New M and the "Leica Look"

Am wondering if you all care to provide input on something I haven't seen discussed yet.

Part of the draw of the Leica M9 is the "Leica Look" the images have. Not always easy to describe, many (includng myself these days) claim to know it when they see it. Maybe it's just wishful thinking, or maybe it's justification for an expensive system, but either way, wouldn't the sensor change on the new M have an effect on this? Part of the look was the particular noise of the M9. If this changes with the new ISO handling and sensor, wouldn't this have an adverse effect for those who appreciate the classic look we're accustomed to?
Thanks for your thoughts!