Button pleased with Honda's pace

Button, fresh from scoring his maiden Grand Prix win in Hungary three weeks ago, showed consistent pace for Honda, setting the third fastest time.

"I'm pleased with the way today has gone," said Button. "So we'll sit down with Michelin this evening and discuss which is the better tyre option for the weekend.

"I had a small mechanical problem at the start of this afternoon's session, which cost me some time when we had to take the floor off, but everything is okay. The changes that we've made over the day have been positive so I'm happy with where we are at the moment."

The Japanese outfit enjoyed a positive day, despite third driver Anthony Davidson being forced to replace his engine after the morning session.

Davidson was fourth quickest, with Brazilian Rubens Barrichello down in tenth.

"A pretty straightforward day for us today although this morning I had a few set-up issues," Barrichello said. "This afternoon the car felt a little better and I'm quite pleased with the balance of the car now.

"There is some work to do to improve but generally I think we are moving in the right direction."