We've had our Kenmore He3 washer for about three years now and LOVE it. My folks have the same set (including the dryer) and my neighbors have the same set as well. Absolutely love them. Check with your water district--when we bought ours CCWD gave us money back for buying a water-efficient washer. Check with PG&E, too, for rebates for the dryer.
One thing about the front load--I run my white load last (with the bleach) and after I put the whites in the dryer I leave the door open--this has stopped the washer from developing a musty smell. The front door closes so tight that any moisture left in the washer stays there until you use it again and gets to smelling funky.
Have fun! New washers are GREAT!