Motorbase Performance made a return to red as its new car hit the track for the first time at Brands Hatch earlier this week.

Having previously announced the Kent squad's fresh look with the introduction of the fourth-generation Ford Focus, the team has now confirmed its three-strong driver line-up as well as completing the finishing touches on its latest weapon of choice in the BTCC.

Ollie Jackson had the honour of circling the 1.2-mile Indy Circuit in the new car for the first time and he was joined by Independents' champion Rory Butcher, whilst Andy Neate made his Motorbase bow shortly after his signing was confirmed on btcc.net.

"We had a great first day with the new car, it was a true testament to everyone who has been involved with getting this car ready," said team boss Oly Collins. "The car ran faultlessly which meant we could put plenty of miles on it and start to learn what makes it tick. We were fortunate with the weather too. A completely dry and mild morning followed by a fully wet afternoon was good to get both wet and dry running in.

"There were some very positive reactions from Ollie and Rory and we’re all looking forward to continuing our test programme. We’re not under any illusions, this is a brand new car and it's competing in a really tough Championship, we have a lot of work to do but the early signs are really good.

"Andy also got his first taste in a Motorbase car. After a few years out of motorsport he settled in very quickly using the RS. He enjoyed the car and got up to speed in the dry in the morning and then spent the afternoon enjoying the car in the rain. So all in all an extremely productive day."

Motorbase Performance continues its test programme before the entire BTCC grid gets together for the first time during the only official BTCC pre-season test at Silverstone on 17 March.

More images here – Photo Credit: Gary Hawkins