Volkswagen gets cold feet over GX3?

Volkswagen is considering a sub-brand to sell its $15,000 GX3 car-motorcycle roadster in the United States, according to a newly published report. Concern over handling, safety, and public reaction prompted Volkswagen to shift from a strategy that would have originally seen the GX3 in regular VW dealerships, reports Automobile magazine. While the GX3 would legally be classified as a motorcycle and significantly safer than a two-wheeler, the possibility of negative headlines still worries VW executives. Thus, the company wants to keep the GX3 at arm's length. There is also debate over whether the GX3 would appeal to Americans. In the words of one skeptical company executive: "It's nice to be able to use the car-pool lane, but it's not so nice to have to wear a helmet, to be exposed to exhaust fumes and flying objects, and to sit so low that towering SUVs and big rigs pose a physical threat. I am not sure if we have thought this one through all the way." VW is widely believed to be working with Lotus on the GX3. See our full report on the 2006 Volkswagen GX3 Concept for more info. The Leftlane Perspective: What good does the GX3 do VW as a 'halo' vehicle if it's not sold as a Volkswagen?