2AZ-FE Engine

Specifications

The Toyota 2AZ-FE engine is a 2,362 cc (2.4-liter) inline-four gasoline engine from Toyota’s AZ family, introduced in the early 2000s as a successor to the 5S-FE. It features an aluminum block with cast-in iron cylinder liners, an aluminum DOHC 16-valve cylinder head, forged steel crankshaft, balance shafts for reduced vibration, electronic throttle control (ETCS-i), and VVT-i on the intake camshaft (with later versions receiving dual VVT-i). The engine has an 88.5 mm bore and 96.0 mm stroke, giving it a long-stroke design that favors mid-range torque. Compression ratios typically range from 9.6:1 to 9.8:1 (higher in some updated variants), producing around 157–170 hp and 162–170 lb-ft of torque depending on tuning and vehicle application. 

It uses sequential multi-port fuel injection and coil-on-plug ignition. The 2AZ-FE was widely installed in vehicles such as the Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, Toyota Highlander, Scion tC, and even some non-Toyota applications like the Pontiac Vibe. While generally regarded as reliable and fuel-efficient, early models were known for potential excessive oil consumption due to piston ring design, an issue Toyota later addressed with updated components. Overall, the 2AZ-FE is valued for durability, smooth operation, and strong low-to-mid-range performance for daily driving and light SUV use.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Engine Variants

2AZ-FE (Standard)

The most common and widely produced version, featuring multi-point fuel injection (MPFI), aluminum block and head, DOHC 16-valve design, and VVT-i on the intake camshaft (later versions received dual VVT-i). Compression ratio typically ranges from 9.6:1 to 9.8:1, delivering balanced power and efficiency. It was used in models such as the Toyota Camry, Toyota RAV4, Toyota Highlander, and Scion tC.

2AZ-FSE (Direct Injection)

Introduced around 2005, this variant features Toyota’s D-4 direct fuel injection system and a higher 11.0:1 compression ratio for improved thermal efficiency and fuel economy. It was mainly available in Japanese and European markets, found in vehicles like the Toyota Avensis. The FSE version focuses more on efficiency and emissions performance rather than outright power gains.

2AZ-FXE (Hybrid)

An Atkinson-cycle variant with a high 12.5:1 compression ratio, optimized for hybrid applications. Instead of maximizing horsepower, it prioritizes fuel efficiency and lower emissions. It was used in the Toyota Camry Hybrid and the Lexus HS 250h, where it works in conjunction with Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system to deliver smooth and economical performance.

Frequently Asked Questions