π Toyota Chaser JZX110 β Full Specs, Pros, and Why Itβs a JDM Sleeper Legend
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 4, 2025
The Toyota Chaser JZX110 might just be the best-kept secret in the JDM world. With its legendary 1JZ engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, and refined styling, it's a perfect mix of performance and practicality. Whether you're into drifting, daily cruising, or building a sleeper sedan, the JZX110 delivers β and it's only getting more desirable. π₯
π Toyota Chaser JZX110 Full Breakdown
Hereβs a full and accurate breakdown of the Toyota Chaser JZX110, including key specs, pros and cons, and why it's a solid (and sometimes underrated) choice for car lovers. π₯
π Overview
- Production Years: 2000β2001
- Chassis Code: JZX110
- Engine Options: 2.5L 1JZ-FSE (NA) / 2.5L 1JZ-GTE (Turbo)
- Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive (FR) or AWD (select trims)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual / 4-speed auto / 5-speed auto
- Body Style: 4-door mid-size sedan
- Platform: Toyota X110 series (successor to JZX100)
βοΈ Engine & Performance
π’ 1JZ-GTE (Turbocharged)
- Type: Inline-6 DOHC, VVT-i
- Power: ~280 PS (276 HP)
- Torque: ~377 Nm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual (R154) / auto
- 0β100 km/h: ~6.0 seconds
- Drivetrain: RWD (some AWD variants exist in Mark II or Verossa)
π΅ 1JZ-FSE (Naturally Aspirated)
- Power: ~200 PS
- Focus: Economy and reliability
- Fuel System: D-4 direct injection
- Pros: Reliable and decent for daily use
- Cons: Lacks the fun of turbocharged driving
π― Key Features
- Multi-link rear suspension for excellent handling
- Sleeker and more refined styling than the JZX100
- Available VVT-i and traction control options
- Sporty trims like the Tourer V with 1JZ-GTE turbo
- Quiet interior and smoother ride quality
- Optional LSD (Limited Slip Differential)
- Safety: Dual airbags, ABS, and stability control in some trims
β Pros of the JZX110
- Legendary Engine: The 1JZ-GTE turbo is strong, tunable, and can handle 400β500 HP with basic mods.
- Rear-Wheel Drive: Great for drifting or spirited drives!
- Modern vs. JZX100: Improved chassis and interior comfort.
- Stealthy Design: Doesnβt scream "performance car" β great for a sleeper build.
- Massive Tuning Support: Huge aftermarket community for parts and upgrades.
- Comfortable Daily: Surprisingly nice as a commuter, especially the NA variant.
- Rare Outside Japan: A unique find in countries like the US, UK, and the Philippines.
β Cons of the JZX110
- Hard to Find: Only produced for around 2 years β less common than the JZX100.
- Limited Manual Models: Most were automatic; manual Tourer V trims are expensive.
- 1JZ-FSE Complexity: The D-4 direct injection system can be tricky to maintain.
- Heavier Build: Slightly more weight = less raw feeling vs. older models.
- Import Limitations: Some countries (like the US) may restrict imports until 2025+.
π οΈ Why Buy a Toyota Chaser JZX110?
- π§ Want a solid and reliable RWD platform with tuning potential
- π§ Need a comfy daily that still performs when pushed
- πΆοΈ Love JDM sedans but want something newer than JZX90 or JZX100
- π― Want a sleeper that can surprise sports cars
- πΈ Cheaper than JZX100 β for now!
π Verdict
The Toyota Chaser JZX110 is an awesome mix of performance, reliability, and low-key design. Itβs the grown-upβs drift car β ideal for someone who loves JDM style but also wants comfort and modern features. π
If you spot a clean turbo manual version, donβt wait β theyβre only going to get more expensive. Even the NA variant offers great value and smooth 1JZ power for daily use or a fun project. ποΈπ¨