The MINI Cooper is going under the knife once again, as spy photographers have snapped a handful of facelifted prototypes.
While the car was updated in 2018, MINI wants to keep the Cooper fresh as the next-generation model has been delayed due to ongoing Brexit concerns. BMW admitted as much as in February, and the coronavirus could have complicated matters even further.
Regardless, spy photographers got a pretty good look at the facelifted John Cooper Works variant. It features a new front fascia with vertical air intakes and a prominent splitter. We can also expect a revised grille, but it’s hidden beneath heavy camouflage.
Also Read: Next-Gen MINI Models Delayed Until Further Notice Due To Brexit, Cost-Cutting Measures
The sides largely carryover, but there’s new front fender badges with integrated turn signals. While those lights are new, the head- and taillights will apparently carryover.
Out back, there’s a new rear bumper with an integrated diffuser. It looks a bit more mature than the current bumper and it accommodates a center-mounted dual exhaust system.
Little else is known about the facelifted model, but interior updates should be relatively minor as the 2021 Cooper gained a digital instrument. However, there could be an updated infotainment system and some other small changes.
Given this is an end of lifecycle update, we wouldn’t be surprised if engine options largely carryover. If that’s the case, we can expect choices to include a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder with 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 189 hp (141 kW / 192 PS).
![](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/themes/carscoops/assets/images/icons/arrow.png"){kind=icon}