Cars 2 was the first feature-length sequel to Pixar’s Cars. The film was released in 2011, five years after the original Cars introduced Lightning McQueen and Radiator Springs.
The sequel expands the setting beyond the American Southwest. Lightning enters the World Grand Prix, while Mater becomes involved in an international espionage adventure involving secret agents, criminals, and an alternative fuel called Allinol.
Cars 2 differs in emphasis from the first film. The original centers on Lightning’s emotional growth in one small community, whereas the sequel uses a globe-spanning action structure and gives Mater a much larger role. This change led to a different tone and a stronger focus on gadgets, races, and spy-movie conventions.
Pixar later released Cars 3 in 2017. That film returned to Lightning’s racing career and explored his response to a new generation of technologically advanced competitors.