Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED

Along with the release of the new Nikon D80, Nikon has released a Nikkor lens, the AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6G IF-ED. DPReview reports on the major features:

• Offers a broad 18-135mm focal range (7.5x zoom) for use in a wide variety of situations (equivalent to a 27-202.5mm lens in the 35mm format).
• ED glass and hybrid aspherical lens elements minimize chromatic aberration, astigmatism and other forms of distortion, while ensuring high resolution and contrast
• Incorporates a compact SWM (Silent Wave Motor) for quiet focusing
• Delivers high-level optical performance, specially designed for use with Nikon DX format digital SLRs.
• Employs a seven-blade rounded diaphragm opening that achieves a natural out-of-focus blur.
• Two focus modes, auto[A] and manual [M], with manual override in auto mode.
• Enables focusing from as close as 45cm (17.7 in.) from the subject through the entire focal range
• Internal Focusing (IF) design enables compact size and eliminates front element rotation, enabling the use of circular polarizing filters
• Flower-shaped Lens Hood HB-32 (provided) greatly reduces image degradation from stray light

Ken Rockwell has reviewed the lens and rates it fine, though questions its value for the price its currently selling for. Still, if getting a Nikon body with this as an option for a kit lens instead of their 18-55 or 18-70, the 18-135 is the lens to pick.