Driving Impressions
reviewed by
If you're the type that counts cylinders, the LHS will immediately come up short.
The only engine is a 3.5-liter, 24-valve V6. And indeed, it's no match for the
Northstar V8, or the Ford 4.6-liter V8 that powers the new Lincoln Continental. But
don't sell Chrysler short. At 214-horsepower, the LHS V6 is no wallflower. It's peppy
and responsive enough for all but drivers who like zero-to-60 mph times in the
7-second range. And if fuel economy matters, chalk one up for the LHS. Its V6 is far
more miserly than the V8s offered elsewhere. Particularly at this price.
Under normal driving conditions, you'll find the 4-speed, electronically
controlled automatic transmission is smooth and seamless. But shifts do become a bit
abrupt when you've got the accelerator pedal pressed to the floor.
Like the seats, the LHS tries to find a balance for its ride feel. The solution
may not satisfy everyone, particularly those used to the firmer feel and sharper
response of a BMW, but for most, there's a good compromise between comfort and
handling. There's a bit of body roll in aggressive cornering maneuvers, and we noticed
a bit of squat and dive during hard acceleration and braking.
Steering is light, but direct, and the car tracks precisely where it's aimed.
Braking is adequate, with little fade after repeated hard stops. Still, this is
one area where improvement wouldn't hurt. There is no such thing as excess braking
power.
The LHS offers traction control as an option. It's a low-speed system which means
it will only operate during initial acceleration. Still, it's a useful feature,
especially if you live in snow country.
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