Here in the Middle East, we've only been getting the ES Series with the 1MZ-FE engine available (i.e. ES 300 and not an ES 330). Whilst, we have an RX 330 equipped with the 3MZ-FE, I can't seem to understand why Lexus won't put the same engine under the hood of an ES Series for our market. On the other hand, as far as the Camry goes, only the 3.0L V6 is available should you opt for a V6. Whilst the 1MZ-FE engine is extremely impressive to say the least, I'm just wondering if there could be a particular reason for the 3MZ-FE being unavailable on the ES and Camry? Marketing ploy perhaps to try and differentiate the RX?

 

It's a regional decision. 3MZ-FE 3.3L is available on North American Camry SE V6 model only, Camry Solara V6 models, Highlander, ES330 and RX330. 1MZ-FE 3.0L is still used on the regular Camry LE and XLE V6 models.

 

I see what you mean, thanks for the response. As far as the Camry in our part of the world goes, we have 4 trim levels (XLi, GLi, Touring and Grande) 2 of which (XLi and GLi) come with a 2.4L in-line 4 engine...which is the 2AZ-FE IIRC. The Touring is the base model equipped with the 3.0L 1MZ-FE and the Grande is the top of the line with the fully loaded options, although it still comes with the 1MZ-FE. So basically, the 3.3L 3MZ-FE is only offered on the RX Series.