Looks like the new MB GL is pretty similar to the Q7. I'm an Audi fan and have owned 3 "8" series Audi's but the GL looks pretty nice. It's made in the states so I'm not sure about quality but the size and specs. are pretty close to the Q7. Any thoughts about the comparison?

If you are used to the quality in the A8 you won't be satisfied with any MB truck.

The old ML was consistently one of the worst rated SUV's for reliability. I don't think it's improved all that much, and would never risk it on a first-year model.

Audi's are superior vehicles in most head-to-head match-ups.

S500 vs A8
E series vs. new A6 series
E55 vs RS6 (E is faster, but RS is more all-around champ)
C55 vs S4

etc...Audi cleans their clock everytime. Sure, Mercedes makes great cars. But Audi makes even greater cars.

When compared with the GL (a tank!), why will the Q7 be any different? I think the Q is going to be a fantastic SUV. Lot's of utility, but in a (relatively) nimble package.

Yeah, the whole build quality issue is major. It's for my wife and so far she's not loving the look of the Q7. I'm looking forward to seeing it in person, I've heard it looks better in person than in photo's.

it is build in Slovakia, I believe along with the Cayenne and Touareg.

...we've only seen the pix also, and while it has really grown on me (maybe because I spend so much time gazing at it [embarrassed]), she is still dragging her feet. Like you, I'm hoping the Q7 looks a lot better in person, as most who've seen it in the flesh suggest.

the GL is replacing the Galendenwagen, the Q7 is going against the ML, X5, Cayenne, Toureg, etc.. GL competition for size will also be the Q7 to some extent and the Japanese and American behemoths from Cadillac, Lincoln, and Infiniti, oh and Hummer

I believe the Mercedes GL is within 1 inch of the Q7's 200 inch length which is quite a bit longer than the X5, Toureg, etc. Both the Q7 and GL seat 7 and have numerous other similarities. I have not heard of any pricing for the GL but I would think it will be close to the Q7. The GL's Alabama assembly is my biggest concern. The MB Galendwagen is continuing production although it was initially intended to be replaced by the GL.

any German made Audi is garbage because Audi's consistently are at the bottom of all ratings for durability and reliability. Even initial quality. The Q7 will be no exception.

to Volkswagen and builds Touareg's and now Q7's, it also manufactures major components and assemblies for the Cayenne.