TASTEFULLY REFINED: SHOUTA’S CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 has quickly become a popular model in the automotive market for its sharp design, everyday practicality, and surprising mod potential for car enthusiasts. There are subtle differences between the JDM and USDM versions, like headlights/tailights and trim details, which have inspired owners to personalize their builds in unique ways. Shouta ‘s 2023 Soul Red Crystal Metallic CX-5 is a perfect example of this approach of a clean, simple, and tastefully modified SUV that stays true to Mazda’s design language while adding just the right amount of flair. We got the chance to talk to Shouta about his CX-5 and the direction he is headed with the car.

Shouta, what led you to have the car we see today? Did you have something else before this?
Shouta, 今のこのクルマに至るまでにどのような経緯があったのでしょうか？以前は別のクルマに乗っていましたか？

“I used to drive an Atenza. I switched to the CX-5 because I liked the headlights and taillights!”
“以前はアテンザに乗っていました。CX-5はヘッドライトとテールライトを気に入り乗り換えました！”

Then what inspired your styling?
スタイリングのインスピレーションは何ですか？

“I aimed for a simple, cool lowered style, and I reused parts from the Atenza to build it.”
“シンプルにかっこよく下げる形にこだわり、アテンザのパーツを流用して作りました。”

And what would you say is the biggest challenge of modifying the CX-5?
CX-5をカスタムする上で一番大変だったことは何ですか？

“The wheel well space was tight, so I had to make modifications to avoid tire interference. I also changed the tires multiple times to get the right balance. Since I reused an Atenza exhaust, I had it custom-modified.”
“タイヤハウスの空間が狭く、タイヤに干渉しないように加工する必要があったことです。タイヤ替えも複数回行いバランスがいい状態に仕上げました。 マフラーもアテンザ用を流用した為、ワンオフ加工をしてもらいました”

And what future plans are there?
今後の予定（プラン）はありますか？

“I want to modify the headlights to achieve a USDM (U.S. Domestic Market) look.”
“USDMをする為にヘッドライトの加工を行いたいです。”

Lastly, anyone you want to thank for helping with the CX-5?
CX-5のことで感謝したい人はいますか？

“I always get great inspiration from @6goddev’s car!”
“@6goddev さんの車にいつも良い刺激を貰っています！”

MODIFICATION LIST:

-Rear piece Exhaust System
-SIGNATURE STYLE  front lip
-US Tail Light
-LED Reflector
-SSR Professor SP6 20-inch
-Wheel color right: TITAN SILVER
-Wheel color left: PRISM DARK GUNMETAL
-F 10J×20 R 10J×20
-Coilover kit by IDEAL
-Rear linear spring adapters

Shouta’s CX-5 is a great reminder that clean, well-thought-out modifications can make a big impact without going overboard. His attention to detail and appreciation for simple styling give this build a timeless feel that stands out in its own subtle way.

We hope you enjoyed getting a closer look at his approach and maybe even found some inspiration for your own project.

Shavi WijegunaratneJuly 4, 2025

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