I just had to replace my 16 yr old washer and like others decided not to go for top of the line since they don't last any longer than the middle of the road models. If you go with a front loader make sure the tub size is big enough. Even with a big tub it still uses much less water than the traditional models. I think the energy star info said that I'd spend $11 a year on energy and that's doing eight loads a week. I'm sure my water bill is going to be a lot less as well.
The salesman said that no matter where I purchased the washer I should look into the extended warranty because all the front loaders seem to have problems with the electronic panel. Since I was spending less than $500 on the unit I wasn't going to spend half that price on an extended warranty. He then suggested using my American Express card because they will double the mfg warranty so I'd get two years instead of one. He said most panel issues show up between 12-18 months so I should be good. HTH