Which car wins the final race in Pixar's Cars 3?

Cruz Ramirez wins the final race in Pixar's Cars 3.

Lightning McQueen initially returns to racing after a new generation of high-tech competitors, led by Jackson Storm, begins dominating the sport. Cruz is introduced as Lightning's trainer, but she is also a talented racer whose confidence has been held back by expectations about her role.

During the final Florida 500, Lightning changes strategy. He sends Cruz onto the track in his place, allowing her to compete directly against Storm. Cruz uses her racing ability and Lightning's guidance to defeat Storm and win the race.

The ending makes Cruz the new Piston Cup champion while Lightning adopts a mentor role similar to Doc Hudson's earlier influence on him. Lightning does not disappear from racing; he continues competing with Cruz as his teammate.