For example, the 2ZZ-GE can be decoded as being the second generation of the ZZ engine series and features a performance-oriented cylinder head with widely angled valves (G) and electronic fuel injection (E).

It uses MPFI, has VVT-i (1998-99 1ZZ engines don't have VVT-i), and features fracture-split forged powder metal connecting rods, one-piece cast camshafts, and either a cast aluminum intake manifold or a molded plastic intake manifold.

A factory supported bolt-on supercharger kit for the 1ZZ-FE was sold for the 2003–2004 Corolla and Matrix by Toyota Racing Development, and Pontiac Vibe by GM Performance.

The supercharger gives 7.5 pounds per square inch (0.52 bar) of boost, with a 40 horsepower (30 kW; 41 PS) and 38 lb⋅ft (52 N⋅m) of torque increase at the wheels.

Additionally, General Motors announced a voluntary recall of Pontiac Vibes from years 2005 to 2008 for the same issue.

Applications: Built in Japan at the Shimoyama plant in Miyoshi, Aichi, the Japanese 1ZZ-FE is similar to the one used in North America, except that it has larger (32 mm) intake valves and (27.5 mm) exhaust valves with corresponding revisions to the ports, resulting in higher power output compared to the North American 1ZZ-FE.

All of the applications that used the Japan-built engine (including the ones listed below) have their stickers and emission certifications labeled as 1ZZ-FE without the "D" at the end.

Owners often reported needing to add oil between changes, with some engines consuming up to a quart every 1,000 miles.

Though later models received improvements, this issue remains a significant concern for 1ZZ engines of that era.

[9][better source needed] The 2ZZ-GE is a 1.8 L; 109.6 cu in (1,796 cc) version built in Japan, in collaboration with Yamaha Motor Corporation.

The addition of a non-intercooled supercharger to the Elise SC produces 218 hp (163 kW) with a considerable weight saving.

The high-pressure die-cast aluminum alloy engine block of the 2ZZ-GE featured cylinder walls with Metal Matrix Composite (MMC), which is a reinforcement material composed of ceramic parts and fibers.

Unique to the ZZ family, the 2ZZ-GE utilizes a dual camshaft profile system (the "L" in VVTL-i, known by enthusiasts and engineers alike as "lift" similar to Honda's VTEC) to produce the added power without an increase in displacement or forced induction.

The oil pump is the Achilles heel of the 2ZZ, though incidents are rare and usually occur due to fault of the driver.

This did not damage the engine, but would hamper performance as the high output cam profile was unable to properly engage.

The 2004 and newer Matrix and Corolla XRS models were equipped with smog pumps and have an extra hole above each exhaust port in the engine head and manifold where air is injected to achieve complete fuel burning before the exhaust stream reaches the catalyst.