Always at the forefront of the Mercedes rumor mill, Auto Bild is reporting today what they believe we can expect to see in a future rendition of the Mercedes C-Class Sport Coupe.

The German publication speculates that although it would seem logical for Mercedes to introduce a new Sport Coupe based on the upcoming W204 C-Class platform, instead we can expect to see the next Sport Coupe built on its current platform, with the only modifications coming by way of the vehicle's appearance.  Hence, no PRE-SAFE, no Keyless Go, and no COMMAND III, all of which will be found on the next-generation C-Class.  They also add they don't expect to see any AMG variants of the next Sport Coupe introduced, with Mercedes instead electing to keep the model as an entry-level vehicle, priced between the Mercedes B-Class and new C-Class lines.

As for what the next C-Class Sport Coupe will receive, Auto Bild believes a number of exterior revisions, including modifications to the rear window, bumper, grille and spoiler, are all forthcoming.  They also believe a variety of smaller gas and diesel powerplants ranging from 156 to 224 horsepower will be available.

The article concludes by stating that if indeed a new Sport Coupe is in the works, production could begin as early as summer of 2008.

How Auto Bild arrived at any of this information remains to be seen. Continuing to build a car based on an outgoing model platform seems like a step backwards in terms of productivity, and convincing consumers to opt for what many will perceive as an outdated vehicle would be a fairly difficult task to achieve.

We'll find out soon enough.

To read more of Auto Bild's speculation, head over to their website for the full scoop. It's translated from German, so it may be somewhat difficult to follow.