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:

• 

  Embarrassing quality issues - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Soxfan647 - November 15 - 8:00 pm

  I leased my 2005 LS V8 about a month ago, and have already had the vehicle in for service. The vehicle had several exterior trim fit and finish quality issues, including hood misalignment, driver side tail lamp misalignment, and passenger side rear door misalignment that resulted in the door latch impacting the striker bar, causing a loud squeaking noise when driving over bumps. Ultimately, 3 of the 4 doors were realigned, which took care of the squeaking noise. The driver side tail lamp and hood were both realigned. My only performance complaint is the responsiveness of the transmission. As a Ford employee, Im embarrassed that our luxury flagship would have these build quality issues.

• 

  AdvanceTrac Blues - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Rob Brixey - November 14 - 10:00 am

  Our car had 3 warranty related service calls on a advancetrac trouble before the dealership was successful in fixing it. I had to call Lincoln Customer Service Headquarters and complain. I couldnt find the Lincoln Commitment they hyped so much when they sold me the car. Nobody cared. My next car will be a Cadillac STS...

• 

  Excellent Value - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By LLP - November 9 - 6:26 am

  I find this vehicle is quick & handles extremely well. The Lincoln service has been the best! This car has been great & I have ordered a 2002 V8 Premium with all available options. One minor annoyance - it rides a little stiff over pot holes but out on the highway it is fantastic.

• 

  Pleasure to drive - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Rich B - November 7 - 7:23 am

  This car is by far the best car I have ever owned. After 6 years of driving it I still look foward to driving it everywhere we go,and I have 3 other cars. Its the best looking car from any view especially the front. Its still solid and quiet as the day I bought it. I would recommend this car to all who want a great driving experiance over the long haul. P.S Its also the best value out there for the price.

• 

  Linclon - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Darrin Davis - November 5 - 10:00 am

  I just bought a Linclon LS and a Linclon Towncar both for $77,000. The LS has a dream ride and a good reliability record but has sevral other problems. The car doesnt handle like my old LS or my old Toyota Avalon. My Towncar is even worse. It doesnt drive, is to big, and has already needded a new transmission after 2000 miles. By Toyota instead

• 

  Lincoln LS is a Classy car - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By gkarg - November 5 - 10:00 am

  I have really enjoyed my 2000 LS. I have had nary a problem with this vehicle and the satisfaction of ownership has been excellent. Long distance trips are a breeze. The early Duratec V6s dont have quite enough low-end umph - but when not loaded, there is ample power for every day commuting. The handling is superb. Ride is awesome. The safety features and ratings were a high point for me. I do not drive it in the winter, but with snow tires - it will perform in snowy conditions just fine.

• 

  Great car gone bad! - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By D.Boyd - October 30 - 10:16 pm

  I purchased my 2001 LS as a lease return in Jan. of 2004 with 66,000K. Car was in perfect condition and had just been serviced by the dealer. Purchased a 48 month/50K warranty.Put 22,400 miles in 4 years when the transmission solenoids went bad. Cost $1090 to fix. Then a coil went bad. Cost $690. 10 months after the transmission problem, the transmission went out again. The dealer had closed so I went to AMMCO for the work. Cost $4200. Was thinking this car is costing me way too much when the car stopped on the freeway. Towed to dealer ,the engine coils were bad. Cost $2470. Dealer could not get the car to idle correctly. Took the car back 3 times, no luck. Traded in for 07 Infiniti G35.

• 

  My Leased Lincoln - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By Fred Nickols - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I leased a 2000 Lincoln LS V8 with no intention of ever owning it. After three years, Ive changed my mind. It is the best riding, best performing car Ive ever had.

• 

  Best Ive owned - 2005 Lincoln LS
  By 4d4erv - October 26 - 12:00 am

  Just purchased. Drove over 600 miles yesterday and got better that 23 mph. Good I think for not broken in. I expect the 26 est. to be realistic with more miles on the car. Lots of extras make driving experience enjoyable. Love the leather and the seats offer lots of support on long drive.

• 

  I LOVE MY LINCOLN LS - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By rainjogger - October 23 - 10:00 am

  I bought my V8 LS in July 2000, waiting for the bugs of the "new" lincoln car to be cleaned up. I have only average driving mileage (30k)for 3 years, but love the way my car drives and the wonderful milage of the V8 sport. I have only had one issue - a rear window motor replacement. The car has provided enough power and enthusiasm whether Im driving to pick up my kids or to visit distant relatives 600+ miles away. Please dont change my car platform so I can get it again for my next car!