Ford duo promise stronger 2009

Although Hirvonen kept the championship battle alive until the penultimate rally last year, he had struggled to match Sebastien Loeb and Latvala in the opening rounds.

He is determined not to repeat that slow start this time.

"I learned much from 2008 that I'm sure will benefit me this year," said Hirvonen. "After a too cautious start, my speed increased during the second half of the season and that's how I need to start 2009.

"There are only 12 rallies so it's important to score on every rally. There is no room for zero points from events because there are fewer rallies to make up for it."

Latvala made an explosive start to 2008, becoming the World Rally Championship's youngest ever winner in his second start with the works Ford team, but a series of accidents marred the second half of his year.

"Consistency is an area in which I want to improve in 2009," the Finn admitted. "I want to eliminate the kind of ups and downs that I experienced at times last season.

"This time one year ago I was very nervous ahead of my debut in the Ford team. I went through so many things last year, gaining experience and learning about the mental side of the WRC, that I feel relaxed and confident for the new season."

He hopes to at least be in contention for the drivers' championship in 2009.

"I have two targets - to help Ford regain the manufacturers' title and to fight for the drivers' title," said Latvala.

"It's not a target to win the drivers' title - that's different - but I want to be able to challenge for it."