Button 'excited' about 2008 prospects

The British driver's hopes of fighting for victories last year were dashed from the start of the season after Honda's car proved uncompetitive.

But Button, who managed just six points during the season, insists 2007 was positive for the team in how it made them realise they were not on the right path.

"2007 as everybody knows was a very tough year for us," said Button. "But in a way I think it was a good year, because it made us realise that a few things needed to change and that we were going in the wrong direction.

"And we have had the chance to put them right. I am looking forward to 2008 - and not just 2008 but the future with Honda.

"For me the important thing is the improvement throughout the season. It's all well starting with a reasonably competitive car, but it's improving that's the key I feel - and for us to improve race-by-race compared to our competitors is what we need to do. And that's what we are aiming for.

"The car looks good. The idea behind it is fantastic, it is very exciting. From the racing point of view, the car looks good, but what is important is what is underneath."

Button said his goal remained winning the championship "sooner rather than later."

"Well you know the final aim has to be to win the world championship," added Button. "I think that is everyone's aim in Formula One, but for us it is definitely possible. That's my personal aim and I know it's everyone's in the team.

"Hopefully it is sooner rather than later, but first of all we have got to work with this car and improve race-by-race, and that is necessary to have a good car for next season."

Teammate Rubens Barrichello, who last season failed to score any points for the first time in his F1 career, said his feelings about the new car were positive following his maiden test last week.

"It was great," said Barrichello. "It is always a great pleasure to drive the car. It's that burning feeling inside your stomach. You know that feeling of driving the car. It was a shakedown, I have only completed 30 laps, and it felt well, it felt balanced.

"There was still some aerodynamic parts missing so it was just a shakedown. I think next week's test is the one that starts to count.

"It's funny but it is like the beginning (of my career) for me. When I stay too long in Brazil I tend to overdrive the car on the road, so I miss the driving and it's 16th (season) with pleasure."