Let's Bid Farewell to Toyota's Mark X
Toyota is saying goodbye, adiós, aloha, arrivederci, ciao, auf wiedersehen, au revoir, bon voyage and sayonara to a nameplate they've had for more than 50 years, and there is a good chance you've never heard of it. Toyota recently announced that they will discontinue their Mark X model, according to a press release from the carmaker's Japanese press site.
At Service King Germantown in Memphis, TN we know that Toyotas are a very popular brand domestically and all over the world, so news about the Mark X is significant.
The Mark X hit the market in a big way back in 1968 as the Mark II, and then did a name change to Mark X 15 years ago. While the name was changed, the basic principle behind the vehicle hasn't. It's always been a high-end luxurious rear wheel drive sedan with a great performance report and top reviews for its class.
The Toyota Mark X looks like a Japanese BMW – or even a Lexus. In Japan, it's positioned as the alternative to the Toyota Camry aimed at buyers who covet a rear wheel drive car, with the main option of all-wheel drive.
While this might be seen as the end of an era, Toyota is probably more committed to rear wheel drive than ever before. Their ever-expanding lineup sports cars will soon include three rear wheel drive models.
While Americans are likely familiar with the Mark X name, they might be familiar with the vehicle itself. That's because, starting back in 1972, it was sold here in the U.S. as the Corona. When the body style changed back in 1977, so did the name – it became the Cressida, and was subsequently sold in this country until 1992. Both vehicles have a dedicated fanbase among fans of nostalgic Japanese cars in the U.S.
To mark the end of a 50-year era, Toyota will sell a limited edition Mark X 250S Final Edition only in Japan. This Final Edition will come equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels, a dark chrome plated front bumper trim, as well as a red and black interior finished in both Alcantara and fine Corinthian leather.
The new Toyota Mark X 250S Final Edition will be offered in 3 cool colors: White Pearl Crystal Shine, Silver Metallic, and Precious Black Pearl, and available in both rear wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions.
Service King Germantown in Memphis, TN 38125
Sources: Reuters and Toyota
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