Honda reserve judgement on revamped car

The Japanese manufacturer tested their revised RA107 behind close doors at Jerez last week and had high hopes that the improvements to the car would lift them much closer the front of the field.

But with Button and Barrichello failing to get inside the top ten during Friday's two practice sessions, the duo are unsure about just how much of a step forward the car is.

Speaking in the paddock at Magny-Cours, Barrichello said: "The times show no improvement but the car feels a little bit better traction-wise. But it's difficult to say. I don't know if everybody made improvements but we're still struggling to be in the midfield.

"We have to wait and see on Saturday because people could be playing with fuel levels. It's hard to know where we are yet. Magny-Cours has never been too kind to the team.

"Testing today I felt the car improved a little bit, but compared to the times of the others it's not good at all. Honestly, we need to wait until qualifying to see where we are.

"Today, the car felt a little bit better but if we're still 17th or 18th then it's not enough."

Button added: "It is better, I don't know by how much - it's a better car to drive and the consistency is much better. We still don't know where we stand, and won't until qualifying.

"Most of it is better and the consistency is in the car and the long runs. Over one lap I don't know how much quicker it is - but we can't compare until tomorrow. It's a tough one but the car does feel better over a long run.

"You always want more - but I think it's a definite step forward, it just depends who else has made a step forward too. I'm sure we've progressed more than other teams but I don't know where we stand.

"We won't be challenging for a podium, and certainly we won't be with the BMWs or Renaults either."