Since Cars first opened in 2006, it earned $461 million worldwide and became a genuine hit that connected with families across North America, including Canada and the United States. Cars 2 arrived years later, expanding the world and pushing the beloved characters into new adventures filled with speed, espionage, and globe-trotting intrigue. The sequel kept the franchise’s signature charm while introducing fresh ideas meant to resonate with audiences on both sides of the border and beyond.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN
That question may have occupied John Lasseter’s mind when he directed Cars 2. The Oscar-winning filmmaker and Pixar’s chief creative force stated in interviews that Pixar only makes a sequel if there is a compelling story idea that differs from the original. With that mindset, Cars 2 set out to be more than a repeat, aiming to offer a distinct, expansive experience while honoring what made the first film special.
GLOBETROTTERS
This installment takes Lightning McQueen and Mater the Tow Truck far from Radiator Springs, embarking on a world-spanning journey. The narrative sweeps through the neon energy of Tokyo, the artistic streets of Paris, the fictional Italian port town of Porto Corso, and the bustling atmosphere of London. The pair enter the first World Grand Prix, a race that places them on a global stage where they collide with some of the world’s fastest cars and most cunning drivers. This international canvas gives the film a broader appeal for North American fans as well as viewers abroad, highlighting diverse cultures and design cues that inform both the look of the cars and the tone of the comedy.
FAST FACTS
– Siddeley, voiced by Jason Isaacs, carries a British secret service emblem bearing the Latin motto, “Honor Courage Horsepower,” signaling a spy-tinged aura that underpins his character. (Production notes)
– Lightning McQueen is memorialized in name to Glenn McQueen, a Pixar animator who contributed to the original Cars, honoring his legacy within the studio family. (Disney/Pixar tribute)
– McQueen’s tires, branded as “Lightyear,” nod to Buzz Lightyear, tying the film to Pixar’s broader sci‑fi heritage and playfully anchoring the character within the studio pantheon. (Character design commentary)
– McQueen’s number, 95, references the year Toy Story debuted in 1995, a thoughtful Easter egg for longtime fans. (Franchise trivia)
– The production team built 145 new character models and 781 variants, the majority of which served as background cars to populate the world. The Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris is CAR-ified with 24 car-goyle sculptures and exhaust-pipe buttresses, adding a playful architectural twist.
– Porto Corsa Marina is designed to resemble a wheel, echoing the town’s maritime identity and automotive spirit.
– London’s clock tower—Big Ben—is reimagined as Big Bentley, a nod to the film’s automotive universe and its sense of whimsy.
NEW WHEELS
While Lightning McQueen and Mater explore new settings, they also encounter a host of fresh characters. Among the 926 new cars introduced, a few stand out for how they shape the World Grand Prix and the espionage-infused storyline.
FINN MCMISSILE
– Voiced by Michael Caine, Finn is a seasoned British intelligence operative whose presence adds a layer of international intrigue. His backstory includes a spy film scene from Cars that was originally cut, and his eventual role provides a sly wink to fans who follow the franchise closely. (Production notes)
HOLLEY SHIFTWELL
Voiced by Emily Mortimer, Holley is a young British agent freshly minted from the secret agent academy. Her gadgetry is as cheeky as it is clever—a pair of retractable wings that enable flight, giving her a distinctive edge in both action and chase sequences. (Voice cast interviews)
UNCLE TOPOLINO
Luigi’s uncle, who inspired Luigi and Guido to open their own tire shop in Radiator Springs, relocates to Porto Corso and quickly becomes a friend to Lightning McQueen. His presence deepens the sense of family and belonging that anchors the movie’s emotional core. (Character notes)
FRANCESCO BERNOULLI
This Italian racer stands as McQueen’s most formidable European rival, bringing a combination of speed and swagger to the track. His confidence and reputation push McQueen to stretch his limits, fostering a dynamic rivalry that fans in both the United States and Canada will remember. (Racing circuit profiles)
CARLA VELOSO
Hailing from Brazil, Carla adds a bold competitive spark to the World Grand Prix field and broadens the geographic tapestry of the race. Her presence elevates the international flavor of the competition and provides a tougher challenge for McQueen. (Character profiles)
RAOUL ÇAROULE
A former French circus performer who now showcases his act on the racetrack, Raoul blends showmanship with surprising skill, delivering entertainment along with pace. (Performance notes)
SHU TODOROKI
This Japanese driver carries a fiery personality inspired by his volcanic upbringing, a vivid dragon motif on his car, and a track presence that makes him a memorable rival on the circuit. (Design notes)