I really don't think that the kind of aircraft you learn in makes a differance. I mastered the basics of flying in a Robin HR200, but can get in to a 172 and fly it with ease. (although I need an instructor as I'm not licenced yet.)
a 152 might be a good choice for you're PPL. Why would you neet to train with two spare seats in the back? in my experience, these are good to put your lunch box on, but not "needed" for normal flight training.
My advice would be to do your PPL on a 152 and when you're licenced spend a couple of hours on a 172 or PA28 with a QFI doing a checkout. Converting between a 152 and a 172 is a no brainer, and converting to a PA28 is easy as well.
WF.