Cars 2 was Pixar's first feature-length sequel not counting the Toy Story sequels.
Pixar released Cars 2 in 2011, after Toy Story 2 and Toy Story 3 had already continued that earlier franchise. The distinction reflects Pixar's expansion into sequel-making beyond Toy Story: Cars 2 was the studio's first non-Toy Story follow-up to one of its original feature films.
The sequel changes the series' emphasis from small-town racing and personal growth to international competition and espionage. John Lasseter returned to direct, with Brad Lewis as co-director. Later Pixar sequels included Monsters University, Finding Dory, Incredibles 2, and Cars 3, so Cars 2 marks an important point in the studio's franchise history.