Way back in March 2014,Disney Pixarannounced that two long-awaited sequels were finally moving forward,Cars 3(July 12, 2025) andThe Incredibles 2(August 15, 2025). Last August, we saw the first poster forCars 3, but we haven’t seen or heard much from this animated sequel since then. While we still don’t know when the first trailer may debut, new concept artwork has arrived offering our first look at the iconic Lightning McQueen (Owen Wilson) and a brand new character named Cruz Ramirez.
USA Todayhas the first look at this artwork, along with details about the story from directorBrian Fee. Cruz Ramirez will serve asLightning McQueen’s new trainer, as he tries to stay competitive with up and coming racers like Jackson Storm, who is said to have “trounced” McQueen in a race. Here’s what directorBrian Feehad to say about this new character Cruz Ramirez.
“Cruz Ramirez is trying to figure out how this old dog can learn some new tricks. Think of where he’d be in his career now in real time. (McQueen) is not an old man, but he’s one of the older cars on the circuit with new rookies coming in. People start to wonder and ask when he might retire.”
WhileOwen Wilsonis coming back to voice Lightning McQueen, the actors who will voice Cruz Ramirez and Jackson Storm have not yet been announced. Thesequelis deep into production but there are still some story points being worked out, as animation is currently under way onkey scenes. Here’s whatBrian Feehad to say about this new upstart Jackson Storm
“Jackson Storm is the face of these rookies who have come onto the scene. And McQueen is in a position where his entire racing generation is being pushed out. But it’s too early to be shown the door right now. Everyone can relate to feeling like someone is at their heels, that they might be a little outdated in something they used to be very good at, feeling an expiration date. And knowing you need someone to help you get a second chance.”
This report reveals that Ramirez is trying to get McQueen to adapt to this new high-tech style of racing, as they prepare for the Florida 500, which is the equivalent of the iconic NASCAR race the Daytona 500.Brian Feewill be making his directorial debut withCars 3, but he is no stranger to this universe, serving as a storyboard animator for bothCarsandCars 2under directorJohn Lasseter. Here’s whatJohn Lasseterhad to say about theCars 3directorBrian Fee.
“Brian was part of the original story team on Cars, so he really knows the DNA.”
CarsandCars 2voice actorsLarry the Cable Guy(Mater),Bonnie Hunt(Sally Carrera} andCheech Marin(Ramone) will reprise their roles inCars 3. The story will be set in America, with the sequel featuring several historical race sites throughout the country. Take a look at these concept art photos below fromCars 3, and stay tuned for more from thisPixar sequel.
