Category: New Products

The newest Mazda and Mazdaspeed performance parts are available under teh new products tags. New products for the Mazdaspeed 3, Mazdaspeed 6, Mazda 3, Mazda 6 turbo, Skyactiv turbo engines and more

Posted on

Enhance Handling with a Stiffer Chassis: Lower Tie Bar for 4th Gen AWD Mazda3 & AWD CX-30

Introducing the CorkSport Lower Tie Bar for the AWD 2019+ Mazda 3 & AWD CX-30! Improve your cornering characteristics and steering feel by stiffening the front subframe of your vehicle.

For example, anytime chassis bracing is added, the stiffened subframe/chassis allows the suspension and tires to do their job better, giving you the performance and feel you want on a twisty backroad. We are proud to bring one of our favorite simple Mazdaspeed 3 mods to the 4th GEN Mazda 3 and CX-30 communities!

Lower tie bar on the Mazda

Improved Handling

While cornering or under heavy acceleration, all the forces that come from your tires must be counteracted by the suspension and chassis of your vehicle. With lateral cornering loads, a lot of these tire forces are transmitted into your subframe. ( See Image Below) The red arrows show the forces as they act through the control arms and into your subframe.

CorkSport No Lower Tie Bar Diagram showing only tire Forces

How It Works

Since the 4th GEN subframe is essentially a large square, these forces can flex the subframe, pushing in the sides and/or turning the square into more of a parallelogram. This flex will dull your handling feel and slow the vehicle’s response to steering inputs. The CS lower tie bar connects the lower control arm mounting points, stiffening the subframe and allowing the CS bar to help counteract any forces that were flexing the subframe previously!

The Tie Bar on a Mazda shows Improved support for better handling

Drivers Report It Handles Better

Okay enough theory, what does this mean for your car? We tested opinions of the car with and without the tie bar, and our drivers reported good improvements! Specifically, better steering feel, reduced bump steer, and more responsive turn-in. The upgrade is perfect for driving on the street, track, or autocross! There is a minor enhancement to the brake pedal feel when under hard braking. Like on the MS3 lower tie bar, the CS GEN4 lower tie bar will even help to control wheel hop and torque steer during those hard launches.

Best suspension upgrade for the CX-30

Shape of the Lower Tie Bar

While the shape appears a bit unconventional for chassis bracing, it is for a simple and good reason: so the bar will actually fit! The clearances around the engine, transmission, and transfer case are pretty tight on the GEN4, so the bendy shape had to be used. Rest assured, it fits without issue and installs in just about 30 minutes! This design did present an issue: a bent bar will be less robust than a straight bar. Don’t worry; we used FEA software to simulate a high-load corner and found that our design is more than strong enough to take all of the forces directly without issue. This is a worst-case-scenario as in reality, these cornering forces are distributed among the suspension components, subframe, and rest of the chassis, but we felt it necessary to prove that the CorkSport lower tie bar can handle whatever abuse you can throw at it!

Angular design show the tie bar handles extreme forces

Testing the Tie Bar

Like our Mazdaspeed 3 tie bar, the 2019+ MZ3 bar is made from 1-inch diameter, 0.120-inch wall steel tubing with 0.190-inch thick mounting brackets on the ends. The material and same design philosophy have proven to take every bit of abuse on 600, 700, and 800 horsepower MS3s so you can be confident in its reliability on your GEN4! Each bar is finished off with a satin black powder coat and a small CS decal for a great-looking bar that will stay looking great for a long time.

Quality design and materials make this the perfect Tie Bar for your Mazda

While not required, the CS Lower Tie Bar works even better when paired with our other chassis braces, like the CS Strut Tower Bar, Sway Bar, and Mazda 3 Rear Hatch Brace. Check out our listing linked below for more info, and be sure to give us a call with any questions!

Connect with us

You may also like

Stay up-to-date on the latest news and product updates from CorkSport.

* indicates required
Posted on

Built to Protect, CX-50 Skid Plate is Designed for Adventure!

Traveling off the beaten with your Mazda CX-50 just got a whole lot better with the CorkSport Skid Plate. The new skid plate ensures you make it there and back again with the engine and transmission properly protected for all your on trail adventures.

Featuring an extra thick 5mm aluminum main plate that will withstand substantially more abuse than the factory plastic piece and an optional front plate for complete coverage, provides a substantial improvement to the OEM tray. So, if you plan on venturing off-road or want more on-road protection and peace of mind, keep reading below for more details on the CS Skid Plate for the CX-50.

Complete protection with the Aftermarket CX-50 skid plate

From the factory, the CX-50 comes with a basic plastic splash shield/aerodynamic cover as found on other Mazda models. They provide the minimum protection needed for everyday street driving, but they are absolutely insufficient when faced with highway debris, through mid to extreme snow conditions, or more adventurous driving on forest roads.

When driving on these less traveled roads and trails, the probability of encountering large rocks or tree limbs is much higher and thus exponentially leading to the probability of damage to the underside of your CX-50. The damage that these objects can do to critical components, such as the oil pan, is a major concern, as it can leave you stranded.

The primary purpose behind the CorkSport Skid Plate is to better protect the engine and transmission from these potential threats. This allows you to traverse trails and forest roads with more confidence and helps ensure that you will get back home safe.

CX-50 Skid plate designed to fit like OEM

The CorkSport skid plate has multiple options so you can choose how much protection you want for your CX-50. The OEM splash shield is made up of two pieces: (1) a main rear section that covers the underside of the engine, transmission, and transfer case and (2) a front section that sits underneath the front bumper and radiator.

Option 1 of the CS skid plate is a replacement rear section only. The thick 5mm aluminum plate protects the critical drivetrain components while integrating with the plastic OEM front section.*

Option 2 of the CS skid plate replaces both sections of the OEM splash shield. It includes the same thick rear section but also includes a thinner front section (The same 2.25mm material used in our other skid plates). The front section offers much better protection for the radiator and front components than OEM, but the thinner material reduces added weight.

*Don’t worry, though; you can always start with the rear section and upgrade to full front & rear coverage later with our upgrade kit!

The design of the CorkSport Skid Plate is modeled after the factory shape of the OE cover to ensure proper fitment and coverage of the underside of your CX-50.

We changed where the skid plate attaches to the vehicle for sturdier mounting. We use aluminum standoffs in four key locations that allow for M10 hardware to be used instead of the OEM M6 hardware and push clips.

A slight modification is required if you install only the main CS skid plate, as two holes must be drilled in the plastic OEM splash shield to accommodate the new mounting points. This does not cause any issues if you decide to go back to the OEM splash shield at a later date. Good news, though—if you chose both sections of the CS skid plate, no permanent modifications are required for installation!

Skid Plate with optional front plate

We were careful to incorporate all of the features of the OEM splash shield as well! This includes an air duct to keep the transfer case at the proper operating temperature when you are out on the trail (just like OEM).

We also designed a recessed oil change access panel to provide protection to your oil pan while allowing for quick oil changes without full skid plate removal.  The oil cover is flush with the rest of the skid plate, providing a near-seamless transition between the main plate and the oil cover, so there is little chance it can get snagged on anything that you may drive over.  

Designed with easy access for oil changes

The 5052 aluminum that we picked for the CX-50 Skid Main Plate is the thickest we have done to date. At 5mm or just over 3/16in, this skid plate is over double the thickness of our other skid plate fitments to ensure that it can withstand extreme conditions.

To get its shape, the CorkSport Skid Plate is laser cut and then precision bent, which provides a quality fit and finish. The optional front plate is made out of our standard thickness of 2.25mm (~0.090in) aluminum, with the same laser cut and bent process.

All necessary hardware is included for installation and our electronic instructions are conveniently located on our our site, so you can discover new trails in no time.    

Air Ventilation and thickness keep temperatures cool and vital engine components safe

If you are searching for increased underbody protection the CX-50 Skid Plate can provide, head on over to the product listing for additional images and details. As always, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to call!

Connect with us

You may also like

Stay up-to-date on the latest news and product updates from CorkSport.

* indicates required

Posted on

New Performance Cat Back Exhaust For The Mazda CX50

Introducing the new CorkSport Cat Back Exhaust for the 2023+ CX50.  We are excited to bring another awesome performance product to the CX50 community…this time we really want to make some noise about it!  Stainless steel construction, 4-inch tips, and an exhaust tone you’ll love every day. This defines the new CorkSport exhaust.  

Back profile of the Mazda CX50 cat back exhaust

The Exhaust to Match the CX-50

The CX50 is already a fantastic-looking SUV (heck, we have two of them in the lot!) with great power and capabilities on and off-road.  Much like our development of the Mazda 3 & CX30 exhaust systems, we pursued a design that would add to the overall driving experience of the CX50, but it’s so quiet. Like a dog without a bark!  We sought to change that with the CorkSport Performance Exhaust. 

The CorkSport asymmetric design may not be conventional, but it has a purpose.  The long high-flow resonator on the driver side controls the drone and rasp that would otherwise entire the passenger compartment, while the shorter passenger side utilizes 63.5mm mandrel bent piping to allow an exciting growl out of the exhaust.  Combined, we found the balance of noise output and drone control, creating a fun and comfortable performance exhaust for your daily driven CX-50. 

Exhaust Options

Our current release is for the entire Cat-Back Exhaust system, which will provide a more pronounced exhaust note.  For those looking for a less aggressive exhaust note, we offer the CX-50 Axle-Back exhaust system that still provides an improved look and sound. Add the Axle back to your OEM midpipe and you’re ready to go!

Best Cat back system for Mazda CX50

Designed to Fit

Like all CorkSport Exhaust Systems, the performance CX50 exhaust is designed to fit like OEM and maintain great ground clearance & departure angles for those off-road adventures.  The 4-inch dual wall slant cut tips fit tightly in the OEM bumper cutouts and follow the great body lines of the CX-50.  Designed for all AWD models of the CX-50 Turbo and non-Turbo. 

Photo of CX50 cat back exhaust showing tip

In our R&D testing, we found that Mazda allowed some manufacturing inconsistencies in its OEM exhaust components. As a result, we redesigned our exhaust with an adjustable flange that will compensate for these disparities.

What does that mean exactly? We’ve incorporated a new “ball & socket” connection that allows for maximum adjustment to ensure the perfect fit.

Quality Design

Construction of the CorkSport exhaust systems uses 304 stainless steel mandrel bent piping and TIG welded joints that are strong and beautiful. All the necessary hardware is included for a quick and easy installation with basic hand tools. Supporting all that are color step-by-step instructions and the support of the CorkSport team by phone, email, and message. 

Thanks for checking out the new CorkSport Cat Back Exhaust for the 2023+ Mazda CX-50!

Connect with us

You may also like

Stay up-to-date on the latest news and product updates from CorkSport.

* indicates required
Posted on

The New Mazdaspeed 6 Downpipe V2– The Modular Design

The 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed 6 gets refreshed with the CorkSport V2 Downpipe in both Catted and Non-Catted setups.  There were a few things we weren’t completely satisfied with the old design. So, we sought to improve the downpipe. But How!?

Mazdaspeed 6 Downpipe Modular Design for easy installation

Modular By Design

The modular design was a significant reason for the update. In our development of the Mazdspeed 3 3.5” exhaust, we utilized a cast stainless steel bell mouth which provided us with an opportunity to take that same logic and apply it to the Mazdaspeed 6.  With the modular 2-piece design, we could increase performance and reliability while drastically improving the installation process.   

Modular components make installation easier for the Mazdaspeed 6 V2 Downpipe

That said, the new V2 design improves fitment with a single 3” pipe section and the modular v-band connected bell mouth.  No more fighting the downpipe while trying to tighten the nuts on the turbo.  Hooray!

Downpipe for the 2006-2007 Mazdaspeed 6

Quality

For both the bell mouth and the piping, we use 304 stainless steel for its excellent corrosion resistance, and it looks fantastic.  All the necessary hardware is included with the downpipe-only kit. 

What’s included

  • New Turbo Studs, Nuts, and MLS Gasket 
  • New OEM Style Flange Gasket
  • SS V-Band Clamp
  • O2 Sensor Extension Harness
All the required hardware is added to the Downpipe for the MS6

Options

Lastly, you have the option to select a catless setup or a catted setup using a high-flow metallic foil CAT.  The choice is yours, but they are both intended for off-road and racing use only. 

We hope you are as excited about this new Mazdaspeed 6 downpipe as we are! Pair it up with a new CorkSport Cat-Back exhaust to get your Speed 6 sound its absolute best! 

Connect with us

You may also like

Stay up-to-date on the latest news and product updates from CorkSport.

* indicates required
Posted on

Protect Your Mazda 3/CX-30 with The CS Skid Plate

Mazda 3 skid tray

We are excited to announce another product for both the 4th Gen Mazda 3, 2021+ Mazda 3 Turbo, and 1st Gen Mazda CX-30! The new offering to the lineup is the CorkSport Skid Plate which utilizes our tried and true 11 gauge aluminum construction with a 2-piece design for an OEM-like installation. The CS Skid Plate is perfect for anyone who is lowered or anyone who likes to take their car out on forest roads and wants more protection over the thin factory splash guard. Keep on scrolling for more details!

2019+ Mazda 3 Turbo Skid Plate installed

OEM Splash Guard vs CorkSport Skid Plate

Starting with the OEM splash guard, there is much to be desired in terms of protection. The factory piece is made of thin plastic that is only designed to protect the bottom of your engine and transmission from things such as water, dust, and small debris. This can lead to a problem when you have lowering springs on your car or go on a camping trip.

In both of these situations, there is a greater chance of objects such as rocks and other larger debris hitting the splash guard and puncturing or even ripping off the splash guard completely, leading to potential damage to your oil pan or other critical components.

The CS Skid Plate on the other hand is all aluminum and can better protect against these threats to ensure that you can get to your destination and back intact. This provides you with peace of mind whether you like to go on rocky forest roads, up to the mountain through snow & ice, or are lowered and trying to get over speed bumps.

CX30 undercarriage Skid plate protection

Improved Plate Design

To provide a factory fit, we have CAD-designed the CS Skid Plate to mount directly in place of the OEM splash shield. This means no drilling, cutting, trimming, or issues during the installation.

The Skid Plate is also a 2-piece design similar to the OEM splash shields so that installation is easier and that there is some adjustability for minor variation between vehicles and to also help reduce the shipping cost. We also implemented an air duct into the CS Skid Plate that is similar to the one on the factory AWD splash shields to help supply cool air to the front differential. 

Finally, there is an oil access cover that you can move out of the way to easily change your oil and filter without removing the 2 main skid plate sections.

Mazda 3 Rally Skid Tray

Quality Matters

Each CorkSport Skid Plate is made from laser cut and precision formed 11 gauge 5052 aluminum. This ensures a consistent fitment that will make installation straightforward as well as the much-needed increase in engine protection. Included with the CS Skid Plate are stainless steel button head bolts that provide great corrosion resistance and are lower profile than a traditional hex bolt to reduce the chance of them getting snagged.

Mazda CX-30 lifted CS Skid Plate

If you want to increase the protection to the underbody of your Mazda, the CorkSport Aluminum Skid Tray is a great option! Head over to the product listing for the video and more images and feel free to call us with any questions!

Connect with us

You may also like

Stay up-to-date on the latest news and product updates from CorkSport.

* indicates required