

  Luvin my new 01 LS - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Paulie_G - April 9 - 10:00 am

  Just bought my used 2001 LS last week. Im still in awe about this vehicle. I got a V6, maybe slightly underpowered but I dont mind it. The ride is smooth, seats are very comfortable like riding around in a plush lazy boy. Mine has the Alpine CD-6 indash changer w/the audiophile speaker system....ROCKS!

• 

  nice ride - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By jk - April 7 - 12:53 am

  Car is fun to drive, but expensive to fix. I find myself driving faster and not realizing it. Gas mileage is decent, but could be better.

• 

  6-month checkup - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By erik glaser - April 2 - 1:43 am

  the handling is so good that the ride experience seems less exciting than say, the mustang; and it certainly would be nice to have a 5- or six-speed manual option; but take a glance down at the speedo. and realize that youre doing 95 when you swear it could only be 70- not shabby. negatives:1) the doors are CHEAP/LIGHT/CHATTERY 2)the Advanctrak, while it has probably saved my life, when disabled does NOT turn off the traction control at take-off, which leaves one at an initial disadvantage next to a... sports-car competitor; furthermore, the select- shift doesnt help with this 0-to- whatever limitation(it does, delightfully, help with manuevering around those ubiquitious left-lane Volvos).

• 

  You get what you pay for - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By youngun123 - March 31 - 4:45 am

  in the end it all comes down to how the car is maintained and taken care of. Mine, a 2000, gen1, maintained, documented since its purchase, two owners ago was good to see when purchasing the vehicle. Typically people only write a review on this website if they are very un satisfied and did not take care of the vehicle. Rarely does a middle of the road person or satisfied person write a review, ever. so far, 30,000 miles into the purchase of the vehicle (127k when i bought it, 157k now) no issues. Only basic oil changes, trans fluid, etc. If you use premium gas, your coils do not burn up and the engine will be fine. This perticular one has ran on premium since it was purchased.

• 

  Excellent Luxury Sport - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By sax - March 23 - 2:00 am

  Wanted a bimmer, but couldnt afford it. This car is great! I cant wonder why there arent more of them on the road. An automatic chick magnet.

• 

  Best Car ever. - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Kelly - March 12 - 10:20 pm

  I owned a 01 Lincoln LS until 12/23/09 and the reason for that is someone rear ended me and pushed me into oncoming traffic i then collided with a mustang i had 3 people plus me in the car we all walked away with just scraps and bruises that lincoln LS saved my family and my lives I will never drive anything else i will only feel safe in the lincoln so i am now shopping for a another one....

• 

  Lincoln LS 2002 Premium - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Lincoln LS Fan - March 11 - 11:43 pm

  My 2002 Lincoln LS, Premium, has been very reliable, comfortable, and enjoyaalbe. The most impressive aspect of the LS is its superior handling characteristics, especially in cornering and emergency avoidance maneuvers. The LSs Advance Trac system combined with winter tires enables the vehicle to climb all of Pittsburghs snowy hills without trouble. The performance from the V6 is more than adequate, and the transmission shifts smoothly and flawlessly, even in our hilly terrain. After owning very acceptable vehicles such as Avalons and Camrys, I strongly believe the Lincoln LS is the most reliable and enjoyable vehicle I have owned.

• 

  2004 LSV8 - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Jim - February 20 - 12:20 pm

  I have owned this car since 12/06. Been to the dealer 3 times with coil problems. Each time it was fixed at no charge. Other then the rattles in the doors, that I fxed with some grease I love this car. The heated and A/C seats are great as is the 2 zone climate control. The engine is strong and I like the SST transmission. Seats are very comfortable even on long trips. The Instruments panel is dated in my opinion and I cant read the speedo to easy from my seating position. These are just minor grips. I gace up my Chyrsler 300C to my wife for this ride and I have no complaints. If they made an 07 I would buy that next as I enjoy this car that much.

• 

  My dream car turned nightmare - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Shadigga - February 9 - 1:16 am

  I havent had this car(00 v8) 4 more than a yr and its a nightmare.ive spent almost 2000 with repairs.thermostat, 2 window regs, ball joint,upper control arm, tire rod, gaskets, tires, brakes, with repairs left to be made. this was my dream car and i wish i had never bought it.

• 

  An undiscovered gem. - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Dapper - February 2 - 2:00 am

  Own a 2004 sport V8. Previous Lincolns (3) were Continentals. This car is as different as night and day. I liked my Continentals but this car is much more FUN to drive. I think that Lincoln should be pushing this car more than it does. I think it could hold its own against any family car on the road.You dont have to be young to enjoy this car I am over 60.