Renault will be bringing a new front wing to the Japanese Grand Prix as the French manufacturer looks to close the gap to McLaren.

The Enstone based team are locked in a tight battle for fifth place in the constructor’s championship with Toro Rosso and Racing Point, and are looking to stay ahead after an encouraging last few races.

Renault have scored points in their last four races, with Nico Hulkenberg finishing 10th in Russia, although Daniel Ricciardo retired with damage sustained after a collision with Romain Grosjean earlier in the race.

The Suzuka circuit requires high downforce levels and strong stability in order to have a good weekend and Renault will bring an updated wing in order to maximise their front-end grip.

“The drivers enjoy Suzuka as it’s a good, old school racing track.” commented Renault’s Chassis Technical Director, Nick Chester.

“It’s very long at 5.807km, with lots of elevation changes, long straights ending in tight chicanes or hairpins and interesting corners.

“It’s a challenge to get right, requiring strong front-end grip for Sector 1 with high speed change of direction but with enough stability to give driver confidence.

“We are bringing a new front wing to Suzuka. We also have a new chassis wing – externally the changes are pretty subtle, but we expect more downforce and grip as a result.”

Although Renault are 33 points behind fourth placed McLaren in the constructor’s championship, Nico Hulkenberg believes they can still challenge for fourth, but they must be cleaner on Sunday’s.

“It’s obvious we missed out on points in Singapore and Russia and that’s frustrating given our competitive pace and qualifying positions.” added Hulkenberg.

“Our Sunday’s especially have to be cleaner, but that’s down to a range of factors: on my side, on the team’s side and some things we can’t control.

“We have to target big points in Japan.”