Red Bull F1 team developing at its best, Ricciardo believes

The Australian was promoted from Toro Rosso to Red Bull in 2014, which coincided with its dip in form after winning four successive F1 drivers' and constructors' titles.

But with an improved relationship with engine supplier Renault and an impressive rate of development on its RB12 chassis, Red Bull has emerged as pace-setter Mercedes' closest challenger as this season has passed.

"Everything we put on the car, maybe our feedback is helping as well, but all the updates seem to be going in the right direction," Ricciardo said.

"Since I've been with Red Bull it's been the best year for that.

"A lot of things we've used or put on the car have worked."

Ricciardo secured his first win since August 2014 last Sunday in Malaysia, with team-mate Max Verstappen finishing second to secure Red Bull's first one-two finish since the 2013 Brazilian Grand Prix.

Red Bull moved further clear of Ferrari in the constructors' championship, extending its advantage to 46 points with five races to go.

Having already said that Verstappen's arrival has made him raise his level in F1, Ricciardo added that the strong performance of both drivers is helping the team push forward.

"The level me and Max are maintaining is helping the team," he said.

"We're certainly pushing each other. We're both driving at a pretty good level."

Verstappen believes he has also had to respond to compete with Ricciardo since earning promotion from Toro Rosso before the Spanish Grand Prix in May.

"I also had to step up," he said.

"Straight away there was a good connection. It's good to work with Daniel - he's very open, a relaxed guy.

"We share everything and that's bringing the performance up as well."