Bridging the gap between two of its well-liked models, D60 and D90, Nikon has announced its scheduled consumer DSLR - the Nikon D5000. The all-new entry level Nikon model will cost a reasonable $849.95, including the kit and the 18-55mm VR lens, or $729.95 without them. In addition, Nikon will also offer a two-lens kit - which adds a 55mm to 200mm zoom lens - for $1,100.

Built largely upon the small chassis of the D60 model, the new Nikon D5000 is packed with many of the advanced features of the D90. It has the D90-style HD video capture; an inimitable full 180-degree swivel/tilt functionality; 2.7-inch LCD; 12.3-megapixel; Live View; auto 3D tracking; and the upgraded 11-point auto-focus system.

By far, the high-definition video capability is the most mesmerizing feature that D5000 has borrowed from D90 - the facility allows the new model to record video at 720p, and video can be captured with image stabilization when using a Nikkor lens.

Elaborating on the D5000, Steve B. Heiner, Nikon's senior technical manager said: "The D5000 name is intentionally designed to set the camera apart. It's not necessarily an entry-level DSLR - the price is a bit higher, and the features are more advanced. But even the most beginner photographer can use it and, at the same time, it's also great for an advanced amateur!"