Drivers give Sachsenring changes the thumbs up

The undulating Saxony track has been extensively reworked over the winter as part of its deal to host the German 'bike grand prix, and is now 3.74km in length. A completely new section of track includes a stunning downhill stretch, with a gradient of 12 per cent, reminiscent of Spa's La Source to Eau Rouge section.

"When you look at the drop you think, 'do we really have to drive down there in our cars or is it a ski slope?'" quipped Audi's Christian Abt.

Even the unflappable series champion Bernd Schneider of Mercedes-Benz was moved to say: "I especially like the fact there are so many fast corners here, which you can drive through at speeds of up to 170kph. That is not just sheer driving pleasure, but it is a big challenge for all of us."

Opel's lead driver, Manuel Reuter, commented: "The new part of the track increases its existing complexity with slow parts, fast corners and unique up and down sections. The track is great."