While the exterior of the MINI is immediately recognizable, the exterior changes to the ’13 Cooper S reveal a version that is longer and wider than the current-generation model. Brought to us by the photographers at Brenda Priddy & Co., these photos of the latest prototype reveal a smaller grille, longer hood and slimmer A-pillars. The shooter reported that the typical hood-mounted air intake of the Cooper S was well covered, an obvious hint that this prototype is hiding another surprise.

While the shooter also reported that changes are in store for the interior, one omission noticed immediately was the absence of the center-mounted speedometer for a more traditional instrument cluster.

Engine options for the new model are still a bit of a mystery, but Priddy's team expects a variety of fuel-efficient powertrains and, while nothing is official, they would not be surprised if the entry-level models are equipped with the new three-cylinder TwinPower engines. For the Cooper S, however, a new turbocharged 1.6L with 180 hp is likely, while the JCW gets a similar unit with 220 hp.

Photos: Brenda Priddy & Company