2000 Lincoln LS: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Lincoln's rear-wheel-drive luxury/sport sedan shares a platform with Jaguar's new S-Type, but the LS is built in Michigan and differs from the British car in styling and equipment. The two share the same basic engines, however, with a 3.0-liter V6 based on that in Ford's Taurus, while the LS's 3.9-liter V8 is derived from Jaguar's 4.0 V8. Both LS engines team with a new 5-speed automatic transmission (also used by the S-Type), but the V6 LS can be ordered with a 5-speed manual. Front side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, wood and leather interior trim, and power tilt/telescopic steering are standard. Automatic-transmission models include traction control and can be optionally equipped with an antiskid system. A firmer-suspension Sport Package replaces 16-inch wheels with 17s and high-performance tires. All manual-transmission LSs have the Sport Package; automatic models with that option get a separate shift gate for manual gear changes. Options include power moonroof and Lincoln's RESCU cell phone/satellite assistance system.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has a clear benchmark, it is the Acura TL (and its 2-door cousin Acura CL). The TL succeeds in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price.
But the Acura's not for everyone. We also recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored Audi A6, the comfortable Buick Park Avenue, the affordable and fast Infiniti I30, and the luxury-orientated Lexus ES 300.