Thank you very much - AU Tiger, canklecat and hokieflyd. Your comment are helpful.
(AU Tiger - the Absolute is indeed an exception for Fuji - it gets mentioned quite often on '10 best hybrids' lists)
So, my take-away here is that given the on-paper specs of this particular model, which is above entry-level, it all reduces to ergonomics (dimensions, saddles, front bars etc.) and the extent of future support from my local dealer.
Do you agree with this statement?
BTW - I'm still puzzled as to why these bikes are so unpopular in comparison to similar bikes in that category.