McLaren Formula 1 driver Jenson Button is content with the team's progress ahead of this weekend's Chinese Grand Prix.
The team, who are working with Honda this season, struggled for pace at the Australian Grand Prix last month, but looked more competitive in Malaysia.
Despite both Button and Fernando Alonso retiring at the Sepang International Circuit during the last race, Button feels confident about what lies ahead for McLaren.
"We need and want more downforce to fight with the guys around us, and we still have a lot to do with the power unit, but our basic car is good," BBC Sport quotes Button as saying.
"If you look at our high-speed pace, compared to the Force India and Sauber, then we are much stronger. So we're moving in the right direction, and I'm already surprised we are racing cars. It's great to see."
Reigning champion Lewis Hamilton currently leads the way in the driver rankings.