Although it is an incredibly uncommon and exciting vehicle, it drives just as well as the IS sedan and, more importantly, is just as dependable.
As automotive enthusiasts, we often remember vintage vehicles long after the general public has moved on. We enjoy going back in time to uncover all the unusual and fascinating information and learn more about old cars that have all but disappeared with the passage of time.
The challenge with this passion is finding one of these vintage cars to actually buy and own. The cars we want are frequently hard to find, difficult to find components for, unfixable by mechanics, or too expensive due to rarity. Regardless of the motivation, searching for automotive unicorns may be time-consuming. Let me take some of the strain off of you.
Contrary to popular belief, the first-generation Lexus IS (20012005) is a far better vehicle. It was Toyota’s first sincere effort to provide a rival to the long-standing German custom for entry-level sports sedans. It was a rival to the 3-series and C-Class, and in many ways, it was on par with or perhaps superior to both cars in terms of driving dynamics. It had rear-wheel drive, six-cylinder engines, and was available in a variety of body styles, just like the Germans. Regrettably, only one specification was ever a commercial success.
Unfortunately, wagons have struggled to gain traction in North America, Lexus’s largest market, over the past three decades. As a result, there won’t be many wagons available as new cars in 2021. With the “SportCross long-roofed version of the IS 300, of which less than 4,000 units were ever sold, Lexus discovered this the hard way. To put that number into perspective, Lamborghini produced and sold about 14,000 Gallardos over the course of that car’s existence, meaning there are nearly four times as many Lamborghini Gallardos in existence as there are Lexus IS SportCrosses.
Read on to learn if you should buy one, if you should even try to find one, and why it appears to be a Toyota Matrix and a Mazda Proteg 5.
In This Article...
The number of Lexus IS300s is what?
Okay, so maybe 14 is a bit much, but they didn’t sell many: Only 10 Lexus IS300 SportCross cars are presently available for sale on Autotrader, and the one in the above picture has the lowest mileage.
The 2JZ in the Lexus IS300 is from what year?
Every IS300 produced between 1998 and 2003 has a 2JZ motor. This engine is a 2JZ-GE, which is the same as the one in a Toyota Supra. The IS300 has become a favorite among those who enjoy customizing Japanese automobiles because they are renowned for producing a lot of power when modified.
In the IS300, the 2JZ standard engine developed 217 horsepower and 218 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the arrangement, this was mated to either a 5-speed automatic or 5-speed manual transmission. The SportCross wagon was initially solely offered with the automatic, but over time, third-party retailers have started to replace them with the manual.
Due to its Supra-like engine, available manual transmission, and rear-wheel drive, the first generation IS300 is a renowned little sports sedan. These elements work together to make the IS300 a fantastic, entertaining sports sedan.
When was the IS300 manufactured?
Lexus launched the 2001 IS 300 with the storied 2JZ-GE inline-six, a 3.0-liter, naturally-aspirated version of the engine made famous in the Mk IV Supra, knowing that a 153-horsepower inline-six wouldn’t cut it for American customers.
The 3.0 liter engine in the IS was rated at 215 horsepower, which was 22 more than the 328i but five less than the version in the larger GS 300. However, the six-speed manual transmission used in IS 300s sold outside of the United States was not offered at launch. The vehicle was instead equipped by Lexus with a five-speed automatic. The 2002 model year saw the introduction of a five-speed manual, nevertheless. After a year with a car from the initial model year, we discovered the IS to be a joy to drive even without the stick shift. However, it was difficult to read the recognizable “choreograph” instruments.
Was a 2JZ included with the IS300?
A 3.0 liter, six-cylinder engine known as the 2JZ-GE powers the Lexus IS300. Fans of the MkIV Supra ought to be acquainted with its engine code. Although it had a few internal tweaks and no turbos, the engine was fundamentally the same as the one in the Toyota Supra. An engine that, incidentally, the JDM Altezza never provided.
The Lexus IS300 produces 215 horsepower and 218 lb-ft less power than the Supra without turbos (alone). That is, at least, the stock production. Owners frequently install Supra turbos on their Lexus IS300s. According to Jalopnik, the 2JZ’s iconic status is directly related to how overbuilt it was. The Bubble Era, which gave the world the Skyline GT-R and Autozam AZ-1, came to a close at this time. According to Jalopnik, owners could theoretically triple the IS300’s output without any problems with the right tune.
Additionally, according to MT, there were the TRD-tuned Lexus IS300 L-Tuned versions. Stage I automobiles have a body kit, fog lamps, and an 8 horsepower stainless steel exhaust. New springs, bigger anti-roll bars, cast-aluminum wheels, and Michelin Pilot Sport tires are added to Stage II versions. They ride one lower as well. Additionally, a limited-slip rear differential was a choice.
What Lexus model has a 1JZ?
This 2002 Lexus IS300 had mismatched bodywork, some off-road scars, and an ambitious new owner with a head full of ideas before it was powered by Toyota’s venerable workhorse 1JZ and before it appeared tidy enough to win a few awards at a local car show.
The Lexus IS300 is swift.
A great accomplishment is the 143 mph top speed of the 2021 Lexus IS 300. Although motorists should travel at safe speeds when using public roads, this peak speed number is sure to delight driving aficionados.
What makes the Lexus IS300 so well-liked?
The Lexus IS300 is regarded by Toyota fans as one of the most dependable vehicles produced by the company. It had a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 217 horsepower from 1998 to 2005. Additionally, it could feature an automatic or manual transmission. Although it weighed 3,255 pounds, it offered opulent comfort and athletic performance. Its engine was a naturally aspirated 2JZ GE Supra Mark IV engine that was overbuilt and tested and true. Although there aren’t many issues with this car, those that do warrant addressed.
How durable is the Lexus IS300?
The Lexus IS is a luxurious sedan that is incredibly dependable and can travel, on average, between 250,000 and 300,000 miles with regular maintenance and cautious driving.
Exactly which Lexus is the fastest?
Discover the most potent car that Lexus has ever produced. The Lexus GS F flawlessly mixes power, style, and grace into one ideal performance vehicle, with an amazing 467 horsepower and top track speed of 168 MPH.
Lexus IS300s excellent or bad?
Although the IS 300 isn’t at the top of the list of small luxury sedans, it does come with a ton of standard amenities, such as a number of cutting-edge driver assistance systems, and a reasonably cheap starting price. The IS 300 is incredibly comfortable, as with the majority of Lexus goods, but it also drives well when spirited.
The cost of a 2JZ engine
A race-ready 2JZ-GE engine typically costs $50,000 to construct. This special engine is utilized just in racing and is capable of producing 500 horsepower.
All of this is to suggest that these are pricey engines designed for race vehicles rather than the recreational driver.
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Is there a station wagon made by Lexus?
No, Lexus does not currently offer any station wagons in its model lineup. The Lexus IS300 SportCross, which was built from 2002 to 2005, was the only Lexus station wagon ever made.
Whats the difference between a station wagon and a hatchback?
How precisely can a hatchback and a station wagon be distinguished? One strategy is to search for the recognizable indicators you can see on any station wagon:
Three-box sedans have independent engines, passenger seating, and storage spaces. On the other hand, hatchbacks and station wagons have a two-box layout where storage and seating are merged.
While station wagons tend to have a boxy back end with greater room for storage and occasionally a third row of seating, hatchbacks often favor style over storage with a smoother rear slope and a shorter body.
Is there a hatchback Lexus?
Since it was first introduced as a 2001 model, the Lexus IS Hatchback has advanced significantly. There were a good number of improvements made to the 2019 model. The software changes for cars with rear-wheel drive were among the most notable. The engine response is enhanced by the new technology. As a member of the third generation, which began in 2013, the 2019 required a few fresh modifications. A new improved LED headlamp option and voice controls for Amazon Alexa were also added to the Lexus IS 300 for 2019. The addition of more features than the competitors for the money is one of the 2019’s standout characteristics. As per usual, the cabin has excellent insulation to block out road noise so you can fully appreciate the entertainment system. Due to the excellent suspension system, this model, like its predecessors, produced a pleasant ride even on uneven roads. The back seat was a little bit more cramped than most competitors, despite the hatchback design making it easier to access the cargo area. Although nothing exceptional, the acceleration was sufficient.