I researched the front loaders, the top loaders, etc. After my 1994 Sears washer destroyed itself, finally.

Here is what I found out:

The top load agitator models are being phased out.
this is bad because the new/replacement top loaders with just a spin system really do not get clothes clean,
and some people are reporting they do not even get some of the load wet!
I managed to get an agitator model, and the local Sears guy told me about the phase out.
And by the way, Sears is not going to be around much longer, either.

Front loaders:
They can be good if:
you have a VERY solid floor, like a basement, because they vibrate a lot.
Mold is a big problem, but can be avoided:
If you keep the door gasket clean and wiped out so water does not collect and cause mold.
And if you set it on the "drain" option occasionally to makes sure no water collects.
Door has to be left open after a load so the tub can dry.
Downside is capacity..dunno how many tub sizes are available.
Front loaders are expensive.

That's the gist of what I found out.

I would definitely watch out for the mold, if you do end up for a front loader or any washer for that matter that ends up vibrating make sure that it doesn't vibrate enough to pull it's hose out of the wall, I learned that one the hard way.

Personally, the more energy efficient the dryer is the happier I am, dryer energy is crazy expensive. Also, I prefer washers that use as little water as possible and still do their job. (I haven't found the perfect one yet, but I'm sure it's out there)

I've had nothing but trouble with mine. We had the appliance guy teach us how to now do the regular maintenance which requires the lower front of the machine be opened and exposed and laying on the floor to remove and clean a filter. It's a major pain in the ass. We also have had problems with the boot which is the seal around the door and it has flown open in the past and seeped water all over the place. With what I paid on repairs I could have had a new machine. I'm waiting for it to break one last time and getting something else. The other major pain is that they recommend you have matching machines for safe stacking which means I'll have to replace a perfectly fine dryer. I have to stack as I don't have the room for a side by side. If I had a choice I would never get another front loader. I'd get one of the top loaders without the center agitator.

and dryer, especially if you can't vent directly outside.

Then again, we're not picky. Bought it used from a neighbor and it's been fine.

Front loaders don't chew your clothes up and we only use a couple of spoonfulls of soap. We don't use the special soap we're supposed to. Regular Costco laundry soap is fine.