Nasser Discovers Missing "Linc"
April, 1998 -- Lincoln's new LS series sport sedan debuted at the New York International Auto Show with minimal fanfare, but the car may be the most significant vehicle in the carmaker's lineup. Jacques A. Nasser, CEO and Chairman of Ford Motor Company, introduced himself and the vehicle by driving it onto the stage, immediately grabbing the attention of the crowd. More than one spectator gasped, "Is that a Lincoln?"
Nasser described the car as possessing "casual understated American refinement." We're inclined to agree. The LS designation is for "Luxury Sport," and the car will be available with either a 3.0-liter V6 or a 3.9-liter V8 engine. The LS6 is available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, and the LS8 comes equipped only with the 5-speed "Selectshift" automatic, which still allows the driver to change gears manually.
The LS series is intended to appeal to "drivers who want an animated luxury sport sedan," Nasser said. It should also appeal to a wider audience than the traditional Lincoln buyer, which is just fine with the folks at Ford. The signature vertical Lincoln chrome grille defines the front end, but unlike other Lincoln products, the LS actually has a sporty appearance. Optional 17" 5-spoke wheels accentuate the sporty look. A rear-wheel drive configuration and a yaw control system means that the LS should suit enthusiastic drivers.
Luxury has not been forgotten amidst all the technical advancements. The LS cars will come with plenty of carpet and leather, dual climate controls, heated seats and an Alpine premium sound system.
While the car is technically a 2000 model year, its launch will occur in early 1999. The Lincoln Navigator was credited with breathing life back into Lincoln dealerships. With the launch of the LS6 and LS8, consumers will have a great reason to come back.
April, 1998 -- Lincoln's new LS series sport sedan debuted at the New York International Auto Show with minimal fanfare, but the car may be the most significant vehicle in the carmaker's lineup. Jacques A. Nasser, CEO and Chairman of Ford Motor Company, introduced himself and the vehicle by driving it onto the stage, immediately grabbing the attention of the crowd. More than one spectator gasped, "Is that a Lincoln?"
Nasser described the car as possessing "casual understated American refinement." We're inclined to agree. The LS designation is for "Luxury Sport," and the car will be available with either a 3.0-liter V6 or a 3.9-liter V8 engine. The LS6 is available with a 5-speed manual or a 5-speed automatic transmission, and the LS8 comes equipped only with the 5-speed "Selectshift" automatic, which still allows the driver to change gears manually.
The LS series is intended to appeal to "drivers who want an animated luxury sport sedan," Nasser said. It should also appeal to a wider audience than the traditional Lincoln buyer, which is just fine with the folks at Ford. The signature vertical Lincoln chrome grille defines the front end, but unlike other Lincoln products, the LS actually has a sporty appearance. Optional 17" 5-spoke wheels accentuate the sporty look. A rear-wheel drive configuration and a yaw control system means that the LS should suit enthusiastic drivers.
Luxury has not been forgotten amidst all the technical advancements. The LS cars will come with plenty of carpet and leather, dual climate controls, heated seats and an Alpine premium sound system.
While the car is technically a 2000 model year, its launch will occur in early 1999. The Lincoln Navigator was credited with breathing life back into Lincoln dealerships. With the launch of the LS6 and LS8, consumers will have a great reason to come back.
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