• Hatchback: Maruti Suzuki Swift
• Compact sedan: Honda Amaze, Maruti Suzuki Dzire
• Compact SUV/Crossover: Maruti Suzuki Fronx, Maruti Suzuki Brezza, Hyundai Exter

The Hyundai Venue Turbo DCT is a good package, but it is on the pricey side by segment standards. 

The HX5 variant does get reasonable features, but we would urge you to consider the HX6 version. While the price gap from the HX5 to HX6 is significant, the HX6 does get essential safety features like a rear wiper, adjustable rear headrests and wider tyres. Of course, the jump to HX6 also brings in more comfort features such as a rear armrest and auto climate control, among others.   

Alternatively, you could consider the Kia Sonet Turbo DCT HTX, Mahindra XUV 3XO AX5 and Maruti Suzuki Fronx Turbo Zeta, all of which offer good automatic gearboxes. Also pack in plenty of comfort and safety features within your Rs 13 lakh budget. 

Of the two options you have shortlisted, it's the Maruti Suzuki Fronx that we'd recommend. It's got the peppier engine, which will make a big difference on your highway journeys. 

Given your limited usage in the city, an automatic isn't essential. Again, were you to opt for the automatic options, it's the Fronx's AMT that's superior to the one you get on the Tata Punch AMT. 

We would lean towards the Citroen C3X Shine with the 1.2 turbo engine and six-speed AT. It's a little above your budget but will suit your needs best as it is extremely comfortable, has a superb suspension and the best powertrain for the price. 

For highway driving, it is the best of all the options you have shortlisted because of the brilliant engine and dynamics. However, we have added that Citroen’s dealer network is not the best, and hence, after-sales service could be a worry. 

If you want to play safe, go for the Maruti Suzuki Fronx, it's well equipped, reliable and comes with low-cost maintenance. It’s just that for your budget, you will get the 1.2 petrol mated to an AMT, which is nowhere near as nice to drive as the C3X.
 

Since you need an extremely fuel-efficient automatic five-seater, we'd recommend you consider a Maruti Fronx/Toyota Urban Cruiser Taisor 1.2 Petrol AMT. Besides, the engine has adequate performance for your highway drives, and will be smooth for city use. 

Moreover, its high ground clearance will be handy on bad roads. These cars are likely to be quite reliable, so you can expect a trouble-free ownership experience.
 

Considering your running and if you are open to an EV, the MG Comet is a good option for your wife. It is extremely easy to drive, park, and live with thanks to its compact size. Even the top variant falls within your budget and comes well-loaded with features.

If it feels too small and you want something more substantial, the Maruti Suzuki Fronx AMT in the Delta Plus variant is a good fit. The 1.2 litre petrol engine is smooth and efficient, and the AMT works well for everyday use.

If you prefer a more premium automatic, the Hyundai i20 with the smooth CVT transmission is also a strong option and fits comfortably within your budget.

At the moment, there aren’t any hybrid cars in the Rs 10-12 lakh bracket. The most affordable ones you can buy right now start closer to Rs 20 lakh.

Maruti Suzuki plans to introduce a new line of more affordable hybrids, starting with the Fronx Hybrid, although it’s unlikely to arrive before 2027. Even then, it’s uncertain if it will fit within a Rs 12 lakh budget. 

When it comes to flex‑fuel vehicles, they only really make sense once India moves to higher ethanol blends. The current target is E20 (20% ethanol), and there’s no plan yet to exceed that. Cars designed to run on higher ethanol blends, such as E30 or higher, tend to be less fuel-efficient because ethanol contains less energy than petrol. 

That efficiency loss would only be worth accepting if high‑ethanol fuel were significantly cheaper but so far, there’s no sign of that happening.