Calling all D40 owners...

[Topo]

I would love for anybody to let me know if this is the great camera that I think it is. Sure the reviews say the lack of body focus motor is not good, and there's no top lcd read out, and maybe some other negs, but...many things point to the idea that, for under $600., this is a fantastic choice for me as an upgrade to my old Canon G2, and immersion into the world of dslr.
I just have the feeling that I'm going to get much better results, with the D40, rather than go for the G7. I'm looking for a bit of confirmation on that thought.
thanks for any comments.