As a frequent NWA and YX flier (or RJs on most other airlines), IFE is not a big deal on domestic flights for me. Being in the midwest, never do transcons either, so all that doesn't matter to me.

That said, the A319 is a great aircraft for a few reasons:
1. Row 5 on NWA is separated from F by a curtain, so GREAT legroom!
2. 16 F seats out of a total of 124, compared to 16/148 on A320, or better yet, compared to DL738 16/160 and DL MD90 12/150...leads to much better chances of an upgrade!
3. Cabin is wider than the 737s...feels a bit more spacious I guess, although I'm a fan of 737s in general.
4. A real exit row, compared to the goofy exit row on some 737s

Drawbacks:
1. The old cloth seats on NWA need some attention, at least in Y.
2. 3x3 v. 2x3 on MD8/90.
3. A320 has a little bit better seat pitch at 36F and 31-32Y, while A319 is 35F and 30-32Y. DL MD90 is 37F and 30-32Y, so pretty comparable.

My feelings on this all depend on what aircraft they'd be replacing. If takes over any RJ route, I think it's better. If it took over a 757 with IFE, then no. If it took over an NWA DC9 route, I guess +/-. If it took over a DL MD90 route, I'd say better....