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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  Great Road Car - 2000 Lincoln LS
  By jimbo - December 20 - 5:56 pm

  Wifes car: Great road car 27-28mpg. have had to rebuild differential $1000 in 09, This year new rack and pinion & ball joints $1000, 07 two new coils and valve gaskets $900. We plan to keep this car although future repairs may change out decision. Car is a joy to drive we do many road trips. Ford recommends prem. we use regular no problems re reg at all over the years

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  Mechanical nightmare - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By dstuartbond - December 15 - 11:03 am

  From the day I drove it off the lot it has been in the shop three times for transmission repairs (starting at under 1,000 miles). The engine stalled out on me and would only run on a few cylinders at 80 miles (yes 80). It is now in the shop for the third time for a rear main engine seal that they cant seem to fix (over three weeks in the shop now). The Electronics keep going out (navigation, stereo front power windows and moon roof) all at the same time. They stop functioning for days at a time and then start working again. The dealer has not been able to isolate this problem. The dealer is beside themselves on all of these issues.

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  Great Car - Horrible paint job - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By LincolnTom - December 8 - 10:00 am

  Great car, horrible paint. I think the dealer ruined the clearcoat when they detailed the car at delivery. Car looked great until I washed it. It was full of swirl marks. Went back 3 times to be rewaxed. I finally did it myself w/Malms.

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  Wonderful Vehicle - 2002 Lincoln LS
  By LS Owner - December 7 - 2:00 am

  An overall wonderful car. And Lincoln treats their customers beautifully.

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  Blind spots - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By zee holly - December 3 - 2:00 am

  Front head rests are too wide, blocks view. Back head rests blocked too much of the back window, therefore, we remove them when there are passengers in the back. Just too many blind spots. This is our 2nd LS (2001). I dont think we will buy another one.

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  Problems with Tire Vibration - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By Problems01 - December 1 - 10:00 am

  I have had problems with tire vibration since I have had the vehicle. The original tires were replaced, but the problem still exists at highway speeds. This will probably be my first and last Lincoln. I have had more problems with this vehicle than all of my previous vehicles combined.

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  Perfect 10 - 2003 Lincoln LS
  By LS is best - December 1 - 3:50 am

  Almost bought a 2002 model, but this is a big improvement, I have the Sport model with power sunroof, and stability control. So much power, lots of room and very conservative styling, this car is not as flashy as the Jaguar it shares architecture with, but appears much more muscular and aggressive. The silver on black combination I have is beautiful and the cooled seats are awesome! The local dealer is very helpful and their service is reasonably priced and professional. This car has been exceptionally reliable and feels very sturdy. I just love it!

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  My Second LS - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By LSLover - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I previously leased a 2001 LS and had some problems with reliability. However, the drive experience more than made up for the problems. When the lease renewal time came, I did not hesitate to stay with the LS. The increased horsepower and improved sound proofing and other tweaks to the design and ride make me glad I stayed with the LS. This is one great ride and a real blast to drive!

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  Excellent - 2004 Lincoln LS
  By rlf - November 29 - 10:00 am

  Excellent American vehicle Power, luxury and super sound

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  Six years and still going strong - 2001 Lincoln LS
  By tjh - November 27 - 4:20 pm

  This has been a great car. Recently rolled 90k. Only significant non- routine maintenance has been recent replacement of a coil. I dont even think about it being 6 years old. Its always been fun to drive - comfortable, quiet, quick, and nimble. My wife is always trying to take it away from me. I dont know what else to say. Originally bought it over a Jag X-type which was smaller and pricier for comparable features. My LS is loaded with everything but heated seats (not needed in the South). Everything (but CD - see below) works like the day I drove it off the lot.