the 'new' format is pretty much the same thing that any other webcomic uses. it's a tested formula that works. so if that's what you're going for, then yeah, use it. try different layouts to get the comic on the front page though. try putting the comic on one side, and the update notes on the other or something.
to answer your question without all the preachy "think outside the box" bullshit, yes. it looks better.