Rob Austin delighted with maiden 2014 test

Rob Austin reckons he is set for his most competitive BTCC season yet after a “highly encouraging” first test of the year at Silverstone.

Running in an all-black livery which was revealed late last week, Austin completed a day of running around the circuit’s National layout, which will be used by the BTCC later this season.

Despite the wet weather which blighted the day, Austin said he was delighted with what he achieved.

He said: “We’re already ahead of the game. Sherman has run perfectly straight out of the box and just feels more sorted than ever. The team have done a brilliant job in the build of the car – it’s a real work of art.

“Even though it’s been wet and cold here at Silverstone, we’ve still gathered some valuable data and worked through a number of set-up changes which have told us a lot. Plus, as a driver, it’s great to blow away the cobwebs.

“This is the first time our team has had the luxury of a proper pre-season testing programme for touring cars – we have another six or so test days still to come – and I’m delighted by where we are already.”