I have a Kenmore front load washer. Love love it! Not the first problem with it-you can open the door and have access to the load after it has begun the cycle. There is a lock on it; but it does unlock. And I can pre-rinse. Not sure about the soak cycle but I've never used these cycles so can't comment on them. But I would recommend a Kenmore front and mine is about 5 years old.
Sandy