Porsche’s 2017-spec 919 Hybrid has broken cover, ahead of its formal launch later this week. (En Français)

The updated LMP1 contender was caught testing this weekend at Paul Ricard, in preparation for the start of the FIA World Endurance Championship season next month.

While featuring new aero, particularly in the nose with enlarged headlights, the 919 Hybrid retains the same monocoque for the fourth consecutive year, although with some mechanical changes as well.

It’s unclear if the car is sporting its Le Mans low-downforce kit, or testing standard bodywork, with WEC rules now limiting LMP1 manufacturers t only two different aero kits per season.

The car will be officially presented on Friday at Monza, site of the weekend’s pre-season Prologue test, with all six of the German manufacturer’s drivers, including new recruits Andre Lotterer, Nick Tandy and Earl Bamber, set to be in attendance.