Lincoln's rear-drive LS sports sedan smarted a bit in the past from a claim of luxury in the American style, (a rather mixed message for those accustomed to the long-in-the-tooth term "boulevard ride" often associated with cushy domesticated luxury cars). It's not. This luxury auto is squarely aimed at the buyer who wants a tighter and tauter so-called "European" ride, feel, and design -- the primal elements that claim a good share of luxury car intenders.

Based on more aluminum underpinnings that enhance agility, this is Lincoln's spunkiest, most youthful entry, staking a claim for the upwardly mobile and emerging entry lux buyer with sleeker styling and more responsive road manners than other Lincolns are known for. It corners with authority, stops on the proverbial dime and grips with a solid footing and surprising control for the uninitiated. That, in part, is thanks to future tech electronic controls that take over to neutralize severe slip conditions, then (unlike some competitors) return acceleration control to the driver with virtually no delay.

Lincoln puts a minor facelift on the LS for '05 following earlier, more significant upgrades. New fascia and grille treatments are piqued with bright chrome trim. Inside is handsome trim and seating that's sculpted for four but holds five. Power comes from a 3.0 liter, 232 horsepower V-6 or more authoritative 3.9 liter, aluminum head V-8 with a SelectShift auto trans override that can emulate manual. Safety enhancements include an optional side curtain airbag system. Expect prices to start in the $30 K range, then add some sweet incentives.