From my 20 years survey servicing and repairing various vehicles on this continent, those who did early oil changes had minimum or no oil leaks and overall more reliable cars than those who went for 10,000 - 15,000km between the services. Also many of them kept their cars well beyond 200,000km.

I also did change the first oil in almost all our 7 VAG cars at no later 1,500km and can report no oil usage or any oil leaks or mechanical issues.

Sure, if you keep your car only for 3-4years, don't waste money and do what the manufacturer says, it will work for you and of course for them.