I actually don't think the T3i is much more money than the T2i depending on where you buy it. I've even seen the T2i more expensive than the T3i for some reason in certain places.
The general consensus with that line of cameras is that current owners of T1i/T2i shouldn't bother upgrading. However if I was purchasing a new one I'd go with the T3i.
I can't agree that Nikon is > Canon. Nikon sure has a lot more buttons than Canon though