Welcome aboard!
Brand preference is really as much a personal opinion as anything. We own a Grand Design product and while there have been a few issues, the company in almost all cases I've seen has bent over backwards to satisfy the Customer. But, it is the only brand we've owned. I'd certainly spend a lot of time looking at RV Shows and lots, THEN make sure to peruse the Owners Forums of the brands you are interested in and see what comments real owners have to make.
As for features and benefits, they'll really depend on what type of camping you'll do. Whether you'll dry camp at all, be in winter climates, travel a little or a lot, etc will all make a difference in the specific recommendations you'd get. I would strongly advise that you decide on the rig first, then focus on the truck and make sure you get a big enough vehicle to carry the current load and any future expansion you decide to make.
Based on my observation and experience, the best bet is to get exactly what the wife wants and keep your opinions to yourself. Life seems to run much smoother that way! ;-)
Good luck and have fun!
