Toyota Wrap Up Three-Day Test at Suzuka

The Toyota team completed on Wednesday their final overseas testing session at the Suzuka circuit, which hosted the final race of the season ten days ago.

Finn Mika Salo worked the first two days of the session, while teammate Allan McNish took over for the final day. Both concentrated on collecting data, continuing the developement of launch control and further work on engine mapping and car set-up.

"For me it was a very good test," said Salo. "We did not test any technical update but we learned a lot about the circuit. It was exciting being back in Japan with such a big interest in Toyota F1."

Salo's best time was 1:38.02 after 105 laps, while McNish, who completed 52 laps around the Japanese circuit, set a fastest lap of 1:38.89, compared to Michael Schumacher's pole position time of 1:32.484. The team's progress was hampered by problems with the hydraulic and fuel pressure, but they were pleased with their work.

"It was good day to reacquaint myself with the Suzuka circuit," added McNish. "We tried to find the various settings, but unfortunately we stopped a bit before the end of the session with a mechanical problem. Nevertheless I found it a worthwhile day's testing."