It's always hard to compare Shimano to SRAM. Both brands have fans who overweight their favorite, and there's really not a direct level-to-level mapping between the two. Beyond that, this is the first time I've seen the VIA group. It looks nice, but you never know until you use it.

Both bikes look like they have frames worthy of hanging on to and upgrading over the years. I think you've got two solid choices. If ride doesn't decide it for you, I think you're right to lean toward the Giant because of the extras.