Magic Kingdom is gearing up for a huge transformation—but don’t expect to see the final product anytime soon. A brand-new land inspired by Planes: Fire & Rescue is on the way, and while Disney fans are understandably excited, it’s clear that this addition isn’t something we’ll be enjoying next year… or the year after that.
In fact, we’re likely looking at 2028 at the absolute earliest before this new Cars-themed area opens its gates.
Big Closures Mark the Beginning
Beginning July 7, a significant section of Magic Kingdom is going behind construction walls. That’s the day after July 6, when Tom Sawyer Island, the Liberty Square Riverboat, and Rivers of America will officially close to make way for this new land. Once that happens, you can expect years of work to follow.
The project centers around Piston Peak National Park, a setting introduced in Planes: Fire & Rescue (2014). While the idea of adding a Cars-adjacent land might immediately make people think of Radiator Springs, this is a completely original concept. The area will feature new rides, original architecture, and detailed national park-style theming.
What’s Coming to the New Land?
From what we’ve heard so far, the new land will include two major attractions: one fast-paced off-road rally ride, and another more laid-back, family-friendly experience. Both will be set in lodge-style buildings, with designs pulled from real American wilderness parks. Think the Rocky Mountains, Wilderness Lodge, and even Grizzly Peak over at Disneyland’s California Adventure.
There’s no blueprint to follow here. Unlike TRON, which was a direct import from Shanghai, Piston Peak will be created from the ground up—which means a much longer development timeline.
Why 2026 Is Off the Table
Let’s be realistic: this project won’t be ready next year. Disney has done quick turnarounds before, especially for re-themed rides or small additions. But this isn’t one of those situations.
This is a full land expansion. It involves tearing down major infrastructure and replacing it with something entirely new. Even if construction starts right on time this July, it would be an absolute miracle to open within two years.
Meanwhile, over at Animal Kingdom, the new Tropical Americas land—which was announced before the Cars project—won’t open until at least 2027. That expansion has fewer demolition hurdles to clear, so it’s safe to say the Magic Kingdom version is lagging behind.
2028 or Later Is a Safer Bet
If we had to place a bet on when this Cars-themed area will open, 2028 seems like the most optimistic scenario. It takes years for Disney to complete new lands, especially ones this detailed. And don’t forget about the potential delays: weather issues, supply chain challenges, construction hiccups—any of those could push this timeline further into 2029 or beyond.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Pandora both took several years to complete. And those had enormous budgets and massive teams behind them. Piston Peak isn’t any smaller in ambition.
Why Disney Needs This Done Fast
Even though it’s going to take time, Disney has a huge incentive to move quickly: competition.
Universal’s Epic Universe is now open and stealing headlines with jaw-dropping lands themed to Nintendo, monsters, dragons, and more. With crowds flocking to that new park, Disney can’t afford to fall too far behind.
This new land—and the rumored Disney Villains land that might follow—are critical responses in the ever-escalating battle between Disney and Universal. But concepts alone won’t keep fans excited. Disney needs real progress.
They pulled off Pandora – The World of Avatar in just three years. If they can keep construction steady and avoid major setbacks, Piston Peak could—possibly—follow a similar path. That’s a big “if,” though.
Enjoy Frontierland While You Can
Once summer hits, the transformation begins. If you’re heading to Magic Kingdom soon, make time for a final stroll through Frontierland as we know it. Ride the Liberty Belle. Cross over to Tom Sawyer Island. Take in the view one more time.
Because soon, that whole section will be under wraps for years. And once it reopens, it’ll look completely different.
