I would fire off a note to seeed and ask if they are using the 328 now - I wouldn't be surprised if they were.
I started with a diecimilla(sp) and I was delighted with it. I have a half dozen xduino's now but that original still gets used. I do like the added features of the seeeduino and I think you'd be happy with it even if it's still a 168.
For the record I mostly use the rbbb boards now because they're smaller and less expensive but I would recommend starting with the seeeduino or duemilanova.