In Australia we have a range of budget tools (GMC
http://www.gmcompany.com/ ) designed in Australia, manufactured in China.
They have an interesting range of routers. The one I chose is the 1550 Kit
It comprises the plunge router (1550 W - 2 HP), side fence, template bush and 50 bits all in a custom kit case.
My choice was governed partly by budget (cost was $159 Australian), and partly by this being my first router - a tool that I didn't know how much use it would get.
The router is well made, has 1/4" and 1/2" collets, electronic variable speed, plunges to 42mm and has a rack and pinion depth gauge with micrometer.
Needless to say, I have now found it to be the most versatile tool in my workshop - and a two year guarantee is pretty good too!