Will a bike upgrade really make much difference?

I currently commute on a Claud Butler URBAN 100

I was thinking of buying a better bike with my bonus and my friend has recommended Boardman Performance Hybrid Comp Bike as the best bike in my price range.

Im unsure if it will really make that much of a difference to how faster/easy it is to ride, is it really worth upgrading?

I ride 12 miles a day on road with a couple of kg's worth of gear in my backpack.

I am grateful for any input.