I tested the vehicles mentioned extensively before deciding to purchase the 4.4i. I would agree with your assessment in general. I think the Japanese still have the best quality (measured in terms of defects). That said, while my "head" kept telling me to buy the MDX, my "heart" kept yelling for the X5. The driving dynamics are not even comparable to the other vehicles. I believe the ML has worked out its quality flaws -- a service guy at MB dealer said 98 and 99 models are highly defective, while 00 and on are fine. However, the ML was ultimately designed as an offroad vehicle softened for on-road use. In contrast, BMW started out designing an on-road vehicle capable of light-duty off roading. I submit this is the better approach for the way most people drive.