Nico Rosberg says new style of racing good for F1

Although some fans have complained that the new fuel-efficiency regulations have robbed the sport of some of its spectacle, Rosberg feels that the 2014 rules are actually delivering a big thrill.

Rosberg claims the challenge of getting the most performance out of the car, as well as the lack of downforce, means that there is more to get excited about this season.

"It's been good for F1," the German told AUTOSPORT. "It has shuffled everything about, which is great. The sport needs that.

"And it is contemporary. It is all very, very energy efficient, which is a good direction to take.

"Driving-wise, it is good fun too. It is slower than last year, which I don't like, but I have got used to it and I don't notice any more that I am slower.

"It is all good. It is very complicated in the car of course, because there is so much going on, and it will take some time to get on top of all that."

Valtteri Bottas, who had to charge his Williams through the field twice in Australia, said he had never enjoyed racing so much.

"It was fun. It was proper racing; it was the most fun I have ever had," he said.

"For me there was no fuel saving at all. The safety car always helps, because you can save some fuel and push, plus the tyres seemed to be more consistent than last year.

"I think it was good fun and hopefully good for the spectators."