Of course as with anything.. don't hold your breath if you really need it now (which is kind of the boat I'm in). I don't currently own a MBP, and I am waiting for several specs to be included before I take the plunge.
Although it is likely that a new update won't happen for at least few months, since we just had one, it's interesting to note that the Intel Core 2 Quad Mobile (aside from the extreme QX9300) is now on Intel's official website. I have a strong feeling that we will see Quad Core MBPs soon.. as in.. with the next update or two. Reason being is... the MBP is a 2000+ $ laptop which is supposed to be a mobile workstation. Mobile quads were designed specifically for laptops like the MBP. If I recall correctly, even the extreme QX9300 had a TDP of 45W, and I read somewhere (not sure if it's accurate) that intel was able to bring it down to 35W for the QX9300. Whether or not that's true, its still possible that the non-extreme mobile quads (the Q9100 and Q9000) could achieve a TDP of 35W, which is what the current core 2 duos are running at.
If you click on the Buyer's Guide tab and look at MBP, you will find this article concerning Intel's Mobile Processor intended refresh timeline.. of course they usually never follow it exactly, but its interesting to look at. Here is a direct link:
https://www.macrumors.com/2008/10/2...-to-be-refreshed-in-april-nehalem-soon-after/
All that information, coupled with the fact that some other manufacturers are already trying to push out quad-core workstation laptops points to the MBP getting a quad-core soon. For if it doesn't, consumers will be paying 1000 over the cost of a quad-core dell or what have you (even though most of us would never buy a dell).
Now you might ask, why do I need a quad? you might not, but with the CAD software I use, I'd like to have a quad along with DDR3 and 8GB memory support if I'm to pay 2500 for a laptop. DDR2 is becoming more and more extinct and DDR3 memory is moving in to the norm for laptops. It's already pretty standard for PCs.
Macworld will most likely see updated Mac Pro and iMac's as well as mini's and the unibody 17" MBP. The portable line will probably be refreshed closer to summer at best. The "Buyers Guide" portion of this website is a good indication of what's anticipated. You might want to check the page out.