Mini has announced that its 2011 European models will have larger engines and more paint schemes available than 2010 Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper S models, according to Autoblog.

All of the European Mini Cooper engines will receive a displacement increase from 1.4 liters to 1.6 liters, which is what the current U.S. model has. The engines will also receive a few other upgrades that could make the U.S. versions better, if the technology is brought over. The engine improvements include an upgraded turbo, new main and camshaft bearings and a computer to control the oil, vacuum and water pumps for more efficient operation. The end result is more power and less emissions, or “more poke with less smoke,” as Mini says.

A large part of the Mini experience has always been customization. With tons of different color combinations and factory accessories available, making your Mini Cooper your own has always been part of the fun of owning one. Now Mini is taking that a step further by offering Chameleon paints that seem to change and shift depending on the way light hits them. Mini may be 10 years late to the chameleon paint party, but it’s a cool look.

There has been no official word yet on whether the engine improvements or special chameleon paint schemes will be available on U.S. Minis. With the sporty small car segment getting more crowded and competitive every year and the novelty of the Mini rapidly expiring (it’s been around for nine years), it makes sense for Mini to add anything they can to set the Coopers apart.

Pictures via Autoblog.