Since you would specifically want to avoid an AMT, we would recommend the Skoda Kylaq. The newly launched Classic+ variant and higher Signature trim will be within your budget.

The automatic version comes with a torque convetor gearbox which is the smoothest autobox around. The 1.0-litre engine also delivers well enough on fuel efficiency and performance. 

The Kylaq's ride and handling balance is good, however it does feel jittery over low-speed bumps and ruts. If this is a deal breaker, we would suggest you look at the Maruti Brezza. It also has a torque convertor automatic, which delivers decent mileage and has a very nice low-speed ride. But, it will be slightly above your Rs 12 lakh budget.         

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.

The Skoda Kylaq would be a good option within your budget. The car is stable on highways, and the 1.0-litre engine delivers adequate performance. Also, the automatic gearbox is a torque convertor unit, which is the smoothest type to have. 

Moreover, the Kylaq's driving manners are more fun, and very much driver-focused in the same character as your Ford Ecosport. So, this is something that you would enjoy too.  

Since you currently have a Maruti Suzuki Baleno, we would suggest you upgrade to something like the Honda Amaze or the Skoda Kylaq. Both cars come in under 4 meters in length and so are better suited to crowded city conditions.  

The Amaze's CVT automatic gearbox is smoother than many AMTs that come at this price point. Especially when driven at low, constantly changing speeds in the city and being a sedan. It will feel like an upgrade and offer you more boot space, too, should that be a requirement for you. 

If you don't like the idea of a sedan, you can opt for the Skoda Kylaq, which will offer you a higher seating point and better ground clearance. Also, the automatic gearbox on the Kylaq is a torque convertor, which is the smoothest autobox around.   

If you want a torque converter automatic transmission, the Skoda Kylaq is your best bet. It is powered by a lively 999cc 3-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, paired with a smooth 6-speed AT, with a suspension setup that makes driving the Kylaq fun.

The Brezza, on the other hand, feels better to drive thanks to its larger 1.5 litre petrol engine paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. However, the most affordable automatic Brezza is available only in the VXI variant, which costs close to Rs 13 lakh on road, putting it well above your stated budget.

A more affordable alternative is the Skoda Kylaq in the Signature variant, priced at around Rs 12 lakh on road. The Kylaq is engaging to drive, and its 1.0 litre turbo petrol engine paired with a 6-speed torque converter automatic offers smooth performance with enough power for both city and highway driving.

If you want to stay well within a Rs 10 lakh budget, the Hyundai i20 is also a strong option. It is powered by a 1.2 litre petrol engine and comes with a smooth CVT transmission, making it suitable for daily urban use.

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.