Why I Will Never Sell My 2002 Toyota Mark II

‍Welcome to the Money254 Car Series — where we spotlight car owners across Kenya and their experiences behind the wheel. From first-time buyers to seasoned motorists, we dig into the motivations, costs, lessons, and joys of owning different car models in Kenya today.

‍This week, we feature Martin, who shares what it’s like driving a 2002 Toyota Mark II.

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Some cars are just tools, but others become part of the family. Since 2013, my 2002 Toyota Mark II has been exactly that. Purchased for Ksh1.2 million as an upgrade from a Toyota Corolla, it has spent the last eleven years proving that class and mechanical grit can coexist beautifully.

The Perfect Upgrade

When I decided to move on from my Corolla, I knew I wanted to stay within the Toyota family, but I was looking for something that stood out. The Mark II was the immediate answer. It struck me as a "classy machine"—a car that looked sophisticated on the outside but felt like a powerhouse on the road.

The standout feature, however, is its stability. Whether navigating the city or pushing the limits on the open road, the car feels incredibly planted. At high speeds, it maintains a level of composure that gives the driver absolute confidence, a trait that has kept me in love with the vehicle for over a decade.

Also Read: I Regret Buying My 2006 Nissan X-Trail

A Versatile Workhorse

While the Mark II carries an air of elegance, it doesn't shy away from hard work. It serves as my primary vehicle for the daily commute to work, but it doubles as a spacious family car for errands and long-distance adventures.

It has proven its reliability on countless long-haul trips, including journeys to Nakuru and Busia. Despite the distances, the car has never faltered, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for the whole family.

The Reality of Maintenance: "Take Care of It, and It Serves You"

Fuel consumption is a fair trade for the power and size of the car. I typically see around 8.5 km/l in the city, which stretches to a more efficient 12-13 km/l on the highway.

Maintenance has been remarkably consistent. Every five to six months, I invest between Ksh10,000 and Ksh15,000 into a regular service. Over eleven years, the major hurdles have been few: some transmission delays and suspension issues, which are expected for a car that has seen as much road as this one.

The "secret" to its longevity is simple: take good care of it, and it will serve you well. Being a Toyota, sourcing spare parts in Kenya is a breeze. I have never encountered a situation where a part was unavailable, which is one of the greatest peace-of-mind factors of owning this model.

Also read: My 5-Year Journey with a Toyota Wish: A Family Car That Just Works

Minor Drawback

If there is one minor drawback, it’s the ground clearance. The Mark II sits in that middle ground—neither too low nor high enough for serious off-roading. When I head back to the village, I have to be mindful of the terrain, as it isn't built for the rough stuff.

However, this is a small price to pay for a car I truly love. In fact, my commitment to this machine is absolute: If I were to buy a new car tomorrow, I would still keep this one. It isn't just a 2002 Toyota; it's a classy, stable, and reliable companion that has earned its permanent spot in my driveway.

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