Sport model factory radio option

[daustin]

So, some of us ended up with the sport model... which kinda blows... but I didn't want a slushbox transmission and I wanted the CX-5. So the deal has been done. And the taste is still bitter in my mouth about how there were literally NO factory options available for the 6MT models.

At this point, I really am not a fan of aftermarket radios. I just don't like them. I avoid them wherever possible. It's just a preference thing. I like everything to look original in my car unless it's been gutted and race prepped.

With that said, I don't seem to be coming across anyone who's picked up someone's junked touch screen head unit (from a non-BOSE model, if it matters) and swapped it into one of the unfortunate souls with one of these super basic units. I've already added in the dash tweeters because that was a huge upgrade on sound from the original four door speaker configuration. This is my next step.

Any thoughts? Anyone want to sell me the unit they hate so much for cheap so I can test and report?

 

[quicksilver1663]

Are you referring to the 16's?

 

[RG_Flyer]

So, some of us ended up with the sport model... which kinda blows... but I didn't want a slushbox transmission and I wanted the CX-5. So the deal has been done. And the taste is still bitter in my mouth about how there were literally NO factory options available for the 6MT models.
?

I was waiting on the '16s to see if this was addressed. It is disappointing to know that the Canadian model is available with better audio and more colors/options with the manual transmission.
I am looking at the Renegade and HR-V to see what they end up offering. I really preferred the size of the CX-5, but I will not drive a slushbox either. And I don't want anyone telling me that if I drive one it will change my mind.

 

[daustin]

No, I am referring to the 2013-2015 models. In the US, the 2013-2015 models with manual transmissions are limited to the CX-5 sport model. No factory options available and you can choose between silver, dark grey, and black. That's it. Hence my frustration. Basic everything, no Bluetooth, no fog lights... nothing.

So far I have purchased and installed the factory fog lights and the dash tweeters to at least have those options and the next one I want to tackle is the radio unit.

 

[RG_Flyer]

No, I am referring to the 2013-2015 models. In the US, the 2013-2015 models with manual transmissions are limited to the CX-5 sport model. No factory options available and you can choose between silver, dark grey, and black. That's it. Hence my frustration. Basic everything, no Bluetooth, no fog lights... nothing.

So far I have purchased and installed the factory fog lights and the dash tweeters to at least have those options and the next one I want to tackle is the radio unit.

I am in the same boat and will likely buy a '15 Sport MT-6. Please let us know how the OEM headunit swap goes, I am very interested.

 

[thedaddyb]

Unfortunately I'm not so sure it will be as simple as a plug and play swap. The main radio wiring harness may be the same between the base radio and the non-Bose infotainment. But there are additional harnesses and units in those vehicles that won't be in the base model. For instance, the usb runs to the bluetooth module that is mounted above the glove box which then runs to the radio. Additionally the units are prepped for nav with the antenna already mounted with the necessary wiring ran down to behind the cubby on the driver side dash. Not to mention there probably isn't a mic in your car either.

To save money on the vehicle wiring harness, Mazda may have prepped all models with those plugs and harnesses, but they might also use a different main interior harness.

IMO it could be a ton of work and money to get a sub-par unit/radio installed into your vehicle.

 

[Ginz]

Thats interesting cause i bought a 2013 cx-5 sport auto and i have bluetooth no foglights and my color is zeal red mc. My question would be is it possible to put in a radio from a new model for like text messages and stuff like that

 

[daustin]

You get one out of the 2015 model, I'll take your old one and swap it in mine, we both report back if it worked or not and call the discussion closed.

 

[Ginz]

yeah sure lol not even sure if it will work at all have not been able to find anything about it so who knows