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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  Glens Take - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Spoon - September 2 - 10:00 am

  I was one of the 1st customers to own a LS in April 1999 on a two year lease. This car was terrible with all the system (computer) and fuel problems I encountered. The car was labeled a lemon. I complained a total of 10 times to district reps. Finally, they gave and offered me another model of the same car in a 2001 version. I excepted. This is a wonder if it had some more get up and go. What a shame! Overall I should have waited for the LS-8.

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  Great Price for what you Get! - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By KJ Prod - August 28 - 10:00 am

  Great power, quiet inside, feels solid, Looks great! And lots of standard features.

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  2002 Lincoln LS - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By apdem - August 24 - 11:10 pm

  The car is wonderful. The V6 has plenty of power and the handling is excellent. The Alpine audio system is first rate. Very comfortable interior, but could use more interior storage space.

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  Experience the Lincoln Drive - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By LINCOLN DRIVER - August 21 - 9:40 am

  After looking at the LS models,we are very happy with purchasing the 2001 LS V8 Lincoln Automatic 4-Door.Great handling, good highway manners! Sorry the manufacture has disconituned this model.

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  awesome car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By dan - August 10 - 12:13 pm

  This is a great car. Theres absolutely nothing not to like about it, and what a value. The interior is so well laid out, and the performance is excellent. This is my favorite car.

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  New LS Fan... - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By jldjd - August 10 - 2:00 am

  I have driven a BMW 5 Series for the last 15 years. Tried the LS and it is the best car I have driven. Traded in my 5 Series for the LS and I am a happy man. Beautiful car ... great driving... the best.

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  First impressions of 2002 LS8 Sport - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By Longtime Ford man - August 8 - 10:00 am

  First impression after owning my 2002 LS8 sport one week and driving it 600 miles. I have experimented with the SelectShift transmission in various situations and so far it has performed well. I have not experienced the problems that I see mentioned frequently in reviews. If I shift it as one would normally do with a manual when RPMs are at a reasonable level, it reacts without delay and shifts smoothly. Even when shifting more aggressively, the transmission performs well.

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  Perfect Blend of Form, Function & Value - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By RIXLS - July 22 - 10:00 am

  I have had my LS for about a month now and have loved every minute of it so far. The as-received build quality was excellent. It is very quiet and solid - no rattles or squeaks. The V8 is strong, responsive and quiet. It has excellent power throughout the entire rev range. Handling is superb. The Advance Track system wont let you lose control, especially in rain and snow. Near 50/50 weight distribution. Anti-dive suspension. It is a lot of car for the money compared to BMW, Lexus, Infiniti and Mercedes. It has an excellent Navigation system and a THX certified stereo.

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  I love my Lincoln LS - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By yadira - July 21 - 4:06 pm

  I love my car. Runs good, no noises, fun to drive and I always get nice comment from people. I love the leather interior and lots of room inside. I love it

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  Love it - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Brothers - July 10 - 10:00 am

  This is simply the best car I ever had. The garanty and services are exceptional. I would buy another one!