Which car is using a 2JZ engine?

The 2JZ engine family—made famous by Toyota—spans two main variants: the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE and the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE. The most iconic example is the Toyota Supra with the 2JZ-GTE, but several other models use either variant.

In this piece, we outline notable cars that used each variant, illustrating how the 2JZ architecture has powered everything from legendary sports coupes to refined sedans. The engine’s reputation rests on durability, smooth power delivery, and strong aftermarket potential, which has kept it relevant even years after its production.

2JZ engine variants

Two primary flavors define the 2JZ lineup. The turbocharged 2JZ-GTE delivered high peak performance, while the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE offered a refined, reliable baseline for luxury and performance models. Here are representative cars for each variant.

2JZ-GTE turbocharged models

These models were built around the turbocharged twin-turbo variant, renowned for its high tuning ceiling and strong performance credentials.

• Toyota Supra (A80, MK4) — 2JZ-GTE


• Toyota Aristo (V300, JZS161) — 2JZ-GTE

The 2JZ-GTE powered Toyota’s late-90s turbo flagship and a Japan-market performance sedan, cementing the engine’s place in automotive culture and enthusiast circles.

2JZ-GE naturally aspirated models

These models use the 2JZ-GE variant, a natural fit for daily driving and luxury applications while still offering solid performance potential.

• Lexus IS300 (GSE20) — 2JZ-GE


• Lexus GS300 — 2JZ-GE

The 2JZ-GE variants helped power luxury sedans with smooth six-cylinder performance, balancing refinement with the robust durability the 2JZ family is known for.

Summary

The 2JZ engine family spans turbocharged and naturally aspirated configurations. The most famous application is the 2JZ-GTE in the Toyota Supra, with the Aristo also adopting the turbo variant in certain trims. The 2JZ-GE variants power notable luxury sedans such as the Lexus IS300 and GS300, demonstrating the engine’s versatility beyond its sports-car heritage.

Which car has a 2JZ engine?

Cars with a 2JZ engine include the Toyota Supra and Lexus SC300, which are arguably the most famous. Other vehicles that came with a 2JZ are the Lexus GS300/Toyota Aristo, Lexus IS300/Toyota Altezza, and various JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) models like the Toyota Crown, Chaser, Mark II, and Cresta. 
You can watch this video to learn about the history and features of the 2JZ engine: 1mPartsMan ProYouTube · Nov 1, 2025
Toyota

• Toyota Supra: The Mk4 Supra is famous for its twin-turbo 2JZ-GTE engine. 
• Toyota Aristo: Also known as the Lexus GS300 in some markets, it was available with both naturally aspirated and twin-turbo versions of the 2JZ. 
• Toyota Crown/Crown Majesta: These luxury models were offered with the 2JZ engine. 
• Toyota Chaser/Mark II/Cresta: A range of popular JDM sedans equipped with various versions of the 2JZ. 
• Toyota Progrès/Brevis: These were other luxury sedans that featured the 2JZ engine. 
• Toyota Soarer: The JDM equivalent of the Lexus SC300. 

Lexus

• Lexus SC300: This grand tourer came equipped with the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE engine. 
• Lexus GS300: The same car as the Toyota Aristo, offering the 2JZ-GE and the more powerful 2JZ-GTE in its V300 trim. 
• Lexus IS300: The first generation IS300 was powered by the 2JZ-GE engine. 

You can watch this video to see some of the most legendary cars with 2JZ engines: 49sCar Talk ChroniclesYouTube · Aug 16, 2025

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

Does Toyota still make 2JZ engines?

No, Toyota stopped producing the original 2JZ engines for new vehicles in 2005-2007, but new versions of the engine and its components are still available from Toyota and aftermarket companies. While new vehicles like the current Supra use BMW engines, the 2JZ is still very popular for performance builds and can be purchased in various forms. Toyota is even developing a new line of four-cylinder engines it hopes will be a modern successor to the 2JZ, notes CarBuzz and The Drive.
 

• Original production ended: The last original 2JZ engines were produced around 2005-2007 and were replaced by other engines in Toyota's lineup, such as the current Supra's BMW-sourced B58 engine. 
• New components and engines are available: You can still buy brand-new 2JZ engine components, including blocks and heads, from Toyota, though they are for the newer VVTi versions. Aftermarket companies also produce brand-new 2JZ blocks and heads for those who want to build a high-performance engine. 
• Successor engines are in development: Toyota is working on a new line of high-performance four-cylinder engines that engineers hope will surpass the 2JZ in performance and reputation, notes CarBuzz and The Drive. 

Which Toyota Crown has 2JZ?

1997 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon G
Well, this 1997 Toyota Crown Royal Saloon G might just be the ride for you. Don't be fooled by those boxy dimensions, 'cause there's a 2JZ lurking under the hood. This baby's got a gangster stance, sitting lower on coilovers and rocking a set of Zauber rims. It's cooler than a mafia boss in a silk suit.