The LS is a rather old design, originally introduced for the 2000 model year and unchanged since 2003. Be that as it may, it remains a highly competitive product, showing its age only in its behind-the-times interior, which at least features good ergonomics. The LS has an impressive ride/handling compromise, and comfortable seats, and is at least competent in all other ways. Furthermore, expect to pay well under the sticker price for the vehicle ($7,000, for this example) thanks to lackluster demand sparked primarily by the car's pedestrian styling and Lincoln badge.

         The LS has a comfortable, though rather firm ride that is both well-controlled and absorbent. The ride's firmness doesn't hurt ride comfort, but it gives the car surprising handling capability. The LS has little body roll and quick, accurate steering. Though it still doesn't feel as agile as its smaller rivals, it is still a fun-to-drive vehicle, especially compared to some cruise-only rivals. The 3.0-liter V6, though upgraded for 2003, provides mediocre acceleration for a car in this class, and is a bit noisy. Wind noise is well-suppressed, though road noise is noticeable, especially on poor pavement. Fuel economy is merely adequate by this group's standards.

         Inside, the LS has large, roomy, firm, supportive, and very comfortable front seats. The rear is well-shaped and generally comfortable, though head and legroom is a bit tight. The interior is constructed to the standards of 2000, which have since been changed dramatically. Thus, the quality level of its materials, especially on the doors and on the center stack, are below par. The gauges are very large, and clear enough. The instruments are logically laid out with very good contrast. Drivers sit very comfortably, but visibility is obstructed somewhat by thick roof pillars. Entry/exit is complicated by a low roof, and the doors could open wider as well. The trunk isn't especially roomy, nor is it very well-shaped.

          The LS did well in crash testing, earning a Best Pick rating in its IIHS offset crash test. NHTSA awarded it five stars for the driver and four for the front passenger in its frontal crash test, and four stars for the driver and five stars for the rear passenger in its side crash test. The IIHS did not evaluate its side-impact protection.

      The LS reviewed here is expensive for this class, but very well-equipped. It has no navigation system, but essentially every other option found in most cars here, and a few rare ones, such as heated and cooled front seats, rear park assist, heated rear seats, and power-adjustable pedals. The LS doesn't have the best features-for-the-money ratio in this group, but it is impressive in that way, and in the features that it offers in this price range.

         Overall, the LS is an impressive vehicle and a solid value. It represents a very well-rounded package, falling short mainly for its unimpressive acceleration and outdated interior. But the car is certainly worth a look that it is rarely given from consumer shopping in this class.

Pros:

-Ride Comfort

-Seat Comfort

-Agility

Cons:

-Interior Quality

-Acceleration

Overall:

Don't let the car's styling or name fool you, the LS is no junior Town Car.

Version Reviewed:

V6 Premium

Price of Version Reviewed:

$33,596

Powertrain:

3.0-liter V6