Terminator is... back?

It's a safe bet A Schwarzenegger hasn't said hasta la vista to Hollywood yet.

While McG refused to confirm the news at a press gaggle in New York Monday to hype his upcoming Terminator Salvation, the helmer all but invited speculation that the Covernator will be back for one more go-round as the titular cyborg. At least in cameo form.

Asked by producer Dan Lin about what surprises are in store for moviegoers, McG said with a wink and a nod: "I can't talk about it. I can't talk about the governor of California."

Since winning 2003's recall election, Schwarzenegger has spent more time busting budgets than heads. His last official feature film appearance came in 2004's Around the World in 80 Days opposite Jackie Chan, and his last appearance as the T-800 in 2003's Terminator 3: Rise of the Machines.

Terminator Salvation stars Christian Bale as the all-grown-up John Connor, leading the human resistance against Skynet and its cyborg army.

Seeking to get media types psyched about his sequel (and assuage fan fears that his movie wouldn't live up to James Cameron's classics), McG offered a sneak peek of some key scenes in what he hopes is the launchpad for a second Terminator trilogy.

McG powwowed with the King of the World, who offfered tips on staying true to the mythology and characters Cameron created back in 1984: "He sort of nodded and said, 'Look I reserve the right to like it or not like it.'. . .I said 'fair enough. . .I want the film to speak for itself at all times.' He nodded and we shook hands." McG is set to show Cameron a rough cut in two weeks.