Grosjean believes his 2018 car is the best Haas have ever produced

Romain Grosjean has said that the VF-18 is Haas’ best F1 car yet and believes this yea will be more straightforward for development.

Haas showed impressive pace in testing, with both Grosjean and team mate Kevin Magnussen lapping near the top of the timesheets, without many reliability issues.

The American team, in their third year of Formula One, are looking to spring a surprise on some of the more established midfield teams, such as Force India and Williams.

Grosjean is confident in his car ahead of this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix, saying: “The VF-18 has a very good baseline. The feeling I get in the car is very good, which is the main thing. It’s a good-looking car.

“We know where we can update it and try to get more performance from it. We’re going to work on that.

“I think it has good consistency and a very good platform that all of us drivers want.

“I think it’s the best car we’ve ever had so far for Haas F1 Team.”

Grosjean was also positive about the reliability of his car, something that was lacking last season as the Frenchman finished 13th in the drivers’ standings.

“I think 2017 was our most challenging season due to the change in the regulations

“I think for 2018, we’ve prepared very well, and early on.

“I’m hoping we’ve done a great job.

“Obviously, we’re going to see from the first races where we are, then try and keep up the development.

“I think this year’s a bit more straightforward.”