Mahindra XUV 3XO

Unfortunately, none of the turbo petrol options you listed will be very efficient. Given your limited running, this should not be a concern.

We would recommend choosing between the Skoda Kylaq and the Mahindra XUV 3XO. Both are engaging to drive, offer strong turbo petrol engines, smooth 6-speed torque converter automatics, and a comfortable ride.

The key difference is space. The Mahindra is the better five-seater thanks to its wider body, while the Skoda offers a larger and more practical boot.

The Tata Nexon remains one of the highest-selling cars in the segment, but it is also among the oldest and is due for an update.

While all three compact SUVs are impressive in their own separate ways, your best bet here is the Skoda Kylaq. Its 1.0 TSI engine and 6-speed automatic combination is smooth, which should come in handy around town. It's also very spacious and comfortable, and even quite a lot of fun to drive. When you go out on the highway, it's reassuringly stable and rides comfortably, too. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO has many of these traits too, but its engine, while powerful, isn't as smooth, refined or efficient as the Skoda's, and it has a tiny boot. The Sonet is starting to show its age, and its rear seat is very cramped. Plus, around town, its DCT gearbox can be quite jerky, and ride quality is firm too.

Between the three cars you have shortlisted, the Tata Sierra Adventure Plus is the nicest, especially because of its turbo-petrol engine and torque converter (automatic) combination. Its powertrain will feel smooth, refined and powerful, good for city and highway driving, both. 

The Kia Seltos turbo's dual-clutch automatic can feel a bit jerky at low speeds or in bumper-to-bumper traffic conditions. If your usage is mainly in the city, opt for the 1.5L petrol-IVT instead, which is a far smoother option. 

Since you have the budget, and don't mind opting for a larger car, we'd rule out the Mahindra XUV 3XO as the Sierra Turbo-AT or Seltos 1.5 Petrol-IVT deliver a more premium overall experience.

The Maruti Suzuki Brezza AT VXI is a sensible choice, though it's a bit out of your budget. The Brezza isn't exciting to drive, but it delivers reasonable performance and fuel economy and also scores well for ride comfort. The cabin is also practical and roomy. 

If you want something more exciting, you have the option of the Mahindra XUV 3XO Petrol AT MX3, the Skoda Kylaq AT Signature, and the Maruti Suzuki Fronx Turbo AT Zeta. The 3XO feels strong and offers the most room for five passengers, if that's a requirement. 

The Skoda Kylaq is most enjoyable to drive thanks to its fun handling and punchy engine. Maruti's Fronx Turbo strikes a good balance between performance and fuel economy.  

There are only two options that would meet your requirements of a diesel automatic and under Rs 13 lakhs. These are the Mahindra XUV 3XO and the Tata Nexon. It would be nice to know a bit more about your requirements to pinpoint one. 

The Tata Nexon is a good option, as fuel efficiency is very important for you, as its efficiency is higher than the 3XO. In our real-world tests, we got an average of 18kpl for the Nexon and 15.5kpl for the Mahindra. 

If, however, driving pleasure and interior space are important, then you would be better off in the 3XO. The engine is refined and delivers good performance. Also, the car is spacious from inside, especially at the rear, where you will find more passenger room than in the Nexon. 

A compact SUV is a good first car to buy. The sub 4-meter footprint makes it easy to manage in crowded streets, and most of the models today offer sufficient space inside and a good level of performance. 

Which car you buy really comes down to some specific requirements, since you have already experienced the Tata Nexon and like it, you can safely go ahead and buy it. The car is a good all-rounder; however, if you would like livelier performance and more space for rear passengers, then the Mahindra XUV 3XO is the better option, just bear in mind the mileage will not be as good as the Nexon.        

If you like the Hyundai Venue 1.0 Turbo DCT, go for it. It is a thoroughly modern, spacious and feature-rich compact SUV. The powertrain has ample performance, and it drives nicely, too. The dual-clutch automatic can feel a bit jerky in bumper-to-bumper traffic, hence we'd recommend you opt for an SUV with a torque converter automatic instead. 

The Mahindra XUV 3XO 1.2 MPFI Turbo petrol AT is an option you must seriously consider. It has a stronger engine and a smoother transmission, which feels more suited for stop-and-go conditions.