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Mazda CX-5 Ultimate Mods & Upgrades

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Table of Contents

Introduction

The Mazda CX-5 has gained a reputation for being a reliable and versatile crossover SUV, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike.

However, for many car enthusiasts, owning a Mazda CX-5 is just the beginning.

The desire to modify and personalise the vehicle to enhance its performance, aesthetics, and functionality is a passion shared by many owners.

From performance-enhancing upgrades to eye-catching exterior changes, these mods will not only make your CX-5 uniquely yours but also improve its overall capabilities and fun factor! 

Before jumping into the best mods available, let’s take a quick look at the different engines and variants available. 

On the engine front, there is both petrol and diesel options. With the petrol’s, there are the option of the 2.0L and 2.5L 4 cylinder engines producing between 187hp and 250hp.

For the diesel lovers, there is a 2.2L option. 

The CX-5 also comes in varying trims including the Sport, Touring, Grand Touring, Signature and more.

Regardless of what trim level and engine you have, you’ll find a host of mods in this article that can completely elevate the car.

Lowering Springs

While some owners opt to adjust their ride height upwards with a lift kit for off roading, many owners opt to lower their CX-5. This is often done for both aesthetic and performance purposes. While lift kits have their purpose, when it comes to visuals – we think a lowered CX-5 can look great!

Lowering springs can give your CX-5 a sportier stance as well as lower the centre of gravity leading reduced body roll and better handling during cornering. 

The best aftermarket options out there for springs are from reputable companies like Eibach and H&R where you get quality without ruining ride comfort.

You can check out some of the options below.

H&R Lowering Springs

CX-5 AWD & FWD Models

Eibach Lowering Springs

CX-5 AWD & FWD Models

Wheel Upgrades & Spacers

Upgrading the wheels on your CX-5 is one of the simplest yet effective ways to transform the look of your car. Whether you are going for a set of black rims to contrast the body or perhaps just looking to upsize your wheels to a larger OEM set – there are endless options!

Wheel spacers offer a range of cosmetic advantages that significantly enhance the overall visuals of your car. By increasing the space between the wheel and the hub, they create a wider stance, giving the vehicle a more aggressive and sportier look. Additionally, they help in achieving a flush fitment, ensuring that the wheels are perfectly aligned with the car’s fender, thereby creating a sleek and seamless profile.

Front Lip/Spliter

Incorporating a front splitter to the Mazda CX-5 significantly enhances its visual appeal, lending a more aggressive and sporty demeanor to the car. By extending the lower edge of the front bumper, the splitter creates a striking contrast with the road surface, giving the impression of a lower and sporty stance.

There are different splitter options out there depending on what you are going for. You can go for splitters from Maxton which seamlessly integrate with the existing bumper and lines, or you can go for a universal aggressive one that really makes a statement with sharp edges.

Universal Front Splitter

Fits the Mazda CX-5

Maxton Front Splitter

Fits the Mazda CX-5

Aftermarket Exhaust

Installing an aftermarket exhaust on the Mazda CX-5 brings about a range of both audible and performance benefits.

Firstly, a well-designed aftermarket exhaust system delivers a more aggressive and sporty exhaust note, adding an exhilarating auditory sensation to every drive.

Beyond the enhanced sound, upgrading to an aftermarket exhaust system can also lead to noticable performance improvements. By facilitating a more efficient flow of exhaust gases, it allows the engine to breathe better, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. This translates to smoother acceleration, improved throttle response, and a more dynamic driving experience.

You have some different aftermarket exhaust options to go for, which will depend on what model and engine your CX-5 has. Some of the popular contenders are Borla, Racing Beat, Corksport and MaxRacing. 

Remap

A remap offers numerous benefits, enhancing overall performance and efficiency. By optimizing the engine control unit (ECU) software, remapping customises the vehicle’s settings to suit the driver’s preferences.

This process leads to improved throttle response, increased horsepower, and torque, allowing for smoother acceleration and a more enjoyable driving experience. Additionally, remapping can enhance fuel efficiency, enabling drivers to save on fuel costs in the long run.

The power gains/economical gains that you get from a remap will depend on what engine your CX-5 has and the health and condition of the car.

For example, on the 2.2L Diesel (172bhp) CX5’s, you can expect power gains over 20% adding over 35hp to your car! Petrol engines don’t seem to yield as impressive percentage returns as the diesel’s when it comes to remaps on the CX-5, although petrol’s can still expect a healthy 10%+ power increase.

Speak to your local tuner to get an idea of expected power gains and always try to get a bespoke remap tailored specifically to your car. This way, you can also choose what you want out of your remap. Is it more torque, smoother power delivery? Or maybe some additional MPG?

Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Let’s face it: no matter how careful you are, your CX-5 is bound to encounter some scratches and swirl marks over time. This is especially true if you frequently drive through areas with debris or country roads.

PPF acts as a barrier between your car’s paint and the elements, absorbing the impact of small rocks and other debris and preventing damage to your Mazda CX-5’s surface.

One of the best things about PPF is how easy it makes maintaining the car’s appearance. Since the film is resistant to dirt and grime, you’ll find that your Mazda CX-5 stays cleaner for longer periods. Additionally, PPF can be easily washed and waxed like the rest of your car, making upkeep a breeze.

Another fantastic benefit is preserving or even increasing your resale value. A well-maintained CX-5 with PPF can command a higher resale price, as potential buyers will appreciate the care you’ve taken to keep the car in excellent condition.

Interior Mods

We’ve covered mods that help increase performance and make your exterior pop, but what about the interior?

Interior mods can make your driving experience so much more pleasurable and are often some of the most affordable mods available.

Let’s take a quick look at some.

Seat Covers

Custom-fit seat covers are a fantastic way to preserve the longevity of your original seats while simultaneously bringing a personalised touch to your CX-5’s interior.

They offer added durability against spills, dirt, and general wear and tear and can be purchased in a variety of different colours and designs to compliment your interior.

All-Weather Floor Mats

Following the theme of preserving and protecting the CX-5’s interior, we have all-weather floor mats.

They provide exceptional protection from the outdoor elements such as dust, debris, rain, or snow.

These are also available in different colours and styles to match whatever style or colour scheme you have going in the interior for a seamless integration. 

Tailored Floor Mats

For the Mazda CX-5

Deluxe Seat Covers

For the Mazda CX-5

Finishing Thoughts

The majority of Mazda CX-5s on the road today can be considered “bog standard”, characterised by their typical factory specifications. 

Modifying your CX-5 is an excellent opportunity to not only stand out from the crowd, but also to express your personal style and passion for the car.

Whether it’s adding custom wheels and tyres, enhancing the exhaust system, or upgrading the interior, there are countless ways to enhance both the looks and performance of the car.

P.S – we also have another great guide on the best accessories for the Mazda CX-5 which you can check out at the link below.

Happy modding!

The Best Accessories For The Mazda CX-5