Franchitti leads Mid-Ohio test

The Andretti-Green driver lapped in 1:07.6667, within six-tenths of the last Champ Car pole time at the track, set in 2003.

"When you take the horsepower into consideration, I think (the times) were very impressive," said Franchitti.

"And I think there is more to come. You'll see us even quicker when we come here to qualify.

"I'm glad I had some experience because we missed the entire morning with some technical problems. So the day started badly and ended very well."

Helio Castroneves, who was a winner at the track in Champ Car, was second quickest, 0.1004 seconds slower than points leader Franchitti.

The Brazilian was thrilled to be back at the Lexington circuit.

"I have to say, this place is awesome," said Castroneves.

"This is one of the places I always enjoy. This is a true road course. It combines fast corners, slow corners, difficult to pass, elevation. It's really, really fun.

"The surface of the track changed. It's much smoother. Every time you go out, you're improving your times. I can't wait to come back and race.

"I remember there used to be cones at the edge of the corner. Now they don't have that, so that took some getting used to. They changed the characteristics of the place, but it's still fun.

"Our cars are unbelievable in the corners. It's very hard. You really have to push, push."

Marco Andretti, Buddy Rice and Scott Dixon completed the top five.

The IndyCars return to Lexington to race on 22 July.