BTCC debutants United Autosports set their sights on a top-ten finish this season ahead of this weekends season opener at Brands Hatch.

The endurance specialists, now turning their hand to touring cars, will field two Toyota Avensis' driven by BTCC returnee James Cole and rookie Glynn Gleddie.

Team owner Richard Dean says his Leeds based Anglo-American squad are keen to make a positive impression on the 32-strong grid following an encouraging pre-season program.

"Joining the BTCC is a big deal for us and we are keen to make a good first impression, which hopefully we have already managed to achieve in pre-season testing," said Dean.

"We spent the winter re-building James' Toyota while also building a brand new Toyota for Glynn. The guys at our workshop have done a great job getting everything ready for the Brands opener.

"We feel positive heading for Brands as we ran well there during testing. We are a new [BTCC] team with a new car and new staff gelling together but finishing in the top-10 is our realistic aim this season."

Cole, who has prior BTCC experience following his half season stint last year, remains cautious in placing expectations, stating their true pace has yet to be revealed.

"Testing has been really good and the team has quickly become accustomed to the Toyota," said Cole.

"I guess our 'true' pace compared to the opposition will only be revealed in qualifying on Saturday but I'm heading to Brands to compete and not just make up the numbers."