Err - I wasn't spreading fear, uncertainty or doubt!
It's not worth arguing over, but your post was worded in such a way to imply that AF-S was something new and hence a fair amount of attention was needed when selecting a lens.
The fact is that the vast number of Nikkor lenses the average consumer is likely to come across in your average high street shop are going to be AF-S not AF.
the the hi-selling 18-200
Some love it, some hate it. I prefer the 70-200 over the 18-200, but for holiday lightweight backpack moments, the 18-200 is quite handy.
As others have said though, budget priority should go on lenses, not camera.