The engine in an IS 300 depends on the model year and market. The original 2001–2005 IS 300 used a 3.0-liter inline-6 (2JZ-GE); in newer generations the name has been applied to different powertrains, including a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 on many 2021–present models. This article explains the engines across generations and regions.
Engine history by generation
First generation IS 300 (2001–2005)
Overview of the powertrain for the inaugural IS 300, which established the model’s performance character at its launch.
- Engine: 3.0-liter inline-6 (2JZ-GE) with variable valve timing
- Drive: rear-wheel drive
- Transmission options: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
Summary: The first IS 300 relied on the robust 2JZ-GE inline-6, pairing strong low- and mid-range torque with traditional rear-drive dynamics.
Second generation IS (2006–2013): IS 250 and IS 350
With the second generation, Lexus offered two V6-focused versions under the IS 300 umbrella in some markets, signaling a shift in naming and powertrains.
- IS 250: 2.5-liter V6
- IS 350: 3.5-liter V6
- Transmissions: varies by market and trim (both automatic and manual options appeared in some regions)
Summary: This generation moved away from the 3.0-liter inline-6 in the IS 300 toward distinct IS 250 and IS 350 variants, each with its own V6 displacement and transmission choices.
Modern IS 300 (2021–present)
In recent years, Lexus revived the IS 300 name with a new powertrain, reflecting a global shift toward downsized turbocharged engines for efficiency and performance.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (engine family commonly cited as 8AR-FTS)
- Power and torque: around 241 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque (varies by market)
- Transmissions: 8-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive standard, all-wheel drive available in some markets
Summary: The current IS 300 typically uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, paired with an 8-speed automatic and available AWD, marking a distinct departure from the earlier straight-six era.
What to check when evaluating an IS 300
Because the IS 300 name has referred to different engines over its generations, always verify the model year and market specification to confirm the exact powertrain in a given car.
Summary
Across its history, the Lexus IS 300 has represented several engines: the original 3.0-liter inline-6 (2JZ-GE) in the 2001–2005 model, followed by generation-specific V6 variants (IS 250 and IS 350) in the mid-2000s, and a modern return to the name with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 in 2021–present models. The exact motor depends on year and regional market, so always confirm the engine configuration for any specific vehicle.