M1A, SR762, SCAR in that order.
For me the SCAR is just too different. I don't like it. I concede it's a terrific rifle. I just don't like it. The fact it's $2700 isn't helping to change my mind either.
If I was looking for an AR style .308 I would lean heavily towards the SR762. Now they've worked out the bugs all the reports suggest it's a real nice shooter. You can find them for about $1500-1600. Beats the hell out of $2700 for a SCAR.
Now to my personal favorite, the M1A. Simple, accurate, durable, tried and true. Less than $1300 in basic black. About $1400 in wood. Great rifle, great value.
Honorable mention should go to the S&W MP10. I've never shot one but every thing I read about them is good. I've seen them for around $1200-1300. I'm not particularly a S&W fan but this rifle would be on my at least look at it list.
Good luck with your search.