I can’t speak to autos specifically.. but I like topping earlier/ lower. I shoot for 2-3 nodes or 4-6 branches.. then tie down and let them new growths from each branch grow upwards.. with photos i usually top again the top node, allowing lower branches to grow laterally and up to meet the others.
Hard to describe, but yes. Topping at 6-7 and allowing those to grow out is gonna give you a bush..