In Pixar's Cars 3, who becomes Lightning McQueen's new racing mentor?

In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen's new racing mentor.

Cruz initially works as a trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center, where she uses modern techniques and simulator data. McQueen is frustrated by the facility's approach, but Cruz later becomes an important partner as he prepares to compete with the newer generation.

Her role develops beyond training sessions. Cruz has racing ambitions of her own, and McQueen recognizes that she has both ability and enthusiasm. Their relationship forms the emotional center of the film's transition from one generation of racers to another.

Smokey is a different mentor: he helps McQueen reconnect with Doc Hudson's past and understand how the older champion adapted after his own career changed. Cruz is the character who directly trains McQueen with contemporary equipment and ultimately takes on a major racing role.