Fisichella upbeat after Ricard test

The French team have struggled for pace so far this season, with a fifth place at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix being their best result yet.

However, Fisichella yesterday managed to set the second fastest time, just 0.017 seconds slower than Ferrari's Kimi Raikkonen, and most importantly felt his R27 has taken a step forward, at least on the quicker circuits.

"Here in the low-downforce configuration the car seems a bit better," the Roman told autosport.com. "Together with tyres, there is more grip and better braking too.

"I again tried the (new) front suspension and it does give a better turn-in, so less understeer and also more consistency in the rear, which is nice.

"We had no mechanical problems and it was a very positive test. The best time was a good lap, i did that with supersoft tyres and i could feel the grip straight away especially in the rear, it really gave a good traction.

"So it looks all encouraging for Montreal."

The Canadian Grand Prix will be held in three weeks' time at Montreal's Gilles Villeneuve circuit.

Next Sunday's race, however, will take place around the twisty Monte Carlo streets. While Fisichella is looking forward to returning to the Principality, he avoided making predictions.

"As for Monaco, it is a lottery, no one knows," he said. "It will be a massive fight in qualifying and we will see.

"I do like Monaco: I will be on my boat with my family, which is nice, so I do look forward to it."