Panasonic lumix g1 camera

I am looking to upgrade to a DSLR camera and have been told to go
for the Panasonic Lumix G1.Is this camera suitable for a SLR beginner?
It is smaller than the standard SLR's which makes it attractive,less bulk to lugg around, but at the same time appears to have most of the features of a standard SLR.
Any thoughts or advice will be welcome.

Dont know a lot about cameras, but am looking to buy a bridge camera myself. I have seen that Sony are launching Sony NEX3 and Sony NEX5 in July. They are supposed to be better than the LumixG1, and are smaller and cheaper. There are reviews on youtube about them if you want to take a look. Would be interested to hear other peoples comments about the best bridge camera to get.

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