CA:
Obviously we are still working flat-out on the current car and the new car. But it is difficult when both cars are being developed. The team has got to decide where the effort goes - whether we spend time on the current car or whether we focus on the new car and that is not my decision. But from my side I will be giving everything from the start and I see no reason why we can’t be relatively competitive with a few small steps on the current car. Hopefully then that will lead into a good transition with the new car.
Crash.net:
Have you driven the new Impreza yet?
CA:
No I haven’t driven it. I am not sure of the testing plan at the moment. I am in Australia and I am not sure when we will get a chance for that but I guess it might be a couple of months away.
Crash.net:
What are your targets for next season?
CA:
I would just like to keep improving, even more consistency, even more speed and try and start getting a consistent level of podiums. We obviously hoped for that this year but it was difficult and the best results we had were a few fourth places, but no podiums and that is where we want to get back to. We want to get into a position where we can hopefully fight for a championship in the next year or two.
Crash.net:
All the teams will switch to using Pirelli tyres next year and there will be no-run flat mousse. How much difference is that going to make?
CA:
It is going to be interesting - that is for sure. Really everyone was on the same tyres this year but we had a lot of choices. Next year the tyre decision will be pretty simple - there will be usually one or two compounds to choose from and it is going to be down to a bit of driver skill, with regard to punctures as well, with no anti-deflation devices. It is going to take a different set-up on the car too because the tyres are designed a bit differently. The tyres are stiffer and stronger [to try and prevent punctures] and the result of that is less grip. It is going to be a new challenge.
Crash.net:
How much testing have you got planned prior to the Rallye Monte Carlo in January?
CA:
We have got some testing in the first week of January, I think. We are testing in France. We have got a two-day test for that and then obviously we will be doing some testing for Sweden as well.
Crash.net:
Subaru started fielding three-cars on all events from the Rally Finland - has it been useful having Xavier Pons in the team?
CA:
Xavier is a really good guy and good to work with. He has brought some experience from other teams and that all helps. I think he is learning as we move forward together as a team and it can only help to have extra feedback and extra input from a new driver and someone of his level.
