I had both Halfways (hard tail and RS, rear suspension only available in the eastern hemisphere). For US$500.00 I would rather have an upgraded downtube or a dahon.
The bike is difficult to upgrade, difficult to fix, difficult to pack and feels really hard even on paved roads.
Unless you take the fenders out, the "modern technology" does not make your life any easier to fix a flat or anything.
On top of that, Giant Costumer service is a JOKE if you have any concerns about a folder model. They don't even know what to tell you if you call and ask what parts are upgradeable.
I had a great time with my Giants, but I had a greater time after I sold them.
R14.