I will never buy a 2-door car and BMWs are a dime a dozen around here. I'd go for the new A3, if wanted to step in class.
Still just a GTI.
Not even, if it gets the 1.8.Still just a GTI.
The 3 series is of course more expensive but BMW's have very attractive residuals and lease very well. My 2014 328i with leather and the Sport Line retailed for over $43K but leases for well under $500.00/month with 12K/year for 3 years. It's in a different size class than a GTI, Audi S3 or CLA with more interior and trunk space.
Not even, if it gets the 1.8.