2003 Lincoln Town Car: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Revised styling, underskin mechanical changes, and the midyear availability of a navigation system highlight the 2003 revamp of the lone American-brand rear-wheel-drive full-size luxury sedan. Town Car ascends through Executive, Signature, and Cartier trim levels, topped by a limousinelike Cartier L that adds six inches to the wheelbase. All retain a 4.6-liter V8, which gains 14 hp this year. A 4-speed automatic is the sole transmission. Traction control is standard, but no antiskid system is offered. New for '03 is a revamped frame and suspension, different steering system, and standard 17-inch tires vs. 16s. Brakes are antilock 4-wheel discs, now with full-power assist. In addition to reworked front and rear sheetmetal, Town Car has a restyled dashboard with a dual-zone climate system and CD/cassette audio. Front side airbags are new and standard, but rear airbags or curtain side airbags are unavailable. Power-adjustable pedals, leather upholstery, and a front bench seat are standard. A rear-obstacle-detection system is optional on Executive, standard elsewhere. High-intensity headlamps and the new navigation system are available on all but the Executive. With the advent of the navigation system, Lincoln dropped its formerly optional Vehicle Communications System.

COMPETITION

With wide price ranges and numerous body configurations, this diverse segment has two clear Best Buy choices--the refined Lexus LS 430 and the unique Audi A6. The LS 430 can't be beat for comfort and features at around $55,000, while the A6 earns Best Buy status for its blend of space, performance, design sophistication, powertrain choices, and workmanship at prices below those of most rivals.

We Recommend the Acura RL--a steal at around $45,000 fully equipped. Though it is a front-drive V6 in a field of V8 rear-drive models, it has a great ride, plenty of power, and is quite luxurious. If you are looking for something a bit more sporting, we Recommend BMW 5-Series. If your taste ranges more toward the luxury end, then take a look at the roomy Cadillac DeVille.