I am honestly very impressed with Canon. I teach entry level photography at my city's adult school and I see how many older (and not so tech savvy) people struggle with current DSLRs.
1. Touchscreen: Ok, I know many of you don't like this nor want this feature on your DSLR, but I have to say I LOVE that it is on the T4i. I think it will make changing settings and the whole intimidation of a DSLR far less for less tech savvy individuals. Do I want this on the next 5D/7D/1D? No! But on the entry level cameras it is PERFECT.
2. All Cross Types: Wow Canon, bravo! I tend to have a lot of reservation recommending entry level cameras due to the general lack of cross types (not sure why, maybe my cameras have spoiled me). I love that Canon has taken the bold step of giving the T4i all cross types. Now the camera can af better in low light and track better with the outer points.
3. 5FPS: 5FPS is a huge difference from 3.7 IMO. I think this will help entry level shooters trying to capture action out a lot.
4. Other Thoughts: I am also glad they brought over the new metering and kept the swivel screen. Overall I am impressed at what Canon has released. I can pretty much say Canon has released a no compromise entry level camera which is really impressive. They have not lost sight of the market that actually buys entry level cameras. The only change I would make is actually reduce the resolution (because 18MP on an APS-C sensor is a lot of pixel density and many entry level shooters don't want to drop the money on quality glass to really take advantage of all those pixels).
5. What about the D3200?: What about it? Sure it has more resolution and will prolly have better dynamic range as well as ISO performance, but that isn't everything a camera is about! I actually HATE that the D3200 puts 24MP on an APS-C entry level camera. And Nikon continues to release entry level cameras with purposely withheld features like no built in af motor (for their older lenses), no DoF preview button, no flash control, 4FPS shooting (which is good, but not T4i good), no HSS, no AEB, 1 cross type and no swivel screen. Seriously Nikon? How do you design something AMAZING like the D800 and F-up the D3200 so badly?