This I did not expect...
Nikkor updates 18-55 kit lens with VR: Digital Photography Review
Thom says: "There's been a slight change in the optical formula, so we'll have to wait to test it to see if it's as good as the first two versions of that lens. Note that the new version of the lens is a little bigger, 2.5 ounces heavier, and uses a different lens hood than the previous versions." Cost is $199.. and this will be our new low-end kit lens it seems. Available next month..
with two VR lenses under $200... it's nice to see Nikon pushing things on both the consumer and pro end right now. Now if we could just see a VR II lens in the 17-55 2.8 or so market, I'd be happy. I know most people don't need it, but shooting from a moving car makes VR a nice thing to have. Who knows.. I might just buy the new 18-55 for a cheap VR solution.