I can see where you're coming from but is an A3 really that different to a golf?
Not really, which is why I wouldn't buy one of them either.
The thing is, an A3 is still pretty much an audi inside, whereas Lexus arn't like Lexus were or should be, the modern Lexus interiors might be a bit flashier but they don't have that chunky, functional look to them anymore, it's all small fiddly, germanic, not really all that special something extra that you used to get over everything else that was about at the time.
A lot of people will disagree, but I think Lexus should have remained with 2 or 3 premium models like in the late 90's and make them all special, not try and do a bit of everything, Toyota could have easily used to the Scion brand over here if they want to make slightly upmarket smaller, sportier cars and leave Lexus as their premium Luxury brand.