Which GS has the 2JZ?
The Lexus GS300 is the model that uses the 2JZ engine family, specifically the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE. The turbocharged 2JZ-GTE is not used in the GS lineup; it powers the Supra and Aristo in certain markets.
What is the 2JZ engine family?
The 2JZ family is Toyota's 3.0-liter inline-6 engine line, featuring two main variants: the 2JZ-GE (naturally aspirated) and the 2JZ-GTE (turbocharged). These engines are renowned for durability and tunability and appear across several Toyota and Lexus models beyond the Supra.
Two main variants at a glance
Knowing the two variants helps explain where each engine shows up.
- 2JZ-GE — 3.0L naturally aspirated inline-6; used in the GS300, IS300, and other non-turbo Lexus/T Toyota models.
- 2JZ-GTE — twin-turbo 3.0L inline-6; used in high-performance applications such as the Toyota Supra (A80) and the Aristo (JZS161).
In the context of the GS lineup, the turbocharged 2JZ-GTE was never offered, so GS models with a 2JZ powerplant come from the 2JZ-GE variant.
Which Lexus GS models used the 2JZ-GE?
The GS300 variants across generations used the 2JZ-GE. Other GS variants used different engines, including V6 and V8 options in later years.
- GS300 — 2JZ-GE engine (3.0L inline-6) in applicable generations.
Note: The 2JZ-GE is also common in the IS300, while the 2JZ-GTE appears in the Supra and Aristo, not in GS cars.
Related 2JZ-powered vehicles (not GS)
If you’re exploring the 2JZ family beyond the GS, these are the most notable examples in the Toyota/Lexus lineup.
- Toyota Supra (A80) — 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo.
- Toyota Aristo (JZS161) — 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo.
- Lexus IS300 — 2JZ-GE (3.0L) in US-market vehicles.
These examples illustrate how the same engine family appears across different nameplates, with the GS line specifically using the 2JZ-GE in its GS300 form.
Summary
The Lexus GS that uses a 2JZ powerplant is the GS300, which runs the 2JZ-GE. For a turbo 2JZ, look to the Supra or Aristo rather than the GS.
What engine does the GS 300 come with?
The Lexus GS300 is equipped with a three-litre, six cylinder engine which is fitted with continuously variable valve timing and electronic throttle control.
Which GS has 2JZ?
The Lexus GS 300 from 1998 to 2005, which is the second generation of the GS, has the naturally aspirated 2JZ-GE engine. The more powerful, turbocharged 2JZ-GTE engine was never offered in a U.S. production GS, though it can be found in Japanese market Toyota Aristo models and is a popular engine swap for the GS 300.
- GS 300 (1998-2005): Came with the 2JZ-GE engine, a 3.0L inline-six that is naturally aspirated, reliable, and has a strong aftermarket for modifications.
- Turbocharged 2JZ-GTE: This is the turbocharged version made famous in the MK4 Supra and is not a factory option in the U.S. GS models.
- Engine swaps: Enthusiasts frequently swap the 2JZ-GTE engine from the Toyota Aristo into the GS 300 due to the 2JZ-GE's strong block and the availability of the turbo variant.
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
Does the 2002 Lexus GS300 have a 2JZ?
Both the 99 and 02 GS300 should have a 2JZ-GE VVTi unless it's been swapped.
