Sarrazin debuts in Paul Ricard test.

Recently announced test driver Stephane Sarrazin got his first taste of the Panasonic Toyota TF102 in a two-day session at Paul Ricard in the South of France this week.

The Frenchman climbed aboard just days after the team had completed its first ever participation in a grand prix, culminating in Mika Salo's sixth place.

Sarrazin carried out tests on the car's electronic set-ups, and launch and traction control systems, as well as new engine specifications, during his two days at the wheel. He also ran through a programme of new aerodynamic parts, as the team enjoyed a rare, 100 per cent dry, test.

"Driving the Toyota TF102 for the first time, I am very satisfied with the results we have achieved in this session," Sarrazin reported, "The car feels quite good, although I had to get used to the left foot braking.

"We decided to do an engine reliability test that worked out positively, and both engines we used ran for more than 400 kilometres before they reached the end of their lives."

Panasonic Toyota Racing will move to the Circuit de Catalunya for its next test session after the Malaysian Grand Prix. Young driver Ryan Briscoe will make his official test debut on Wednesday, before Salo takes over on 21-22 March.