I bought a top-of-line CX-9 last year also for the family use (2008 Motor Trend SUV of the Year Winner). It's a poor man's SUV compares to your list of SUVs. It’s primary my wife’s car and it has served my family well for almost a year now (with a few gripes here and there).

 

between the options listed i would go with the Benz. Its huge and looks awesome. The X5 is ancient. The Audi is a looker but its still not as roomy as the Benz

 

I share the exact same sentiment. I'm a huge fan of the Q7 but its sleek sloping room compromises space esp in that 3rd row. Its like a bigger sexier RX. The GL is a beast. Great power and decent fuel economy. Drives ridiculously smooth with one of the largest 3rd rows in its segment.

 

hey henry
good to see you here! my family is moving to usa and we need a 7 seater suv
the 3rd row seats will not be used usually, only when necessary.
i am especially interested in the Audi Q7 actually, is there a lot of
reliability issues? i am thinking to get it used, for around $45000.
what is your take?

 

that's awesome andrew, congrats!!

the q7 is freaking nice when it comes to the drive. trust me, i drove the car and i was amazed at the ride, handles great and far better than x5 imho. the 3rd row is ok but like others say, the gl is bigger.

quality and reliability is another hit and miss on the audi (just like bmw). i know q7 owners with no problems on their car, and other owners with problems left and right. getting used can be a real gamble, but yes, prices of used ones are pretty attractive

we are seriously looking at 7 seat suv too. with our baby on the way and my parents visiting, it's either 7 seat suv or two cars. of all the 7 seats so far, i would say q7, gx, lx, and gl are the front runners. here's my personal take on them

q7 - love the drive/ride/interior/styling, 3rd row "reasonable", problem is doubtful reliability on used / after warranty
gx - car interior is nice, exterior avg, 3rd row is ok, but not as much trunk space
lx - top of the line, interior the best hands down. but not sure if i like how the 3rd row folds up. and of course, the car is very big
gl - i need to spend more time to look at this car again, i see more and more of them on the road and size wise it's great. i can't get myself to like the navigation at all though

 

Seats 7 all the time (kids) or in a pinch?

All the time:
LX470 (old style) 2003-2005 - bang for buck, 5-speed AT, ARACO built
Suburban / Yukon Denali - Lacks the brand but are nice SUVs

In a pinch
GX470
MDX