The bizarre secret features you never knew your car had – from hidden umbrellas to a ‘curry hook’

WHEN buying a used motor, you're likely to research the performance stats, its mileage, and maybe a few luxury extras as well.

But a number of drivers are missing out of making the most of their car's unique features.

A poll of UK drivers uncovered the top features that motorists didn't even know their car had.

Conducted by video tech provider , the study revealed the best secret gadgets and functions, which can all be found in used cars worth less than £10,000.

From hidden umbrella compartments to a special spot to hold your takeway, these features will surprise you.

Nissan 'curry hook'

First introduced in the Nissan Almera back in 1996, the famed "curry hook" started life as a handbag or shopping bag hook.

But drivers quickly found it was best used to keep their takeaway from spilling on the way home from the local curry house - and the media loved it.

The ingenious feature is still used in current Qashqai and X-trail models.

Volkswagen Golf gear knob

One of the most popular small cars ever made, the Golf GTI comes with a feature you may not have noticed.

Every model has a golf ball in place of the gear knob as a subtle nod to the model's name.

The feature was voted the most iconic in CitNOW's poll.

Vauxhall Corsa bike rack

Rather than have to add an ugly metal frame to the back of your car, Vauxhall came up with the idea for an integrated bicycle rack in their Corsa model.

Hidden behind the number plate, the FlexFit system slides out the back of the small hatch, and can hold two bikes.

All you have to do is lift a handle in the boot, attach the spare brake lights, load up your bikes and you're away.

Skoda Superb umbrella

The hidden umbrella in the door has long been a revered feature of every Rolls-Royce car.

But you don't have to own a high-end luxury motor to have a special touch like this.

Skoda added a compact foldable umbrella to the door of their Superb saloon, meaning you'll never get caught in the rain unprepared again.

Citroen perfume dispenser

There's no need for a dangling tree air freshener with Citroen's unique feature.

Their DS 3 model already has one built-in to the car, and lets you choose any scent you like.

You can add your own perfume to the system and control the intensity as you wish.

Honda magic seats

To maximise storage space, Honda came up with their folding seat solution.

First introduced in the Jazz - and the Civic later on - the rear passenger seats fold all the way up to make room for bulky items.

With the bottom of the seat out of the way, you essentially have a second boot inside your car.

Volkswagen Beetle vase

Volkswagen's special feature could be the oldest of the bunch, dating back 50 years.

Every Beetle model comes with a small vase behind the steering wheel.

It means drivers can add their favourite flower to liven up the dashboard - or use it as a pen holder for the shopping list.

Renault boot chute

Another driver parking right up behind you can be frustrating if you need to open your boot.

But with Renault's boot chute feature, you can access rear storage even in tight spots.

The special hatch comes with the Modus model and can make life easier for busy shoppers.

Ollie Parsons, Head of Sales and Client Services UK at CitNOW, said: “The Volkswagen Golf GTI golf ball gear knob was voted as the most iconic hidden feature - it might even be the difference between someone buying the Golf GTI or looking at a rival.

“All these secret or fun features will delight a buyer who’s bought a car before realising they got more than they bargained for.