I had a mess around with one in a store earlier this afternoon. It's nice, really nice. So much lighter and easier to handle. The screen is nicer than that of iPad 2, but very obviously not even close to the Retina display. Next to the iPad 3 (still on display), it noticeably fuzzy. Personally I couldn't live with it when I know it could (and soon will be) quite a lot better.
I do like the device, but it's not for me, not just yet. FF Retina all the way. Man-spec
I totally get what you're saying. If I wasn't commuting then I would have definitely purchased the normal iPad for retina win.
I'm sure I'll upgrade the mini when the next one comes out.