Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen's trainee and later takes his racing place in Pixar's Cars 3.
Cruz begins as a trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center, where she uses simulators and modern performance techniques. McQueen initially doubts her abilities and resists training with her, but their relationship changes as they discover that Cruz has always wanted to race herself.
Near the end of the film, McQueen adopts a mentor role and gives Cruz the chance to compete. She races in his place against Jackson Storm and wins, beginning her own career with McQueen's support. This conclusion does not erase McQueen's achievements; it shows him choosing a new role rather than being forced out of racing.
Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo. She is sometimes confused with Sally Carrera, McQueen's friend and romantic partner, but Sally is a Porsche-based character and never becomes his racing trainee.