Cheetah 3D is a simple 3d program capable of producing fabulous rendered images. You can model within Cheetah 3d using its capable subdivision surface modeling tools, or you can import files in a variety of formats. Cheetah 3d offers simple but useful animation tools (including IK and skeletal deformation), and a very good ray-trace renderer.
I use this program almost every day, and I think it's a joy to use. Even a relative novice can produce excellent results in short order, and it has a helpful online community.