Is the Lexus IS 300 a 2JZ?
The short answer: Yes, the original Lexus IS 300 used a 2JZ inline-6 engine, specifically the 2JZ-GE. However, the 2JZ name belongs to a broader family that includes turbocharged variants, which the IS 300 did not use. In later generations, the IS 300 badge in most markets was paired with different engines altogether.
Engine details
To understand what “2JZ” means in relation to the IS 300, it helps to differentiate between the engine variants and the model years.
What the 2JZ-GE is
The 2JZ-GE is a 3.0-liter inline-6 engine produced by Toyota for reliability and smooth power delivery. In the IS 300, it was naturally aspirated, featuring a 24-valve DOHC design. It is part of the 2JZ family but is not the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE used in the Toyota Supra.
Before examining the practical implications, here are the core facts you should know when evaluating an IS 300’s engine.
- Engine code and configuration: 2JZ-GE, 3.0L inline-6
- Induction: Naturally aspirated (not turbocharged)
- Valvetrain: 24-valve DOHC
- Power delivery: Typically around 215–230 horsepower, depending on year and market
- Transmissions offered: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
- Relation to other 2JZ engines: 2JZ-GTE is the turbo variant used in the Supra; IS 300 did not use the turbo version
In summary, the IS 300’s engine is indeed part of the 2JZ family, but it is the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE rather than the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE. This distinction is important for enthusiasts comparing performance and potential modifications.
Generations and market coverage
Vehicle lineups and engine offerings evolved over time. The IS 300 badge appeared in the early 2000s with a specific powertrain, then shifted in later years as Lexus refined the IS lineup.
How the engine and badge changed over time
- First-generation IS 300 (2001–2005 in many markets) used the 2JZ-GE inline-6 as its sole engine option in the United States and many other regions
- Starting mid-2000s, the IS lineup in the United States shifted to IS 250 (2.5L V6) and IS 350 (3.5L V6), moving away from the 2JZ-GE badge in common markets
- Some markets outside North America continued to use different IS naming conventions and engine choices, but the turbocharged 2JZ variant (2JZ-GTE) remained separate from the IS 300 line
For buyers and collectors, this means that a true, early IS 300 is defined by its 2JZ-GE engine, while later iterations labeled “IS 300” in some markets may not share that powertrain. Always verify the engine code on the vehicle’s emission/maintenance documents or by checking the VIN.
Bottom line
The IS 300 name is historically tied to Toyota’s 2JZ-GE engine in the first-generation model, making it a member of the 2JZ family. However, the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE is a different engine family and was not used in the IS 300. In many markets, later IS models adopted other engines entirely, so not every IS 300 in every year uses a 2JZ.
Summary
The original Lexus IS 300 did indeed use a 2JZ engine, specifically the 2JZ-GE, which is the naturally aspirated member of the 2JZ family. The turbocharged 2JZ-GTE, famous from the Toyota Supra, is a different engine. As the IS lineup evolved, later generations largely moved away from the 2JZ-GE, so the “IS 300” badge no longer universally signifies a 2JZ powertrain across all markets and model years.
What engine is in the Lexus IS 300?
The IS 300 features a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine. Maximum power is 245 hp and maximum torque is 350 Nm at 4,400 rpm.
Does the Lexus IS300 have 2JZ?
The IS300 uses the same 2JZ-GE 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve straight-six that propels the bigger Lexus GS300 sedan, an engine that traces its lineage to the old Toyota Supra.
What engine is in the 2004 IS300?
Powertrain and models
| Engine | Lexus | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Power/torque | Model |
| 3.0 L straight-six (2JZ-GE) | 162 kW (217 hp); 295 N⋅m (218 lb⋅ft) at 3,800 rpm | IS 300 SportCross (wagon) |
Which Lexus comes with a 2JZ?
Toyota Aristo / Lexus GS 300
Known informally as the "Gentleman's Supra," the Toyota Aristo (marketed as the Lexus GS in the American and European markets) was available with both the naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions of the 2JZ engine.
