The Riverside Journals - Festivals Issue 38 - FULL | Page 94

Renault Captur

Festival
cars

By Richard Yarrow

taying at a festival means turning up with a tent, sleeping bag, clothes,
food and drink. Add in the fact that it will probably be held in a rural or
semi-rural location, and it means public transport is a non-starter. It’s
your car or nothing.
Having one with a decent-sized boot is best, and a hatchback or estate body
style is more practical than a saloon. People-carriers and off-roaders – what the
car industry calls MPVs and SUVs respectively – are excellent because they’re
practical and versatile. Something with four-wheel drive might be useful, as
long wet grass in the car park can be tricky when it comes to traction.
Did you know many of today’s new cars have festival-friendly features? Fold-flat rear seats
can increase interior space, while a chilled glovebox for perishable snacks is great. Better still
is a 12-volt socket in the cargo area, so you can take a camping fridge and keep it powered up.
However, some vehicle manufacturers have gone the extra mile, with clever design to
make visiting a festival that bit easier. Here’s our pick of the best:

94 the riverside journals

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Citroen C4 Picasso