Volkswagen to Launch 2017 #PinkBeetle

First shown at the 2015 New York Auto Show as a concept, VW believes its "First production pink-colored Beetle is destined to be an instant social media influencer."

2017 Volkswagen #PinkBeetle

With sales currently faltering in the U.S. amid the seemingly endless diesel emissions scandal, Volkswagen appears to be pinning its hopes of resurrection on social media.

Say what?

That's right folks; the German automaker has announced that the newest Beetle model will come with a hashtag as part of its name.

The 2017 #PinkBeetle, first shown as a concept at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, will be going into production as a 2017 model, becoming, in the words of Volkswagen, "The first vehicle ever to officially be named as its own hashtag" that "is poised to become an immediate automotive trending topic."

Whether or not that last statement comes to fruition is open to debate, but at the very least, in a small way, the #PinkBeetle might help lift the company's spirits here. Here are a few details that we know:

Exclusive run of #PinkBeetle models available in both coupe and convertible and will go on sale sometime this Fall
The 2017 #PinkBeetle will be offered in limited quantities across the United States
Power will come from VW's 1.8-liter turbocharged direct-injection TSI engine with 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque
The only transmission will be a six-speed automatic
Offered in a unique shade of Fresh Fuchsia Metallic paint with gloss-black mirror caps and black running boards
Standard Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights
Standard LED taillamps and LED rear license plate lighting
Black dashpad with surrounding pink accent
Standard Volkswagen MIB II infotainment system with VW Car-Net App-Connect and a 6.3-inch screen with a capacitive touch sensor
Leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters
Standard heated front seats and keyless access with push-button start
Pink Club cloth seats reminiscent of GTI signature plaid inserts - replacing the classic design's red striping with a pink hue