Chilton tests for Honda

The teenager, who raced a Barwell Vauxhall this season, is thought to be close to a deal to drive for the team next season. Honda plans to field three cars in 2003, but has yet to confirm whether its current drivers, Andy Priaulx and Alan Morrison, will stay on with the squad.

Chilton completed over 50 laps of the Snetterton circuit on Thursday, and was impressed with the Honda outfit. "It's the first time I've driven for a factory team and the experience was just fantastic," he said.

"The Civic is one of the top cars in the BTCC and, being smaller than the Astra I raced in 2002, it felt more precise. I've now got all my fingers and toes crossed as it would be just incredible to race for Honda next year."

The team seemed equally impressed with Chilton, team principal Mike Earle saying: "He's clearly a remarkable young man with enormous potential. Although completely new to the Civic, he posted some very competitive lap times and provided us with some excellent technical feedback. It's difficult to believe he's still only 17!"