Spied: 2013 Mini Cooper
The All new Mini Cooper

Our Teamspeed spy photographers have managed to snap first pictures of the 2013 MINI Cooper. Caught undergoing testing in Europe, the heavily camouflaged prototype appears slightly longer and wider than the current model. Additionally, the car adopts a smaller grille, a longer hood and slimmer A-pillars.

While the exterior is instantly recognizable, big changes will occur inside the cabin. The photos show the next-generation Cooper will ditch the center-mounted speedometer for a more traditional instrument cluster. Engine options remain a bit of a mystery, but we can expect a variety of fuel-efficient powertrains. Nothing is official, but we wouldn't be surprised if entry-level models are equipped with the new three-cylinder TwinPower engines. Stay tuned for more.

 

The new one looks like it's going to get a double-chin. I really liked the Mini for it's short front overhang. I'm hoping it's just some camouflage. Because that looks absurdly nose-long from some angles.

 

Doesn't really look quite "mini" anymore.

 

YESSSS!!! That's the biggest complaint I have with existing Mini's. I love those little go-karts but I could never get over the feeling of driving something that was more of a toy than a serious vehicle because of the goofy interior.

 

You might be right.

Here are some spy-photos of the interior. Even though they've retained that massive circular console, I can't seem find the speedo around its rim. They've given it a new steering-wheel. I don't like it. The previous Mini had a much nicer wheel. The AT stick seems to be a carry-over.

Source: 2014 MINI Cooper Interior Spied With Little Disguise

 

I'm still a little disappointed at the giant circular dash, but oh well. As long as the gauges are back where I can see them and not off to the right that's a huge improvement.