ExpatFromOK,
Since you stated you love the 30-06, mainly used for elk, don't mind the little extra recoil or slightly longer bolt throw plus have sunk cost in the 30-06, why don't you keep it and rebarrel it with one of your choosing? By time you buy a 308win rifle, plus scope, mounts/base, etc you'll could be $$$ ahead just putting new barrel on your beloved 30-06. Just a thought.
Now if just WANT to buy a 308win, then no excuse or justification needed. Buy the 308win rifle that appeals to you.
I'm actually headed in this direction. I'm looking to move a different rifle and roll the proceeds into a RAR .308 and scope. Perhaps I will bed the .30-06's action and freefloat the barrel myself and see if there is improvement.
Expat