2005 Lincoln LS: Road Test
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2005 Lincoln LS ▼
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- MSRP: $32,640 -$43,590
- Invoice: $30,071 -$39,926
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Our road test for the 2005 Lincoln LS includes a full evaluation of the 2005 Lincoln LS from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 Lincoln LS, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 Lincoln LS help you decide if a 2005 Lincoln LS is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 7 | 6.6 |
Test V8 LS did 6.8 sec 0-60 mph, competitive for the class. V6 LSs adequate in undemanding driving, but considerably slower than V8s. Both engines provide good power in 30-50-mph range, but transmission's indecisive gear selection annoys in light-throttle cruising and its tardy downshifts hamper passing response.
FUEL ECONOMY
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.6 |
Test V8 models averaged 17.7-19.0 mpg. Test V6 averaged 20.3. Lincoln recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.9 |
Not as composed overall as European rivals, but comfortable enough over most bumps. Minor impacts from tar strips and expansion joints fairly well-masked. Little difference in ride quality with V8's larger tires, tauter sport suspension.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 7.1 |
With good grip and steering feel, reasonably well-checked body lean, LS is capable and balanced in twists and turns. V8's sport suspension, larger tires enhance response. We recommend the antiskid system for its added measure of safety. Strong stopping power.
QUIETNESS
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Wind noise muted. Minor tire roar on coarse pavement. Engines subdued at cruise, but V6 sounds gruff in aggressive acceleration.
CONTROLS
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 6.7 |
Clear gauges. Climate system mounted low with small display, but easy to use. Navigation touch screen absorbs most audio functions, but with less complication than most. Most interior materials slightly below class standard, though Premium and Ultimate models' wood trim is stately.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.4 |
Firm, comfortable seats; heating and cooling a nice feature and can be preset to maintain same temperature as automatic climate system. Ample leg room, but sunroof cuts into head clearance. Large door mirrors offset visibility lost to thick rear roof pillars.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.6 |
No excess foot space or knee clearance, but seat is set back enough to accommodate most adults, though two is the practical limit. Tall passengers find their heads brushing against sloping roof.
CARGO ROOM
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4 |
Only small suitcases stand upright in shallow trunk. Fore/aft length limited, and bulky lid hinges can crunch cargo. Parking brake controlled by center-console switch, freeing space for console storage and large armrest.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 5.9 |
LS offers a reasonable array of features, capable road manners, and the least-expensive V8 in the premium midsize class. But sales are slow, reflecting its unexceptional interior decor and relative lack of cachet compared to like-priced rivals.
Total Score
| V6 Premium | V8 Ultimate w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 56 | 58 | 61.6 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Premium Midsize Cars
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