Franz Tost believes Toro Rosso can outperform McLaren in 2018

Toro Rosso team principal Franz Tost believes the Honda engine is doing a "fantastic job" and thinks his team can be more competitive than McLaren this season.

McLaren endured three torrid years using Honda engines, consistently finding themselves struggling for power and having to take numerous grid penalties for engine problems.

The Woking based team switched to Renault engines after the 2017 season, with Toro Rosso doing the opposite; changing from Renault to Honda engines.

From what we have seen in testing, Toro Rosso's gamble seems to have paid off, with there being no major issues with the Honda engine.

McLaren on the other hand have had a few issues with their engine, most recently the oil leak that forced Fernando Alonso into the garage and a six hour wait until the engine was replaced.

Tost told Sky Sports:I am convinced they will supply us with a very competitive package.

"I am sure that during the season we will catch up and by the end of the season we will have a very competitive car

"Our target is to be in the front part of the midfield."

Brendon Hartley completed over 100 laps on the second day of the second test, and Pierre Gasly has also reached that milestone this winter.

McLaren on the other hand are still waiting to find their groove with the new engine supplier.

Tost added: "I am convinced by the end of the season we will have a more competitive package than them (McLaren).