So a little update on this thread.
After all said and done,
My mother ended up buying the 2018 Audi Q3
She test drove the new XC40 (I liked it, but she didn't want to wait until November, had to pre-order and waitlist)
Went to Infiniti and sales rep said don't bother with the QX50, since there's going to be a new one released very soon.
Went to Lexus, and she did like the new NX300, but was a little pricey and she hated the tracking mouse for the infotainment.
Went to Mercedes, and she took a look at the GLA 250 (more hatchback then CUV), but felt way too cramped even for the driver seat)
I would have taken the Volvo, but whatever. Her car her money. I was only there as an advisor.