Shape Shifters: The Whatchamcallits of the Car World

There was a time when every automotive you'd spot on the American interstate system was easily classified. Car. Truck. Station Wagon. Things were simple.

As car design evolved from chrome and fins to pushing the envelope, though, once conventional shapes and forms began to be pulled, stretched, and squished. While some of these drafting-table experiments have proven to be quite attractive, some turn out looking like they were left in the oven just a bit too long.

Honda Accord Crosstour

What is it? A wagonish utility vehicle based off the popular Accord sedan. A coupe like roofline limits cargo capacity, a design element the company calls "sporty."

You Might Like It If: You want the dependability and quality of a Honda, but want to make sure your neighbors know you're different.

You Wont' Like It If: You don't like to stand out in a crowd.

AN&C Bottom Line: The answer to a question nobody asked, combining the functionality of a coupe and the sporty character of an SUV.

BMW X6

What is it? A "Sport Activity Coupe" based on the mainstream BMW X5 SUV. It doesn't have the cargo capacity of the X5, but it doesn't have the Soccer Mom stigma, either. 

You Might Like It If: Your wife says you can get a BMW, but only if the double stroller fits in the back.

You Wont' Like It If: You don't have a six-figure income to support the payments, or you hate getting bothered by drooling teenage boys while fueling up.

AN&C Bottom Line: A monster-sized M Coupe. And every bit as cool as it sounds.

 Acura ZDX

What is it? A "luxury 4-door sports coupe" according to Acura. Think of it as a Japanese version of the BMW X6, or a modern day AMC Eagle.

You Might Like It If: You want an X6, but your middle-manager salary can't afford it.

You Wont' Like It If: You think the MDX has "exciting" design.

AN&C Bottom Line: An exquisite interior and good powertrain wrapped in a body only a mother could love.

Lincoln MKT

What is it? A full-sized, 7 passenger crossover from Ford's Presidential marquee, based on the same platform as the Ford Flex, Ford Explorer, Ford Taurus, and Lincoln MKS.

You Might Like It If: You want to get noticed while hauling around all your friends, or you work as a Marine Biologist studying Baleen Whales.

You Wont' Like It If: You like your car's grille to be measured in inches, not feet.

AN&C Bottom Line: Lincoln finally takes a stylistic risk, which falls flat on its (huge) face.