Product review (5 stars): Love The Upper Utensil Tray
Our first d/w was a Maytag that cleaned very well.  Unfortunately, in 2 years time we had to replace the latch handle twice, it was recalled because of a potential fire, and ultimately, the tub warped and we replaced it with this Kitchenaid.

Having done extensive research, there is no one d/w that everyone loves.  That being said, Kitchenaid comes up as one of the brands that most people prefer.  Why not go with a middle level Kitchenaid?  Again, all the research I turned up said that it was necessary to go with the higher end in order to get better quality.  The higher end uses a different drying and washing process than the mid-range.

Another consideration was that only the top two models have the third tray for utensils.  Both my husband and the appliance salesmen minimized the importance of this feature.  Having now had the d/w for a month, it's one of my favorite features.  Because of food allergies and because we homeschool, we run our d/w four times a day.  I need every bit of space available for larger items.  By using the upper utensil draw, I can place more items in the bottom drawer.

As I mentioned, I cook a great deal and use a 12 quart stock pot about once a week.  I was concerned about being able to fit it in this d/w.  Our previous Maytag was a tall tub and had a very large clearance from the bottom rack to the sprayer.  No problem with the Kitchenaid.

There are several different options of cleaning cycles, and I do find myself using them. There's even an option for a shorter wash cycle.  It's just as efficient, just not as energy-conscious.  I haven't used it yet, but am thrilled to know it's available.

As everyone mentions, it's quiet as a whisper.  I can talk on the phone right next to it with no problem.

When researching, I did turn up some concern over the side venting of the door.  Have to say that our install left the vent just outside the cabinetry.  No problems whatsoever.

If you do a great deal of cooking, this is the dishwasher for you!

Update: I wanted to post an update that as time has gone by my love for this dishwasher only continues.  I run it roughly four times a day and have now used the 1 hour wash cycle.  It's been an invaluable time saver.  I've even washed our super large stock pot on the 1 hour cycle and it comes out clean.

My husband had expressed concern over the lack of a food grinder and my habit of not scraping the dishes immaculately before loading them.  However, we've had no problems.  I rarely remove the filter to clean it, and when I do I'm just rinsing it.  It really isn't even necesssary.  Almost a year later, and I still couldn't recommend it more.