Magnussen was 'quite nervous' before Renault debut

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Kevin Magnussen admits he was "quite nervous" about driving an F1 car again ahead of his first day testing for Renault.

The last time Magnussen drove an F1 car in anger was in Melbourne last year, where he failed to start the Australian Grand Prix as the power unit failed on the installation lap to the grid. While Magnussen enjoyed a productive return - completing 111 laps and setting the fourth fastest time - he admits he was unsure how he would feel driving again.

"Today I felt good and normal," Magnussen said. "That was really good because I was quite nervous going in because I always think about racing and driving and I forgot a little bit so when I got in I got the feeling back."

And Magnussen was left with a positive first impression, saying it is difficult to compare the Renault with last year's McLaren.

"It is a little bit different but it is a long time since I drove the McLaren car so you do forget how it feels a little bit. There are things that I can see are different.

"We have a lot work to do and some things are better, the base and balance of the car, the characteristics of the balance at least, which is good for my driving style. It is easy to drive and predictable but obviously you always need more downforce and power so hopefully it will stay like that when that goes in the car."

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