A Brief Look at the Lincoln LS
The Lincoln LS: A Historical Overview
The Lincoln LS, a mid-sized luxury sedan, was introduced in 2000 as a replacement for the Lincoln Mark VIII. It was the first Lincoln vehicle to be built on the DEW98 platform, which was shared with the Jaguar S-Type and Ford Thunderbird. The LS was an important model for Lincoln, as it represented its attempt to attract younger buyers and break away from the brand’s reputation for producing large, aging vehicles.
First Generation (2000-2002)
The first generation of the Lincoln LS was launched in 2000, and it was available in two trim levels: the V6 and V8. The V6 model was powered by a 3.0-liter DOHC V6 engine, which produced 210 horsepower and 205 lb-ft of torque. The V8 model, on the other hand, was powered by a 3.9-liter DOHC V8 engine, which produced 252 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque.
Both models came standard with a five-speed automatic transmission. The V8 model had the option of a sport-tuned suspension, which included 17-inch wheels, summer tires, and a rear spoiler. Standard features on both models included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, automatic climate control, and a six-speaker audio system.
Second Generation (2003-2006)
The second generation of the Lincoln LS was launched in 2003, and it saw a number of improvements over the previous model. The V6 engine was replaced with a more powerful 3.9-liter DOHC V8 engine, which produced 280 horsepower and 286 lb-ft of torque. The V8 engine was also updated, and it now produced 302 horsepower and 312 lb-ft of torque.
The transmission was also upgraded to a six-speed automatic, which improved fuel efficiency and performance. An optional Sport package was still available, and it included 18-inch wheels, performance tires, and upgraded brakes.
New features included HID headlights, side airbags, and a THX-certified audio system. The LS also received a new instrument panel and center console, which were designed to be more user-friendly.
Third Generation (2006-2009)
The third and final generation of the Lincoln LS was introduced in 2006, and it saw a number of changes compared to the previous model. The V8 engine was dropped, and the only engine option was a 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine, which produced 280 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
The six-speed automatic transmission was retained, and it now featured a manual shift mode. The Sport package was also dropped, but many of its features were incorporated into the base model, including 17-inch wheels, rear spoiler, and a sport-tuned suspension.
New features included a voice-activated navigation system, Sirius satellite radio, and heated and cooled front seats. The interior was also updated, and it now featured wood and aluminum trim accents.
Throughout its three generations, the Lincoln LS remained a popular luxury car for buyers looking for a vehicle that combined sleek styling with high performance and advanced technology. While the LS may not have achieved the same level of success as some of its competitors, it represented a significant step forward for the Lincoln brand and helped to establish it as a serious player in the luxury car market.