Nico Hulkenberg surprised by car balance after first day of running in Barcelona

The German, who was having only his second full day in the car, was second fastest behind Sebastian Vettel on the timesheets after completing 97 laps on the first day of this week's Barcelona test.

"We had a good day, it was a positive programme," he said. "We started with some aero gathering this morning, some tyre comparisons with different compounds, and then long runs this afternoon.

"Generally there were no reliability issues, so there was a very positive impression of the car and a good feeling today."

With Barcelona demanding good aerodynamic performance from the car, Hulkenberg said he was encouraged by how good his car felt around the Spanish GP venue.

"It was pretty good, surprisingly well," he explained. "Maybe it suits a little bit better here than Jerez. I am also getting better. It is my second day, as Jerez was my first day after a long time out of the car. Each day, each kilometre is better."

He added: "Reliability wise, the whole picture just looks very good right now. We are bedding in right now. Today, after lunch, I got back in and felt comfortable again. It feels a bit more like home - I am going through the sensation of that feeling. So, so far so good."