Mazda’s ND Miata, while beloved, has faced criticism for its aggressive front-end styling. Now, a new aftermarket bumper from Scud Power offers owners a way to soften the roadster’s look, giving it a classic, vintage appearance reminiscent of the earlier NB generation.
A Return to Simplicity
The ND Miata’s original design featured narrow, furrowed headlights and a large, imposing grille – a look some described as overly aggressive. The new bumper aims to reverse this, replacing the sharp angles with smoother curves and a smaller, rounder grille.
This subtle change transforms the car’s “face” from an angry scowl to a more welcoming smile. The redesigned area around the headlights also contributes to the softer aesthetic, blending the sharp lights with gentler sheet metal contours.
Practical Details
The bumper is constructed from fiber-reinforced plastic and closely mimics the front-end design of the NB Miata. It currently costs ¥95,000 (roughly $607 USD), but shipping to the United States and painting will add to the total cost.
While the smaller grille opening raises questions about potential cooling impacts, this appears to be a secondary concern for most enthusiasts. The primary appeal lies in the visual transformation.
The Miata’s Evolving Identity
Mazda is already planning the next-generation Miata, which will likely retain the current model’s compact size while featuring a larger 2.5-liter engine. The automaker has hinted that the new car will remain relatively small – less than 157 inches long – meaning designers will continue to work within tight constraints.
The Miata’s history shows it can adapt to different styles, so the next model could adopt a less aggressive look. Whether it will embrace a wider smile or maintain a bolder stance remains to be seen.
This aftermarket bumper demonstrates the Miata’s enduring appeal and the willingness of enthusiasts to customize its appearance. The new design offers a fresh take on a classic roadster, blending modern performance with retro aesthetics.
