Honda says Fernando Alonso's seventh place finish at the Belgian Grand Prix is proof it took a step forward with its latest update last weekend.

Honda spent seven engine tokens on upgrading its internal combustion engine and turbocharger ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, leading to improved efficiency and, therefore, more power. Spa-Francorchamps is a power-sensitive track where McLaren expected to struggle, leading Honda engine boss Yusuke Hasegawa to believe Jenson Button's ninth place qualifying result and Alonso's race from last on the grid to seventh is proof of a step forward.

"Fernando drove a brilliant race, and the team did a phenomenal job to get him from the very back of the grid to finish P7 - and at Spa too!" Hasegawa said. "Jenson was unlucky to retire at the very start of the race, when he was unexpectedly hit from behind. He had a strong start to the weekend, and it was a great shame that he couldn't capitalise on his very good P9 starting position.

"This is another confirmation that our power unit has indeed taken a step forward, and I'm happy and thankful to everyone for all their hard work."

Honda has three engine tokens left for the rest of the season, but is targeting a big step over the winter to help McLaren challenge for wins again in 2017.

"Of course, we're still hungry and not completely satisfied by these results [in Spa], but after each race we go home encouraged by our progress and this one is no different. Next up is Monza, which is probably the toughest circuit of the year for us, but we'll prepare as usual to give our all."