If your budget can handle it, the Morris Giant Su-Do-Khoi is great to learn 3d. It hovers easier than any of the .40 size planes. I have tried Wasp, Aeroworks extra 300L, Miss Martha, GeeWhiz Bee.
Others here are speaking highly of the OMP edge 540 profile (Ohio Model Products). there are long threads on this plane, but I have no personal experience.
The Giant S-D-K is 82 inch span for 1.8 inch glow engine. Kit cost is about $235, and the engine is going to run a couple hundred, too. You could use a gas engine, but I used a Moki 180 and was very happy.
IN the .40 size, the Wasp is good. You can build it from plans -- I don't think there is a kit any more.