Kia Syros

Considering your requirements, the Kia Syros fits the bill and will offer everything you need in one package. 

The petrol engine has enough grunt for daily city driving, and the DCT gearbox is easy to use, especially if you’re not expecting high performance. The drive modes also help it adapt better on highways. It has the roomiest cabin among the SUVs you’ve mentioned.

The rear seat with the recline function is very comfortable. The panoramic sunroof brings in a lot of light and makes the cabin feel more open. The features and equipment list are excellent, and the overall build quality is very impressive.

The only area where it may fall slightly short is fuel efficiency, though the difference isn’t much.

Overall, it’s a fantastic package and works as a great all-in-one car.

The XUV 3XO you have shortlisted is a sub-4-metre SUV, but don't rule it out as it has a wide and spacious back seat. 

In fact, the Maruti Suzuki Brezza, which is also a sub-4-metre SUV, also has a wider back seat and more headroom than its larger siblings, the Maruti Victoris and Grand Vitara, while having the same petrol engine and 6-speed AT.

What's more, you will get a fully loaded Brezza ZXi+ AT for the same price as a lower spec Victoris VXi AT, and within your budget of Rs 15 lakh, on road. 

If you're fine with Kia as a brand, and don't mind the polarising exterior look, the Kia Syros 1.0 T-GDi HTX DCT is an excellent option in your price range, with superb interior space.

You might want to consider the Kia Syros - a quirky, boxy compact SUV, with high-quality interiors and a surprisingly spacious cabin. It's a 60:40 split seats slide and fold too, adding flexibility, and its rear windows roll fully down, which is a positive for your pet. If you want something that's larger and more premium, you may want to check out the Skoda Kushaq and VW Taigun, both of which are nicer to drive, especially for your outstation trip.