Pixar’s 2011 sequel featuring Lightning McQueen and Mater as international spies was titled Cars 2.
Cars 2 follows McQueen as he enters the World Grand Prix, a three-race international competition organized by oil magnate Miles Axlerod. Mater becomes involved in a spy mission after being mistaken for an American agent by British intelligence operative Finn McMissile and analyst Holley Shiftwell.
The film expands the series beyond Radiator Springs, visiting locations inspired by Tokyo, Porto Corsa, and London. Its story combines racing with espionage, secret weapons, and a conspiracy involving an alternative fuel called Allinol. Mater’s accidental observations become important because he notices details that trained spies overlook.
Cars 2 was directed by John Lasseter and Brad Lewis, and it was released in the United States on June 24, 2011. Unlike the first film, which focuses heavily on McQueen’s personal growth in a small town, the sequel emphasizes action, international travel, and Mater’s role. It was also Pixar’s first feature film to receive a theatrical 3D release.