My mom has an awesome sewing machine...I'm not sure what brand it is though, and it's at least 20 years old (see above speech about "they don't make things like they used to.") The neat thing about it is that it fits in a suitcase-like case with a handle when you aren't using it, so it's portable (sorta, it's like 30 pounds haha).
I would personally go for one that is simple, and preferably doesn't have all the pre-programmed stuff in it (other than different types of stitches, of course).
Actually, have you considered getting a used sewing machine from somewhere (flea market, auction, thrift store, etc)...? You might be able to find a neat/durable/"they made it like they used to" one that way, and you won't be shelling out full price.
*le sigh* way to make me want to sew again, by the way.

I made my boyfriend a teddy bear before he went to Japan for a semester, but haven't made anything since.