What engine IS in the Lexus IS 300h?
The Lexus IS 300h is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine paired with an electric motor as part of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system, delivering a combined output of about 223 horsepower.
Powertrain overview
This section explains the core components that give the IS 300h its hybrid character: the petrol engine, the electric motor, and how they work together through the hybrid system.
Engine details
The IS 300h uses Lexus’s 2AR-FSE 2.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine. It operates on the Atkinson cycle to improve efficiency and features direct fuel injection to optimize combustion. In hybrid mode, the engine can shut off when electrical power suffices, with the engine restarting as needed to recharge the battery or provide propulsion.
Hybrid system and performance
Paired with a synchronous electric motor and a battery pack, the engine and motor coordinate via Lexus Hybrid Drive. The combined power output is listed around 223 horsepower, with the electric motor providing immediate torque at low speeds. The IS 300h uses an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) to blend power from the petrol engine and electric motor smoothly for everyday driving.
Before listing the main specs, note the following core attributes of the powertrain:
- Engine: 2.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine (2AR-FSE)
- Cycle/technology: Atkinson-cycle operation with direct injection
- Hybrid system: Lexus Hybrid Drive combining petrol engine and electric motor
- Transmission: eCVT tailored for hybrid propulsion
- Combined output: ~223 horsepower (167 kW)
These items summarize how the IS 300h achieves its balance of efficiency and performance in daily driving.
Market variations and context
The IS 300h was marketed primarily in Europe, the Middle East, and select other regions as the hybrid variant of the IS lineup in its first-generation form. Specifications are generally consistent across markets, but there can be minor tuning differences by model year or region.
Summary: The Lexus IS 300h uses a 2.5-liter inline-4 petrol engine (2AR-FSE) with Atkinson-cycle operation, paired with an electric motor in Lexus Hybrid Drive, delivering roughly 223 horsepower combined and a smooth, efficient hybrid experience.
