Was looking at VWVortex today and saw a article about a new direct
injection gasoline engine that is coming out in the Audi line and will be
moved into the VW line.  Heres the specs, 2.0L 4 cyl, 16v, Direct
injection,  130hp at 5700rpm, 144 lb-ft at 3300 rpm.  Heres the best thing,
since it is direct injection it gets 15% beter mpg then the same output
standard style injection engine.  It also puts out less NOx emissions.
Looking at the picture the intake manifold looks like it runs from the
front of the engine down towards the sump, instead of up and over the head.
 This should allow it to fit in the Vanagon without modifing the engine
lid.  Only catch that I see so far is it needs low sulfur gas, which sadly
we don't have yet
Dave K.