In Pixar’s Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez becomes the new racer representing the Rust-eze team.
Cruz begins the film as a trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center, where she helps athletes prepare with modern technology and specialized exercises. After working with Lightning McQueen, she reveals that she has always wanted to race but lacked the confidence and opportunity to pursue that goal.
McQueen’s decision to support Cruz is central to the film’s conclusion. He recognizes her talent and helps her enter the Piston Cup race, where she ultimately takes over as the Rust-eze team’s active racer. The change allows McQueen to continue racing in a different role as her mentor.
Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo. She is distinct from Sally Carrera, McQueen’s friend and romantic partner, and from Holley Shiftwell, the spy character introduced in Cars 2. Her career transition gives Cars 3 its generational handoff.