With co-driver Ryo Hirakawa, the Aucklander finished up fifth fastest in their Keeper TOM'S Lexus LC 500 in Saturday's testing.

"It hasn't been a lot of running, especially as we have a new car," said Cassidy. "But I'm pleased with how it's gone." Last year Cassidy, the former double Toyota Racing Series champion, drove a Lexus RC F in the series.

"We were strong at Okayama (they topped the time sheets both days). So, I'm really excited to get stuck into what I'm sure will be a tight season."

At Fuji Cassidy and Hirakawa were only two tenths of a second behind the fastest time, with Lexus locking out the top five fastest positions.

"The gaps at Fuji were even closer than what they were at Okayama," said Cassidy.

The first event of the eight-round championship will be back at that track in a fortnight, where Cassidy and Hirakawa will share the driving over a 300 kms race.

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