The ND Retrofit: Scud Power Launches a Bumper That Restores the Classic “Smile” to the Mazda Miata

A new bumper designed by Scud Power offers a vintage-inspired restyling for the current Mazda Miata ND. This accessory replaces the current aggressive grille with a more subtle design that recalls the second-generation NB model.

Mazda decided to add a touch of sass to the latest ND Miata model. It gave the little roadster an aggressive look. The design included narrow headlights with “furrowed brows” and a gaping grille. Now, a new bumper softens this design. Therefore, it gives the Miata a tamer, vintage-inspired front end.

Our friends at The Autopian discovered the new bumper. Scud Power manufactures the fiber-reinforced plastic part. Aesthetically, it looks a lot like the NB model’s bumper. In fact, it has a similar shape and grille to the second-generation Miata. This softens the ND’s front-end appearance.

Details of the Aesthetic Transformation

The new grille is much smaller and rounder. Thus, it turns the ND’s “gaping maw” into a subtle smile. The area around the headlights is also slightly different. Furthermore, it features softer furrows under the same sharp headlights. The smaller grille completely reshapes the face of the vehicle.

The bumper costs ¥95,000. This is equivalent to about $607 at the current exchange rate. However, a premium must be paid for shipping. The part arrives unpainted in the United States. It is unclear how the smaller grille opening affects the cooling capabilities. Despite this, that concern is relatively small.

The Future of the ND Icon

The new front end is an interesting way to customize the ND. Mazda will likely continue to sell this model for a few more years. This will happen before the next-generation model arrives. The automaker is already talking about the ND’s successor. This one will get a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The rest of the car will retain its bite-sized proportions.

The current car measures 154.1 inches long. The new model will be less than 157.0 inches. This does not leave much sheet metal to sculpt. Nevertheless, the Miata’s history indicates that the car can exhibit an assortment of personalities. Perhaps the next-gen model will look less angry. Or maybe the fifth-generation Miata will wear a wider smile as a true enthusiast icon.