Schwarz urges caution over 2002

The former European Champion has only tested for a couple of days in his new mount so far, but he says that while he and the Motor Sport Developments-run team are aware of changes that need to be made, many of them won't be possible until a fresh homologation of the Accent. That's not expected to arrive until March or April.

Schwarz, who came to Hyundai after three years with Skoda, said: "In basic terms the car has been quite encouraging - it's certainly a step ahead of the Octavia in terms of its technology and a lot of the little tricks. Of course there are things that we need to develop - I know I can't use Kenneth Eriksson's differential settings from last year so we'll spend this coming weekend fine-tuning them.

"The Accent's handling seems quite good, although there is a little bit of understeer that we can only really change with a new homologation. I'd say with the limits of time and the hectic schedule, it'll take a few months for me to get really settled in. We have been able to put our finger on exactly what needs to be changed, and I know that when it arrives it should be a big improvement."

Schwarz's performances will be closely scrutinised in 2002 - rallying's profile in his native Germany is set to rise rapidly when the Rally Deutschland brings world championship-level action to the country this summer.

For a full Q&A with Schwarz click HERE.