When Audi first showed us its Sport quattro concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show last September, sources suggested to us that the concept hinted at styling cues, design forms, and features that are being considered for Audi’s next generation of cars. The concept, after all, sits on a next-generation version of Audi’s MLB platform, which will be used for most of the automaker’s lineup from the next A4 up.

However, it seems Audi may have had a change of heart since then, as it is now being reported that the automaker is considering putting the concept into production, something that’s been rumored for the past several years.

Speaking with Auto Motor und Sport, Audi CEO Rupert Stadler said that nothing has been decided yet on the fate of the Sport quattro concept and that feedback has been thoroughly positive. In addition, Audi is set to reveal an updated version of the concept at next week’s 2014 Consumer Electronics Show, this time featuring the automaker’s new laser headlight technology.

If it did make it to production, Auto Motor und Sport reports that it will likely lose its 700-horsepower plug-in hybrid drive system, as this has caused the 2+2 coupe’s weight to balloon to more than 4,000 pounds. Instead, Audi’s turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine or turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 are said to be more likely options.

As for a launch date? Next year’s 35th anniversary of the 1980 Audi Ur-Quattro seems like a fitting date.

_______________________________________

Follow Motor Authority on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.