Is the Lexus es300 2JZ?
No—the Lexus ES300 did not come with the 2JZ engine family. It was powered by a 3.0-liter V6 (the 1MZ-FE) in its earlier years and later evolved to the ES330 with a 3.3-liter V6 (the 3MZ-FE). The 2JZ engines are associated with other Toyota/Lexus models, such as the IS300, GS300, Aristo, and Supra.
Engine options for the ES300/ES330 lineage
Below are the factory engines that powered the ES300 and its successor, illustrating what was offered in this comfort-focused Lexus lineup. The 2JZ variants do not appear in this ES series.
- 1MZ-FE — 3.0 L V6 (used in ES300/early ES models)
- 3MZ-FE — 3.3 L V6 (used in ES330; successor to the ES300)
These engines are part of Lexus's smooth, reliability-oriented V6 lineup, prioritizing daily comfort and refined performance over the high-revving or turbocharged power characteristics associated with the JZ family.
2JZ engines and their typical applications
The 2JZ engine family is renowned for durability and tuning potential, but it does not appear in the ES300. It powers other Toyota/Lexus performance models, including:
- IS300 — 2JZ-GE (3.0 L inline-6, naturally aspirated)
- GS300 — 2JZ-GE (in certain markets/years)
- Aristo — 2JZ-GTE (turbocharged)
- Supra — 2JZ-GTE (turbocharged)
For enthusiasts seeking the 2JZ's performance legacy, these models are the standard references rather than the ES300 lineup.
Aftermarket considerations
Engine swaps and upgrades are pursued by some enthusiasts, but installing a 2JZ into an ES300 is a complex, costly undertaking that requires extensive modifications to mounts, electronics, transmission compatibility, exhaust, and legal compliance. Factory configurations remain the most practical option for everyday use.
Summary
Bottom line: the Lexus ES300 is not a 2JZ vehicle. It used a 3.0-liter V6 (1MZ-FE) and transitioned to the ES330's 3.3-liter V6 (3MZ-FE) over its production life. If you’re chasing the 2JZ performance legacy, look to models like IS300, GS300, Aristo, or Supra rather than the ES lineup.
What engine is in a Lexus ES300?
The Lexus ES300 primarily used a 3.0L V6 gasoline engine across its production years, which evolved over time to include the 3VZ-FE and later the 1MZ-FE with VVT-i technology. The engine's output increased from around 185 horsepower in earlier models to over 200 horsepower in later generations.
You can watch this video to learn more about the engine of the 1997 Lexus ES300: 49sMotorWeekYouTube · Jan 21, 2024
Engine specifications by model year
- Early models (e.g., 1992-1996): The 3VZ-FE, a 3.0L V6, produced approximately 185 horsepower.
- Mid-generation (e.g., 1997-2001): The 1MZ-FE, a 3.0L V6, was the standard engine, with horsepower increasing to around 200 hp and later 210 hp.
- Late models (e.g., 2002-2003): These models featured a 3.0L V6 1MZ-FE engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), which increased output to 210 horsepower and 220 lb-ft of torque.
Other details
- Fuel type: Gasoline.
- Cylinders: V6.
- Displacement: 3.0L for most models, with a 2.5L option available in some Japanese markets.
- Transmission: The engine was typically paired with a four-speed or five-speed automatic transmission, and occasionally a manual transmission was offered.
- Reliability: The engine is known for its reliability and longevity.
You can watch this video to learn more about the reliability of the Lexus ES300 engine: 53sCar WizardYouTube · May 13, 2025
Does the Lexus ES300 have 2JZ?
Which is the turbo version of course but this is the naturally aspirated 3 liter inline 6 out of the Toyota Supra.
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.
Do SC300 come with 2JZ?
Yes, the Lexus SC300 is factory-equipped with a 2JZ engine, specifically the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE. The SC300's 2JZ-GE is a 3.0L inline-6 engine that was also used in other Lexus models and is related to the more famous turbocharged 2JZ-GTE from the Toyota Supra.
- Engine: The SC300's engine is a 3.0L inline-6, the 2JZ-GE.
- Relationship to Supra: The 2JZ-GE is the non-turbocharged version of the 2JZ-GTE engine made famous in the Toyota Supra.
- Engine availability: The SC300 was equipped with the 2JZ-GE as standard from the factory, unlike the V8-powered SC400.
- Engine swaps: Due to the 2JZ-GE's strong foundation, many owners perform engine swaps, often replacing the stock engine with the more powerful 2JZ-GTE from a Supra for increased performance.
