Fernando Alonso has played down expectations about Honda's 'new' engine ahead of the Austrian Grand Prix this weekend.

Amid strong rumours about a McLaren-Honda divorce, the struggling Japanese manufacturer tested the 'spec 3' unit in Baku and both drivers will race it in Spielberg.

"I am looking forward to seeing our performance," said Honda F1 boss Yusuke Hasegawa.

However, Spaniard Alonso is not optimistic.

At an FIA event in Vienna, he is quoted by EFE news agency as saying: "I think the engine is good for the team to do a press release, but it is practically the same.

"Any upgrade is welcome, but there is no change with the new engine. We already tried it in Baku practice, but we were last and second to last."

Asked what he is expecting from the 'spec 3' Honda in Austria, he answered bluntly: "Nothing."

Alonso's comments come amid intense speculation that he is targeting a seat at Mercedes or Ferrari for 2018, but he said his future is not a topic "until September".