Jerez F1 test: Pastor Maldonado calls 2015 Lotus totally different

Maldonado drove the Mercedes-powered E23 for the first time at Jerez on Monday, completing 41 laps before stopping on track with a gearbox problem.

Despite the team missing the first day of the test due to build delays and not getting through a full programme on the second, Maldonado says his first experience with the E23 was a positive one - particularly compared to last winter.

"It's difficult to say something because we only did a few laps today, but it's quite positive," he said.

"It's looking completely different from what we had last year, in terms of reliability and how the entire package is working. So quite a positive day.

"Maybe we were expecting to run a bit more, but we had a small issue in the car. Which is normal, because we have changed quite a lot. We have a new engine, a big revolution with the car.

"It's another car. It's not a continuation of what we had last year.

"It's maybe a different philosophy, but it will have a big impact in the driving point of view, and hopefully in the performance as well."

Maldonado added that the team's programme was based on mileage, not performance, which made reaching any firm conclusions about the chassis and new Mercedes engine package difficult.

"We've been not looking for any performance," he said.

"We ran with a lot of fuel, we didn't touch the set-up, but the car seems to be consistent, quite reactive, easy to feel, the sensations are good. It's a good day, a good first day."