I have the same issue, the middle seat can't seem to latch to the other seat naturally, unless I use force to make sure the two seperate seat latches (pulling the middle seat up, while pushing the left seat down). I have a 2022 Mazda CX 5.

Anybody have any clue what's going on?

 

I had the same problem when I bought the 21 GT Reserve in Nov 2021. I have found this car to be very "quirky" and this is another example of why I find this car to be so quirky.
Eventually, I had to use sufficient force to slam the seat back to the upward position. I positioned my body in the back seat, so that I could get as much leverage to be able to forcefully raise the seat back. Luckily, I will not have to lower it any time soon, if ever.

 

I have the same problem with my 2022 CX5. I will probably take it back to the dealership tomorrow and find out how to best deal with it since it seems others have the same problem. I can/t even latch it with force. Any ideas what I may be doing wrong before I look like a complete idiot at the dealership? Lol

 

Same problem with my 2021 CX-5 GTR and pulling the middle seat up while pushing the left seat down worked! I have a service appointment scheduled in 1-1/2 weeks where hopefully they can adjust the center section latch. Will post a follow-up message after the service appointment.