Cars that defy conventional classification often find trouble gaining ground. Perhaps a perfect example of this is the Ford Taurus X, which Ford has recently decided to remove from its lineup. While it may be a setback for ambiguous body styles, Toyota has released the 2009 Venza to significant praise, despite its ambiguous part-crossover, part-station wagon look.

Both the Toyota Venza and the similar Ford Taurus X can be had with powerful 3.5-liter V6 engines, and both can be had with a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the Toyota and the Ford are also priced around the same, excluding lucrative incentives currently available at Toyota dealers Olympia and at other showrooms.

In addition to similar pricing and engines, the Toyota Venza offers either front wheel drive, or all-wheel drive – same as the Ford. Even the overall dimensions are similar, although the Ford is about 11 inches longer in overall length.

The Toyota Venza is an interesting vehicle introduction from Toyota, as the Ford Taurus X has been available for a while now, and has faced dismal sales. Even pre-owned Taurus X’s are facing slowing sales among used cars Kansas City dealers. Buyers already have plenty of options when it comes to crossovers, and can even find station wagons, but do Spokane Toyota buyers really want another vehicle that blends the two? With the fusion of the body styles, it seems as though automakers these days are scared to develop station wagons, or at least are scared to refer to vehicles such as the Venza and Taurus X as station wagons.

While the Toyota Venza has been well-received, time will tell whether it will ultimately sell. While Albuquerque Toyota dealers are certainly excited to see fresh new styling, the Ford Taurus X faced dismal sales even despite its distinctiveness. Perhaps the fact that the vehicle blends the benefits of both the Camry and the Highlander will help give the Venza an image that will be much more appealing to that of its short-lived domestic competition. With the Taurus X out of the way, the Venza can now set its sights on the Edge and the Nissan Murano.

* * *

Look for a full Toyota Venza review right here shortly.