Cars 2 was the first Pixar Cars film set partly outside the United States.
Released in 2011, Cars 2 expands the story into an international spy adventure. Lightning McQueen enters the World Grand Prix, while Mater is mistaken for an American secret agent and becomes involved in an espionage plot. The action travels through Japan, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
Important locations include Tokyo, Porto Corsa, and London. These settings distinguish Cars 2 from the first Cars film, which centers on the fictional American town of Radiator Springs and the Piston Cup.
Cars 2 was directed by John Lasseter and Brad Lewis. It is the second feature film in the franchise and the first Pixar film to receive a 3D release. Although Mater’s spy storyline changes the genre and tone, Lightning, Mater, and several Radiator Springs characters remain central to the film.