In Pixar's Cars 3, which actor voices Lightning McQueen's new trainer Cruz Ramirez?

Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz Ramirez, Lightning McQueen's new trainer, in Pixar's Cars 3.

Cruz Ramirez is a yellow sports coupe and a highly trained simulator expert at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She is assigned to help Lightning McQueen prepare for competition against the younger, faster Jackson Storm. At first, she approaches training through data, technology, and controlled exercises rather than the older racer's experience.

As the film develops, Cruz's own history becomes important. She once dreamed of racing but lost confidence after being discouraged by the racing culture around her. Lightning eventually recognizes her ability and helps her pursue a racing opportunity of her own.

Alonzo, an actor and comedian, became the first Latina to lead a Pixar feature when she voiced Cruz in Cars 3. The character's journey parallels Lightning's: both must decide whether racing is only about speed or also about identity, confidence, and choosing a meaningful future.