2015 MINI Paceman and Countryman revealed

The 2015 MINI Paceman and Countryman compact SUVs have broken cover in Europe, showing off subtle new designs and incorporating mechanical changes, including more efficient Euro 6 compliant engines.

Playing spot-the-difference with the new-look MINI SUVs reveals a number of visual changes to the front ends, including restyled headlights incorporating new daytime running lights, a redesigned grille with a flattened hexagonal motif and updated alloy wheel patterns.

Of course there's more chrome highlights inside and outside the SUVs, and MINI reckons the new look of the high-riding twins is "extravagant and powerful" with "dynamic proportions". There are new options that add more bling, too, such as LED fog lamps and a couple of new exterior colours, Jungle Green and Midnight Grey metallic, and a Harman Kardon stereo.

Updates to connectivity and infotainment systems have been made which include improved smart phone integration via MINI Connected, which synchronises with apps such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare, Stitcher, Napster, Deezer and TuneIn to name a few.

The usual cornucopia of customisation options are available, including body stripes, contrasting roof colours and so on.

Although the new models don't get MINI's new three-cylinder turbo engines, both models feature updated versions of their current motors, which are now Euro 6 compliant.

The Cooper S models' 1.6-litre turbo-petrol powerplants get an extra 5kW of power, now pumping out 140kW/280Nm to boot. This gives the sporty models more zing, capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h slightly faster now, taking 7.4 seconds with a six-speed manual (previously 7.5sec).

All models retain their six-speed gearboxes, available in manual or conventional automatic guises.

Fuel consumption has dropped significantly, with entry-level 1.6-litre naturally-aspirated 90kW MINI Cooper Paceman and Countryman models both using 5.9L/100km (6.9L/100 with the six-speed auto), down from 6.5L/100km (7.6L/100km).

Due in the Australia in the fourth quarter of 2014, MINI spokesperson Lenore Fletcher explained the new models would undergo price changes, aligning both the Countryman and coupe-like Paceman models, which means a slight price rise for the $34,100 Countryman and a reduction for the $35,900 Paceman.

"They'll meet in the middle in terms of price," said Fletcher, suggesting an entry price of $34,900 for both models when they lob later in the year.

"There's been a refinement of the vehicles' interior and exterior, which will freshen up the range," added Fletcher, who said the improvements in fuel economy will also increase appeal.