Is a Supra engine a 2JZ?

In short, no. The Supra lineage has used several different engines over the decades, and only the Mk4 Supra is famous for the 2JZ-GTE setup. The modern GR Supra runs on BMW-sourced engines (such as the B58 and, in a newer variant, the B48), while earlier Supras used other Toyota powerplants like the 7M-GTE/7M-GE.

A brief look at the Supra engine history

Engine platforms across generations

The Supra has evolved through multiple generations, reflecting Toyota’s partnerships and market needs. The most celebrated 2JZ-era engine is tied to the Mk4 Supra, but other generations used different turbo and NA inline-sixes or four-cylinder options.

• A70 Celica Supra (1986–1992): 7M-GTE turbocharged inline-6 (with 7M-GE NA variants in some markets).


• A80 Supra (1993–2002): 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-6 (with 2JZ-GE NA variants in some markets).


• GR Supra (2019–present): Modern engines sourced from BMW — primarily a 3.0 L turbo inline-6 (B58), and, in some markets/variants, a 2.0 L turbo inline-4 (B48).

The takeaway is that the 2JZ is a defining engine for the Mk4 era, but it is not the universal engine across all Supras.

Modern powerplants in the GR Supra

In the current generation, Toyota partnered with BMW to supply the main engine options, diverging from the 2JZ lineage and bringing newer turbocharged inline-6 and inline-4 designs.

• 3.0 L turbo inline-6 (BMW B58) — the top-spec option in many markets.


• 2.0 L turbo inline-4 (BMW B48) — a lower-priced variant offered in certain markets.

These modern engines mark a distinct shift from the traditional 2JZ powerplant, even as enthusiasts continue to celebrate the 2JZ-GTE for its performance legacy.

What this means for the original question

The simple answer is that a Supra engine is not inherently a 2JZ. The Mk4 Supra is the well-known exception with the 2JZ-GTE, while other Supras used different Toyota powerplants, and the current GR Supra uses BMW-sourced engines (B58 and B48). The 2JZ remains a cultural icon associated with the Supra name, particularly among tuners and collectors.

Summary: The Supra’s engine story spans multiple generations and partnerships. The 2JZ-GTE is iconic, but it is not the sole engine ever used in a Supra. Today’s GR Supra relies on BMW-sourced powerplants, while earlier generations featured Toyota turbo inline-sixes and NA variants.

Does the Supra have a 2JZ?

Toyota's JZ engines have become iconic, and not just for auto experts. Their high performance, potent acceleration, and use in Toyota's sporty cars, such as the Supra, have helped make the 1JZ and 2JZ engines household names.

Is LS or 2JZ better?

Neither the 2JZ nor the LS is definitively "better"; the choice depends on your goals, budget, and priorities. The LS engine is often favored for its affordability, compact size, and readily available parts, making it a versatile and easy-to-swap choice, especially for street and drifting applications. The 2JZ, while generally more expensive to build, is known for its incredible durability and ability to handle extremely high horsepower levels when modified, making it a favorite for high-power builds. 
This video compares the Toyota 2JZ and Chevy LS engines: 57sClapd OutYouTube · Sep 7, 2020
LS engine

• Pros:
  • Cost and Availability: GM produced millions of LS engines, making them relatively inexpensive and easy to find in junkyards. 
  • Size and Versatility: The compact and lightweight design allows it to fit into a wide range of vehicles, making it a popular swap choice. 
  • Torque: Offers a strong, flat torque curve right out of the box. 
  • Community and Support: A massive aftermarket and community support base means information and parts are readily available. 
• Cons:
  • While durable, a stock LS cannot handle the same extreme levels of boost as a built 2JZ. 

2JZ engine

• Pros:
  • Extreme Power Potential: Renowned for its durability, the 2JZ can handle very high horsepower levels when built, often exceeding what a stock LS block can handle. 
  • High Horsepower Durability: Built 2JZs, especially with iron blocks, can handle significantly more boost and power than their LS counterparts. 
• Cons:
  • Cost: Can be much more expensive to build and modify. 
  • Complexity: Building a 2JZ for high power requires significant modifications and can be more complex. 

How to choose

• For an affordable, versatile, and reliable daily driver or drift car: Choose the LS engine. 
• For a high-horsepower, record-breaking drag racing car: The 2JZ is the better platform, provided you have the budget to build it. 

You can watch this video to see a comparison of both engines: 1mDonutYouTube · May 9, 2020

Why is the 1994 Supra illegal?

The 1994 Toyota Supra is not illegal and is not banned, despite a persistent rumor about it being blacklisted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for long-term reliability issues. While the NHTSA did document a list of faults after testing the Mk4 Supra, this did not lead to a ban, and the car is currently legal to own and import under the 25-year rule.
 
The reality of the "ban"

• Rumor vs. fact: The story of a 1994 Supra ban is a long-standing internet rumor that stems from the NHTSA's testing results. 
• NHTSA testing: The NHTSA did find issues with the model during its testing, but these complaints did not result in a ban. 
• Legal status: There is no public record of the NHTSA banning the car. The 1994 model is legal to own and drive, and importantly, it can be imported into the U.S. because it is over 25 years old. 

Why is the 2JZ so legendary?

Several factors contributed to the legendary status of the 2JZ engine, including its remarkable strength, adaptability, and sheer performance potential. Its role in the Toyota Supra MK4, particularly the twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE variant, made it a staple in the world of high-performance cars.