x4 x4 x4 makes more sense than a single X8. An X4 PCIe slot has about the same bandwidth as an 8X AGP slot.
I've sent a second message inquiring if additional configurations are possible by re-assigning SerDes lanes.
Looks like Freescale is right on schedule, but you're right they did originally state "starting at 2.0". I too am surprised that they may release early evaluation boards at a slower speed.

Update: Freescale support just responded to the above mentioned inquiry.

>Only configurations from my previous response are implemented.

So X8 limits PCIe to one controller. 3 controllers at X4 looks like the best option. Now how do I scrape up four grand...

[ Edited by Jim on 2011/3/10 19:54 ]