Spy shots of the 2021 Mini Countryman.

The third generation family of modern Minis is in the process of being updated.

The first members were hardtops and convertibles, followed by an updated Clubman.

Leaving the Countryman as the last member to be updated. Given the recent sighting of a prototype, we can assume that an update is on the way, and expect it to be introduced soon as a 2021 model.

The Mini should be accompanied by new Union Jack-style graphics for the front and rear masks and taillights with some refreshing for the Countryman, only inciting mild updates for the mid-cycle of that car. It will also feature a more streamlined Mini logo.

Inside, the interior will feature an updated infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch display (also available in 8.8-inch), a wireless charging pad, and more connectivity options. There will also be more trim options.

Given the changes in the 2020 model year, it is unlikely that the powertrain will be tweaked. That is, the base Cooper will get a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline 3-cylinder that makes 134 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque (169 lb-ft on overboost), while the Cooper S will get 189 hp and 206 lb-ft (221 lb-ft on overboost). The Cooper S would be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that produces 189 hp and 206 lb-ft of torque (221 lb-ft when overboosted).

For the 2020 John Cooper Works, the output of the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 has been increased from 228 hp to 301 hp. This reduced the 0-62 mph time to 5.1 seconds, about 1.5 seconds faster than before.

Meanwhile, the 2020 Cooper S E plug-in hybrid increased its battery capacity from 7.6 kilowatt-hours to 9.6 kilowatt-hours, increasing its electric range from 12 miles to about 16 miles.