What engine is in an ISF?
The Lexus IS F uses a 5.0-liter V8 engine—the 2UR-GSE—producing about 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque.
The IS F, Lexus’s high-performance variant of the IS sedan produced from 2007 to 2012, relies on a dedicated, naturally aspirated V8 to deliver its performance. This article outlines the engine’s specs, technologies, and how it fit into Lexus’ F performance lineup.
Engine specifications
Key technical specifications of the IS F engine include:
- Displacement: 4,968 cc (approximately 5.0 L)
- Configuration: 32-valve DOHC V8
- Engine code: 2UR-GSE
- Power: 416 hp at 6,600 rpm
- Torque: 371 lb-ft (502 Nm) between roughly 5,200 and 6,000 rpm
- Fuel delivery: D-4S dual injection (direct and port) system
- Drivetrain: Front-mid engine, rear-wheel drive
- Transmission (coupled to the engine): 8-speed automatic with sequential shift
These specifications underscore a high-revving, naturally aspirated V8 aimed at delivering strong peak output while maintaining responsive throttle in everyday and spirited driving.
Technology and design features
Notable technologies that support the engine’s performance include:
- D-4S dual fuel injection system combining direct injection with port injection
- Variable valve timing on intake and exhaust cams (VVT-i/VVT-iE) for broad and usable torque
- Lightweight aluminum block and heads to reduce sprung mass
- Sophisticated intake and exhaust paths designed for high-RPM operation and efficient breathing
In practice, these elements helped the IS F deliver a compelling combination of high-rev power, quick throttle response, and a characteristic V8 sound that set it apart in the performance-sedan segment of its era.
Summary
The IS F’s engine is a dedicated 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8 (2UR-GSE) producing about 416 horsepower and 371 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic. With D-4S dual injection, advanced variable timing, and a lightweight aluminum block, it was engineered to deliver high-rev performance and a driver-focused experience within Lexus’ F lineup.
How much horsepower does the ISF 5.0 V8 have?
The ferocious roar of a naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 engine amplified by a stacked quad exhaust. There's no sound quite like it. The IS 500 F SPORT Performance boasts a full 472 horsepower* at 7,100 rpm.
What kind of engine does an ISF have?
The IS F was equipped with a 416 hp (310 kW) V8 engine mated to a sequential shift 8-speed automatic transmission, both of which were specifically developed for the IS F and upcoming F models.
How reliable is the ISF V8?
ISF is simply unrivaled. A naturally aspirated V8 that just rips and you never, I mean ever, need to think about reliability. It's rock solid. It's like having an M car without all the ridiculous issues.
Does the Lexus IS300 have a 2JZ?
Yes, the Lexus IS300 (specifically the first generation, 2001-2005) is powered by the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE engine, a version of the iconic inline-six that was also used in the Toyota Supra. This engine was a key feature for the model, known for its durability and smooth performance, and remains popular with enthusiasts who often swap in the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE engine for more power.
Engine specifications and features
- Engine: The IS300 features the 2JZ-GE, a 3.0-liter, naturally aspirated inline-six engine.
- Power: It produces around 215–217 horsepower and 218 lb-ft of torque.
- Shared heritage: This is the same engine family as the legendary 2JZ-GTE found in the Toyota Supra, though the IS300's version is not turbocharged from the factory.
- Aftermarket support: The 2JZ-GE engine's reputation for being overbuilt and reliable makes it a popular choice for modifications, especially turbocharger swaps.
Engine swaps
- The ability to swap in the more powerful 2JZ-GTE engine is a significant reason for the IS300's popularity in the tuning community, making it a sought-after "sleeper" car.
- Many IS300s in the aftermarket have been modified to include the turbocharged engine, sometimes with significant upgrades to the internal components to handle the extra power.
