TheMercuryNews.com's view

Some guys are never happy.

A few weeks ago, I criticized the design of the Cadillac CTS, that brand’s attempt to produce a European-quality luxury sedan that would turn the heads of those who regularly buy BMW and Mercedes models. “Harsh and unappealing” is how I described it.

Today, it’s time to reconsider the Lincoln LS, a similar attempt by that brand to make a rear-wheel-drive sedan for those with BMW and Mercedes atop their shopping lists.

Bland and ordinary is how I describe the LS exterior, even after some substantial changes for the 2003 model year.

Like I said, complain complain complain.

The LS first arrived in 1999 as a 2000 model. It, along with the Navigator, were the first steps in trying to remake Ford’s upscale American luxury brand into a contender rather than a soft place to land for longtime Ford owners moving into their golden years.

It worked, Lincoln says. About 70 percent of LS buyers and 60 percent of Navigator buyers are new to Lincoln. The average age of buyers of those vehicles is in the early 50s, significantly younger than those in other Lincoln models.

LS sales were strong, at first, reaching 51,039 in 2000. In its first year on the market (1999) as well as the past two years (2001 and 2002), LS sales were right around 39,000.

Now, for 2003, Lincoln has made substantial changes to the LS. Both the 3.0-liter V-6 and 3.9-liter V-8 have been improved and modernized with variable-valve timing and electronic throttle control. Fuel economy is slightly improved, although premium fuel is recommended. Steering, the suspension set-up and tires are better, too.

The parking brake is now electronic — just like in the BMW 7-Series — electronic brake assist aids a driver during panic stops.

Amenities are upgraded, too, as real American burl walnut and satin nickel trim, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats and DVD navigation are available options.

Lincoln also claims some significant changes to the LS’s body, but I just don’t see it. The head lamps, grille, front body panel, mirror, trunk, tail lamps and wheels are new for 2003.

The total package, though, remains understated to the point of being underwhelming. Sure, competitors like the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are closer to Lawrence Welk than Lenny Kravitz, but their badges give them presence that Lincoln’s doesn’t — yet.

(And, while I don’t think it’s aging particularly gracefully, the Jaguar S-Type sedan that shares so many parts with the LS shows that a sexier body easily fits on this platform.)

That said, the LS’s interior is well-done — simple but useful. Steering wheel, floor pedals and seats all adjust — and offer memory settings — to ensure proper comfort. Unlike so many cars where it seems an after-thought, the navigation system’s monitor fit nicely into the dashboard.

The leather seats ar e firm and comfortable, although they still look a bit over-stuffed. Wood and metal trim are applied judiciously.

The 2003 LS is the first car on the market to offer THX sound, a home-theater-quality audio system complete with 10 speakers, four 50-watt amplifiers, two 32-watt subwoofers and customized equalization. As automakers pay more attention to car sound, this one ranks near the top of available offerings. Navigation, THX sound and a six-disc CD changer was a $2,995 option on our test model.

On the road, the LS was good from the start, and remains that way. (I’ve often remarked that a luxury sedan that looks like a Jaguar S-Type and drives like Lincoln LS would be just about perfect.)

The 3.9-liter V-8 makes 280 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. A little softer, perhaps than those well-regarded driving machines from BMW, the LS is far removed from pillowy rides like the Town Car and Continental. No, it’s just about right for someone who wants a roomy five-passenger sedan that’s a blast to drive when you’re the only one in the car.

While the base Lincoln with its 232-horsepower V-6 starts around $32,500 with destination, we drove the top-of-the-line V-8 Premium Sport version. That one, complete with options, had a window sticker that neared $48,000.