Can't comment on other variants. I got to drive aspire 1.5 MT for a week, loved it. I found it way better than GLI in terms of handling and acceleration.
It was within the family and hence I had an extended test drive
. Had the car for a whole week.
My heart said purchase it as it was for sale but my back made me change my decision as it killed my back and I found it very uncomfortable.
Disclaimer: Have back issues. May be for others it would be an excellent choice.