considering the AF motor issue... well, then D7000 will be a better choice

Added on May 6, 2012, 8:37 amNo idea about Sony, Panasonic & Fujifilm.
Tested myself XZ-1, P310, G12, S95 and S100.
S100 is around 1000-1200 if i remember correctly, while G12 is around 1400 now.
If you want full control on your pictures, in other words you are going to change setting etc on the camera to get a better picture, go for G12. It is better in terms of control. but it is not really "compact" compared to others.
P310 is a good camera which is similar to S100. pricing is around 1200-1400 (the last time i ask is March)
XZ-1 is also a similar camera. I won't consider S95 if you can afford the 1000+ camera.
So, P310, XZ-1 and S100... 3 of these are all good enough for me to take daily shot, travel shot and etc. So you just go try out and see which camera feels right for you, and which camera output picture is nice from your point of view.
so can i consider G12 if i neglect the size issue??? is it better than the other camera listed??