First production pink-colored Beetle is destined to be an instant social media influencer
Volkswagen of America Inc. announced today that the #PinkBeetle will go into production as a 2017 model, having been shown as a concept at the 2015 New York Auto Show. The first vehicle ever to officially be named as its own hashtag, the exclusive run of #PinkBeetle models will be available in coupe and convertible configurations and will go on sale in the Fall. Pricing of this value-oriented limited-edition model will be announced closer to launch.
The 2017 #PinkBeetle will be offered in limited quantities across the United States. With a 1.8-liter turbocharged direct-injection TSI® engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, #PinkBeetle produces 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, and is poised to become an immediate automotive trending topic.
Offered in its own unique shade of Fresh Fuchsia Metallic paint, the special edition Beetle model’s eye-catching paint is contrasted by gloss-black mirror caps and black running boards. Coupes are fitted with 17-inch multi-spoke Linas aluminum-alloy wheels, while #PinkBeetle Convertible models feature the 18-inch five-spoke Twister design. Both coupe and convertible versions have Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights, LED taillamps and LED rear license plate lighting as standard.
Interior design features of the #PinkBeetle include a black dashpad with surrounding pink accent and a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel. The Pink Club cloth seats are reminiscent of the signature plaid inserts of the GTI, replacing the classic design’s red striping with a perfectly-matched pink hue. Standard equipment includes Volkswagen’s MIB II infotainment system, which serves as the foundation for the VW Car-Net® App-Connect suite of features. App-Connect technology enables smartphone integration through three major platforms—Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®—allowing seamless connectivity for compatible devices.
The #PinkBeetle is fitted with Volkswagen’s Composition Media infotainment system that has a 6.3-inch screen with a capacitive touch sensor (similar to smartphone and tablet technology) to enable gesture controls like swiping and pinch-zooming. MIB II also features a proximity sensor, which detects when a hand is nearby and automatically switches its display to allow easier selection of specific features. USB and Bluetooth® connectivity for compatible devices is standard, along with a rearview camera and a 3-month trial of SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. Other standard equipment includes heatable front seats and KESSY® Keyless access with push-button start.