In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez becomes Lightning McQueen's trainer after working at the Rust-eze Racing Center.
Cruz is a highly skilled trainer who initially prepares Lightning through simulator sessions and modern fitness exercises. She has racing ability herself, but her ambitions have been limited by assumptions about what role she should play.
Lightning eventually recognizes Cruz's talent and helps her pursue competitive racing. Their relationship reverses the usual mentor pattern: Lightning begins as the experienced champion, while Cruz becomes both his student and an important source of renewed perspective.
Cristela Alonzo voices Cruz Ramirez in the English-language film. Cruz's yellow design and energetic personality make her a visual and narrative contrast to Lightning's red veteran racer.