Cars 3 was the first Pixar Cars film to feature Cruz Ramirez as a major character.
Cruz is introduced as a modern trainer assigned to help Lightning McQueen prepare for competition. She initially appears to be supporting Lightning's comeback, but her own racing ability and ambitions become central to the story.
The film shifts attention toward succession and opportunity. Lightning's attempt to defeat Jackson Storm leads him to recognize that Cruz may have the talent and determination to become a top racer herself.
Cars and Cars 2 focus on Lightning, Mater, and their established companions, so Cruz does not appear in those films. Cars 3 was released in 2017 and was directed by Brian Fee, making it the first feature in the franchise to give Cruz a substantial role.