[Brightcolours]

Nah, the xxD line only got that with the 30D (I rechecked with the DPReview spec sheets, just in case my memory of these cameras were deceiving me). The xxxD line also got spot metering a couple of iterations later. The 1xxxD line as yet hasn't. No big deal either way - the larger screen was much more important for me back then.

But now... eh... The new lens looks far more significant than the body.

Woah, you are right (of course). 

And yes, the new lens is the real news.