Are you in the market for a mid-sized saloon? Do you find the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class too small but have a budget that doesn’t quite stretch to the 5-series and E-Class level? Then perhaps you should consider the Toyota Mark X. The Mark X is a medium sized saloon that has a list of features and options that almost pushes it up into the premium mid-sized saloon segment.
Styling
The vehicle is a real looker with edgy styling featuring swooping lines, integrated tail pipes and a very hip interior. The looks may not be to everyone’s taste but one thing that can be said is that it is distinctive. It successfully manages to portray itself as a sporty yet luxurious offering.
Interior
The Mark X interior is very interesting. It has a very futuristic feel to it with many silver coloured surfaces. It has a beautiful lighting system that illuminates the centre console and the gear lever area as well as the footwells. It is has a very hip ‘Star Trek’ feel to it. Some of the materials quality is not that great and some will find it a little plasticky but it is by no means a terrible place to be. The seats are very comfortable and snug. Most cars come with fabric seats though it is possible to get leather as well.
Engines
The Toyota Mark X comes with a choice of two Dual VVTi engines: A 212 horsepower 2.5 litre V6, and a 253 horsepower 3.0 litre V6. Both versions are available with either rear driven 2WD or 4WD. The 2WD 3.0 vehicles come with tip-tronic 6 speed sequential transmission while both the 2WD and 4WD 2.5 and 3.0 4WD vehicles come with 5 Speed sequential transmission. Both engines are very smooth and pack a good punch when the pedal hits the metal with the 3-litre unit in particular, being very quick.
Handling
The Mark X is a supposed to be a sporty yet comfortable vehicle as such it has a slightly firm suspension. This makes for comfortable cruising on smooth roads with the car firmly on the tarmac even at high speeds. However it can be a bit rough on some of our more rutted tracks.
Summary
The Mark X is a very strong all-rounder. The engine is fantastic, the vehicle is a real looker and the interior is very hip, cool and fresh. It is a decent option for anyone who perhaps finds the C-Class and 3-Series too small and either can’t afford the E-Class and 5 Series or is looking for something a little hipper.
By KARUORO WAITHAKA
