Cars 3 introduces Cruz Ramirez as a racing trainer and competitor.
Cruz begins the film as a high-tech trainer at the Rust-eze Racing Center, where she helps Lightning McQueen prepare for competition against Jackson Storm. Although she initially sees herself as a coach rather than a professional racer, her own abilities become increasingly important as the story develops.
McQueen and Cruz train in several different ways, including simulator work and a visit to the historic Thomasville Speedway. Their partnership gradually reveals that Cruz has the speed, judgment, and determination needed to race herself.
The film’s final act changes the expected mentor-student relationship. Cruz takes on a racing role connected with McQueen’s number 95, while McQueen adopts a different role within the team. Cruz is voiced by Cristela Alonzo in the English version and became one of the franchise’s central characters.