Toro Rosso’s Carlos Sainz Jr is looking forward to a successful 2016 season after enjoying a promising debut campaign in Formula 1.

The 21-year-old enjoyed seven points finishes during 2015, with his best showing coming at the United States Grand Prix in October when he secured seventh place.

The Spaniard accumulated 18 points to finish 15th in the drivers’ championship standings, above the likes of former world champions Jenson Button and Fernando Alonso, and he admits he was pleased with his rookie campaign.

Sainz said: “I end this year with a positive feeling. I think we’ve done a good first year and, even though we’ve had some inconsistencies, overall I think we managed to create a good impression and learn a lot.”

The youngster is now targeting further improvements during 2016 and is looking forward to coming back refreshed following the winter break.

He added: “I’m now looking forward to next year. I think the winter break will be very good for me and the team. I always come back stronger after the winter, and I can’t wait to see what next year brings.”

Toro Rosso will use a Ferrari engine next season and Sainz is convinced the change can benefit the team even if they will be using year-old power units.

“I’m convinced it will be a step in the right direction and that we’ll have an even more competitive car and I’ll keep growing as a driver in Formula 1,” he said.

Sainz is 251.00 to claim the drivers’ championship in 2016, with Mercedes duo Lewis Hamilton (1.60) and Nico Rosberg (3.80) expected to go head to head for the world title once again.