Today we’re back with the owner’s review of a 2005 Toyota Mark X. Debuting in November 2004; the Mark X was a successor of the Mark II series, which was first introduced in 1968. This particular car is the base model 250G, which originally came with a 4GR 2.5 liter engine producing 212 hp and 260 nm of torque; however, the owner has swapped it with a 2GR 3.5 liter engine. In this video, he shares his ownership experience with the Mark X and briefs us about its specs and features.
Engine Conversion
The 4GR in the 250G already had decent power, but the owner wanted a bit more output. He considered two engines: the 3.0 liter supercharged 3GR or the 3.5 liter 2GR. He opted for the 2GR as the supercharged 3GR was way more expensive and, in his opinion, unsuitable for driving in extremely hot temperatures. Along with the engine, he also installed the transmission and ECU of that 2GR so he doesn’t face any issues in the future.
Fuel Average
The advantage of swapping the whole powertrain bolt-on, including the ECU and transmission, is that all 12 injectors are working. This enables the car to give a fuel average of 8 to 9 km/l within the city which is just a kilometer less than what the owner got from the 4GR. According to the owner, the highway fuel average is 14 km/l, which is impressive.
Traction Control
Being the base variant, this car does not have company-fitted traction control. With this 3.5 liter engine, it may seem that the car may lose control upon acceleration. However, the owner has not had any issues with the car losing traction at any point.
Cosmetic Upgrades
The owner has also worked on Mark X’s cosmetics along with mechanical upgrades. Some of these modifications include a body kit, facelift headlamps, and 18-inch alloys which came in the 300G variant painted in a dark bronze colour. Interior upgrades include an aftermarket flat-bottom steering wheel and carbon-dipped trims.
Maintenance And Spare Parts
As for the periodic maintenance, the owner changes the engine oil and filters every 5000 kilometers. According to him, the maintenance cost is around 10,000 rupees, which is nominal. Spare parts are readily available in local markets, especially genuine used parts. Moreover, aftermarket support is good, too, for modifications.
