Lexus IS 300 SportCross
The Lexus IS 300 SportCross, produced from 2001 to 2005, was one of those rare vehicles that seemed designed specifically for enthusiasts who insisted they could only have one car. A compact rear-wheel-drive sport wagon powered by a member of the legendary 2JZ engine family, the SportCross offered a combination of attributes that was virtually unique in the marketplace.
The 2JZ-GE 3.0-liter inline-six engine was the naturally aspirated sibling of the legendary 2JZ-GTE that powered the Toyota Supra. Producing 215 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, the engine was silky smooth, remarkably refined, and delivered its power with the linear progression characteristic of the best inline-six engines. The 2JZ's robust bottom end and enormous aftermarket support also made it a popular candidate for forced induction upgrades.
The SportCross body style added genuine wagon versatility to the IS 300's sporting character. The extended roofline and liftback tailgate created a cargo area that could swallow large items that the sedan's trunk could not accommodate. With the rear seats folded, the SportCross offered a flat cargo floor and enough space for sporting equipment, luggage, or whatever else an active lifestyle demanded.
The driving dynamics were virtually identical to the IS 300 sedan's. The double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provided excellent chassis balance and communicative feedback. The near-50:50 weight distribution, combined with the inline-six's low center of gravity, created a car that was genuinely fun to drive on winding roads. The rear-wheel-drive layout provided a natural, adjustable handling balance that front-drive competitors could not replicate.
The sole transmission was a 5-speed automatic — no manual was available for the SportCross, unlike the IS 300 sedan. While this disappointed some enthusiasts, the automatic was well-matched to the engine's character and shifted smoothly in normal driving while responding reasonably well to manual override inputs.
The interior was typical Lexus: well-built, ergonomically sound, and appointed with quality materials. While not as luxurious as larger Lexus models, the IS 300's cabin was a pleasant place to spend time, with comfortable seats, clear instrumentation, and intuitive controls.
The IS 300 SportCross was never a volume seller, and Lexus discontinued it after the 2005 model year with no direct successor. This limited production, combined with the 2JZ engine's legendary status and the SportCross's unique rear-wheel-drive sport wagon positioning, has made surviving examples increasingly sought after by enthusiasts.
The SportCross is rarer than the IS 300 sedan, so finding good examples takes patience. The 2JZ-GE engine is extremely reliable, but check for oil leaks from the valve covers and front main seal, coolant leaks from the thermostat housing, and verify the VVT-i system operates correctly (listen for cold-start rattle). The 5-speed automatic should shift smoothly — harsh shifts may indicate worn fluid or solenoid issues. Inspect the rear cargo area for water intrusion from the hatch seals. Rust is generally not a major concern but check the usual areas (sills, wheel arches) on salt-belt cars. The front lower ball joints are a known wear item. Interior condition is important — the SportCross's practicality means many were used as daily drivers with corresponding wear.
Built at Toyota's Tahara plant. The IS 300 SportCross was based on the Toyota Altezza Gita wagon sold in Japan, rebadged and modified for the US market. The SportCross was sold exclusively in the United States and was available only with the 5-speed automatic transmission. Japanese-market Altezza Gita models were available with the 3S-GE 2.0-liter four-cylinder or the 2JZ-GE six-cylinder, with manual and automatic options.