Toyota Encouraged after Hungaroring Test

Finn Mika Salo and Scot Allan McNish wrapped-up on Thursday a three-day testing session for the Toyota team at the Hungaroring circuit in Budapest.

The Japanese outfit, who will make their racing debut in the 2002 season after spending 2001 carrying out an intensive development programme, presented a new engine for the test, and both drivers were encouraged by its performance.

"The new spec engine was a definite improvement," said McNish. "I concentrated most of the test on setting various parameters as well as working on the usual standard test procedures.

"We did many kilometres again, which proves the endurance of the engine. I also found a pretty good balance with the chassis, which is very positive."

The team continued working on the development of their electronics, launch control and traction control systems, with Salo being the quickest of the duo.

The Finn completed a total of 230 laps with a best time of 1:20.64, while McNish's best was 1:20.66. This year's pole position time at the Hungarian circuit was 1:14.059.

"This test we have been doing some different gearshift strategies working on up and downshifts as well as some distance-related differentials," Salo said. "I also did some launch control work, which was feeling much nicer. We are just continuing with our work from the last test and making some more steps ahead, so I am happy."