Brazilian GP: Nico Rosberg says US GP repeat must be avoided

A week after his US GP defeat, Rosberg has been quickest in every session in Brazil so far, beating 2014 Formula 1 title rival and Mercedes team-mate Lewis Hamilton to pole by 0.033 seconds after topping all three qualifying segments.

But having failed to convert his pace into victory last weekend at Austin, Rosberg was not getting carried away after qualifying.

"It's a perfect job only if it works out tomorrow," he said.

"Up to now it has been going well and I'm in the best place to be tomorrow, but of course I need to make it happen in the race, unlike Austin."

Rosberg believes he has addressed the weakness that cost him the win last Sunday.

"I understand what I need to improve from Austin," he said.

"I didn't find my rhythm in the race, I understand that, I'm confident I can improve that for tomorrow.

"It's a different situation, we even did a long run this morning in the same conditions we expect tomorrow."

Hamilton, who leads the championship by 24 points, said he made minor errors on his best lap but he had enjoyed the battle.

"It was great fun," said the Briton after holding provisional pole for a few seconds prior to Rosberg finishing his last lap.

"Nico did a great lap and I lost a bit of time in Turn 10 [Bico de Pato] and a tiny bit in Turn 1 [Senna S].

"It was great, having to keep going out and keep fighting, and it should always be that close."