Does the IS 300 have a 2JZ?
The IS 300 did use a 2JZ engine, but only in its early generation. Modern IS 300 models do not rely on the 2JZ family.
Engine history of the Lexus IS 300
To understand whether the IS 300 carries a 2JZ, it helps to trace its powerplants across generations and markets. The 2JZ family is famous from Toyota’s performance line, notably the Supra, but its use in the IS lineup was limited to a specific early period. Below is a concise look at where the 2JZ appeared and where it did not.
First-generation IS 300 (2001–2005)
The original IS 300 introduced in the United States and several other markets used the Toyota 2JZ-GE inline-6 engine. This 3.0-liter six produced a strong, smooth power delivery for a mid-size sport sedan and established the IS 300’s reputation in North America.
The following list highlights the key point for this generation:
- First-generation IS 300 (2001–2005, US/Canada and some markets): powered by the 2JZ-GE inline-6 engine.
Conclusion: In its first generation, the IS 300 did indeed use a 2JZ engine, making it the model most closely associated with the 2JZ within the IS line.
Transition and later IS 300 models
After the first-generation IS 300, Lexus reorganized the lineup. The IS 250 and IS 350 became the mainstay in many markets, with different engine families. In many regions, the IS 300 badge was retained only in name for certain configurations or replaced by other powertrain designations altogether. The traditional 2JZ inline-6 was not carried forward in these later IS 300 models.
Modern IS 300 variants (2014–present in various markets)
In contemporary IS 300 models, you will not find the 2JZ under the hood. Most modern IS 300 versions use a turbocharged four-cylinder or, in some markets, a hybrid setup. Specifically, many current IS 300 or equivalent models use a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (often paired with a responsive automatic transmission). Additionally, hybrid versions exist in the IS lineup that pair a 2.5-liter engine with electric motors, rather than a 2JZ six-cylinder.
- Current IS 300 offspring in several markets typically employ a 2.0L turbo inline-4 engine (not 2JZ).
- Hybrid IS 300h variants use a 2.5L engine paired with electric motors, not a 2JZ.
Conclusion: In today’s IS 300 models, the 2JZ is not used. The 2JZ engine is primarily a relic of the early IS 300 generation and other Toyota performance models.
Summary
The IS 300’s association with the 2JZ is limited to its first generation (2001–2005) in North America and a few markets. Since then, Lexus has shifted the IS lineup to other engine families, including turbocharged four-cylinders and hybrid powertrains. If you’re shopping for an IS 300 today, expect a modern four-cylinder turbo or a hybrid setup, not the 2JZ inline-6.
Which Lexus comes with a 2JZ?
Lexus models that came with a 2JZ engine include the SC 300, GS 300, and IS 300. These cars typically featured the non-turbocharged 2JZ-GE engine, which is known for its reliability and is a popular base for performance modifications.
- Lexus SC 300: This coupe came with the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE, which was also used in the non-turbo Toyota Supra Mk4.
- Lexus GS 300: Available in both the first and second generations, this sedan used the 2JZ-GE engine.
- Lexus IS 300: The IS 300 was equipped with the 2JZ-GE and was the last Lexus model in the US to use the 2JZ engine. The SportCross wagon version was also available with this engine.
Does the GS 300 have a 2JZ?
Yes, the Lexus GS300 has a 2JZ engine, specifically the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE model, not the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE found in the Supra. The 2JZ-GE is known for its reliability and smooth operation, though it is not built for the same level of power as the GTE version.
- Engine type: The GS300 is equipped with the 2JZ-GE engine.
- Performance: This engine is a naturally aspirated (non-turbocharged) straight-six that produces around 227 horsepower.
- Comparison to Supra: The famous turbocharged 2JZ-GTE engine, which is famous for its high-power tuning potential, was never used in the GS300 from the factory. That engine was exclusive to the JDM Aristo in Japan and the Toyota Supra.
- Reliability: The 2JZ-GE is a very durable engine, but the stock automatic transmission in the GS300 is not designed to handle significant power increases.
Does the IS300 have a 2JZ?
Lexus IS 300
When it first hit the road, it came with a four-cylinder engine, but it got an upgrade for the 2000 model year to a 2JZ-GE engine. Unlike other 2JZ engines in Toyotas, the IS engine did not include turbocharging.
Which engine does the IS300 have?
OVERVIEW. The IS 300 is powered by an ultra-smooth 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that delivers 241 horsepower and control without compromise.
