Been lurking on this forum for about a year or so since I started looking around for a manual CX-5 (only ever about 40 or so for sale across the country at any given time). I FINALLY got my hands on one about a month ago that was local enough and low miles enough to pull the trigger. So, being my first official post, I’d like to share what I’ve done so far and some of what my plans are going forward!
I’m happy I was able to get a Meteor Gray Mica one since I really wanted to go with a grey/blue color scheme for the aesthetic modifications. In line with that, I ordered a shifter and e-brake boot set from Amazon that are meant for some sort of BMW but they fit PERFECTLY in the CX-5. Also went with this AES knob that’s meant for a Mitsubishi Evo but has the same thread pattern as the CX-5, sits pretty low compared to other aftermarket knobs, and is real carbon fiber so it’s lightweight which actually makes the shifts feel nicer (was thinking it might have the opposite effect but I’m pleasantly surprised it didn’t!)
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Also installed a Sony head unit to add Apple Car Play and get rid of the god-awful OEM unit... Retained the steering wheel controls to keep some factory ease-of-use and added an aftermarket backup camera for good measure.
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My proudest “mod” so far is one that has not yet been installed on the car, and that’s a custom emblem I designed. It combines the Mazda oval with the Mazdaspeed logo. I’m having them printed as dome stickers (think Subura or Ford badges) and honestly can’t wait to get them put on.
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More to come!