Cars was the first Cars feature film released by Pixar.
The film premiered in 2006 and was directed by John Lasseter, with co-direction by Joe Ranft. It introduced Lightning McQueen, Mater, Sally Carrera, Doc Hudson, and the residents of Radiator Springs.
The story follows McQueen after he becomes stranded in the desert town while traveling to a championship race. His forced stay changes his priorities and turns a self-centered racer into someone who values friendship and community.
Cars 2 followed in 2011, shifting toward an international spy adventure, and Cars 3 arrived in 2017 with a more reflective racing story. Planes belongs to the wider Cars-related franchise but was produced by Disneytoon Studios rather than being a Pixar Cars feature.