Are Honda set to overtake Renault?

Honda could be poised to surpass Renault and claim the more powerful engine according to reports in Spain and Germany.

Auto Motor und Sport and Marca say that in Russia, Honda will introduce its third version of their 2018 power unit.

Honda's Spec 3 engine will possess 35 more HP than its current power unit and consequently overtake Renault in the process.

Toro Rosso pair Pierre Gasly and Brendon Hartley are expected to take the penalties for Russia so they can push on with their new power units in Honda's home race, Japan, a week later.

Honda's gains are tribute to their hard work and determination, two attributes that would have undoubtedly had a big impact on Red Bull's decision to switch from Renault to the Japanese manufacturer for next season's power unit supplier.

Red Bull Team Principal, Christian Horner has expressed his belief and confidence in the engine supplier.

"They are pushing hard - we have confidence in what we see," Horner said. "The investment that we see going into the programme, the quality of personnel that are involved, things are very much moving in the right direction.

"Only time will tell, but I think you'll inevitably see more changes this year which is all part of the development process for 2019 and beyond."