Taxi drivers in Cuautepec prefer driving Beetles because they are inexpensive and the rear engine provides the necessary power to navigate the steep hills in the area1. Additionally, the cars have a sentimental value and are considered a symbol of tradition, resilience, and community in the neighborhood.
One driver has added a personal touch to his bright blue Beetle by naming it "Gualupita" after his wife, Guadalupe, and adorning the bottom with aluminum flames blasting out from a VW logo.
Volkswagen stopped producing older Beetle models in Mexico in 2003. The Volkswagen Sedán Última Edición, a limited edition model, was introduced to commemorate the end of the production. However, the newer versions of the Beetle continued to be produced until 2019.