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Chilton: Astra can't improve

Honda's British Touring Car Championship number one driver Tom Chilton believes that chief rivals Vauxhall may have reached the end of their development. He told the crowd at AUTOSPORT International that he thinks Honda can beat the all-conquering Astra this year.

"I think Vauxhall reached its peak last year," he said. "I know they think they can still find a little more speed, but I think that when they put the new bits on the car they might even find it is a little bit slower."

"I think our Civic will be the best car this year. I can't wait for the end of the test ban on January 28, and for the start of the season. Our car won't look very different externally but there are a lot of silly little things we've changed internally that will gain us time."

Chilton is excited about facing newly-arrived rear-wheel drive cars this year as well: "The BMW's strength is on the exit of the slow corners, but I think the wet is when they will really shine. I hope we'll have the legs on them."

A new series format - three races with no pitstops at each round - will also provide new challenges. "You won't want to have a big off in race one, because you'll lose out on two more chances to score points. And even though pitstops are gone it will be harder for the team, having to turn the car around three times."

Chilton's Honda team-mate has yet to be announced, but it won't be Matt Neal, who goes back to Team Dynamics. Alan Morrison is in the frame to retain his drive in the Arena-run team.

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