In Pixar’s Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen’s new trainer.
Cruz is a yellow sports coupe and a racing trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center. She initially uses simulator technology and modern coaching methods to help McQueen prepare for the next season. McQueen, however, becomes frustrated when a younger generation of racers, led by Jackson Storm, appears faster and more technologically advanced.
After McQueen and Cruz clash, they travel together to learn older racing techniques. Their journey includes training at a demolition derby and visiting the Thomasville Speedway area connected to Doc Hudson’s past. Cruz gradually discovers that she has the speed and instincts to race competitively herself.
By the film’s conclusion, Cruz replaces McQueen as the primary Rust-eze racer, while McQueen adopts Doc’s former role as a mentor. Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz Ramirez.