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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  My Lincoln LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By yungdogg06 - October 17 - 8:28 am

  This car is pretty nice. I bought it in 08 with 35,000mi. In 2010 I started having problems. Transmission went out. Somewhere around $2500 to fix. Shortly after I noticed small things were breaking. A/c vent breaking off, driver chair back broke off, traction control button fell off, eyeglass holder wont stay latched, side rear view mirrors wont adjust, fuel buttons broke... And soon after the rear differential jacked up on me. Thats another $1500 that I payed out of my pocket. If thats not bad enough, just last week on a road trip.... My shifter cable popped off, wrapped around the drive shaft, ripped of trans cover, ripped off sensors and more. Guess theyre not built to last.

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  Lincoln LS V/6 - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By w5ihv - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I have just returned from a 5,000 mile trip in mu new Lincoln LS, in general the automobile handled well, the comfort level was good. Mileage, (combined) was 27.8. I do not care for the requirement for 91 octane fuel. The automobile interior noise level is higher than I had expected. The LS performed well under some bad conditions, with water over the highway. In general I am satisfied, but not really impressed.

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  Should have gotten an IMPORT! - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By AndyLuck - October 16 - 10:00 am

  the ls was nice when i 1st purchased it. smooth, classy & stylish. thats until a month later i had to take it to the shop and ever since. i been having to take it in every other month for a problem. it seems endless. worst yet, for some reason, no other auto machanic place will service the car. not even for breaks???? there is only one lincoln dealer in this city and they stink at the repairs. the problem comes back everytime. nothing gets fixed. this car is an american headache. get an import!

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  Lincoln LS Sport V8 - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By NativeSon - October 4 - 2:00 am

  I intended to buy a 4.2 Jaguar or a BMW 540 or 530 when I stumbled on the LS V8 Sports Model. What a find! This car compares very well with either in terms of performance, styling and surpasses them in comfort and value. Nimble, lots of power, and all the conveniences only an American luxury car can deliver. This car is a winner. Seats four comfortably, big trunk, THX sound system, right size.

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  best car on the road - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By eriebuckeye - October 2 - 10:00 am

  this thing handles like my camaro but its more fun to drive

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  Love My Early Build 10/99 LS! - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By ls1bmw0 - September 5 - 8:20 am

  I purchased my 2000 LS in October 1999. It was an early build model built in July 1999. I have 68,000 miles on it and it has been the most trouble-free car I have owned. Power is adequate, roominess is larger than a BMW 5-series, and the handling is phenomenal! For a car this size it handles like a much smaller German sports sedan. I would recommend this car to anyone looking for a luxury sports sedan.

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  Luxury & Performance - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By sclark8 - August 30 - 5:36 pm

  This is the most fun car to drive I have ever owned. I find myself taking 80 mile trips just to get some milk. I have owned BMW in the past and will not go back to the overpriced German car. Great Car

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  Awesome LS but... - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Pete - August 28 - 3:53 am

  04 LS is just awesome to drive and look at and want to be in all the time but, fuel mileage is terrible in city and transmission. Has been in dealer shop twice now and is going back again due to jerky shifts, bucking uphills even after replacing trans solenoids.

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  My favorite car - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By Stu - August 22 - 10:56 am

  Car is solid and fun to drive. The V8 engine provides effortless power. Ford has done a good job with this car and should advertise it more. Many of the cars features are available on other cars, but my Lincoln demonstrates a special quality, that justifies a premium price. My "LS Ultimate" is very quiet on the road and yet, you always feel secure and comfortable. Controls are convenient and easy to reach. The "LS" is not a big car, yet is good looking and commands a respect not seen in similar priced automobiles. It has all the goodies that belong on a premium automobile.

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  a classy ride - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By adam nelson - August 13 - 6:03 am

  i was a little worried at first because of all electrical components but after a short time the car seems to be well built. i am however concerned with the talk about the transmission being less than excellent.