|
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.
|
