I have seen the auto tailgate (on a test mule), and since it's really just a top half only deal, it's not a big benefit to us. If they had made it so that the bottom was also power, or where the cargo cover would power in and out (a la Mercedes E-class wagons) it would be more useful. It's possible they are adding one (or both) of these features, hence the delay. I would have to do a little more asking around to know for sure. I can say that I think you are dreaming if you think they are going to add the feature to the Comfort Access package and not bump the price. This is just like those of you waiting another year for the TT engine. It's going to be a great improvement, but unless the sales tank on the X5 in the meantime (not really likely) or the Dollar gets much stronger, you will be paying extra for that engine in the MSRP price.