Pastor Maldonado wants improved qualifying time for Abu Dhabi

Pastor Maldonado is looking to post an improved qualifying time at the final round of the 2014 Formula 1 season in Abu Dhabi.

The Venezuelan believes Lotus Renault can make an impact at the Yas Marina Circuit, but knows that qualifying higher up the grid is crucial.

"I think it's going to be tough for us in general to be honest but it shouldn't be too bad," he is quoted as saying by Richland F1.

"I think it's crucial that we try and improve our qualifying pace because as soon as we are in the top twelve, things should be on the up and we'll be in a good position to fight for points.

"We've seen that our race pace is quite competitive so it's all about starting from the highest grid position possible."

Maldonado was the slowest runner during the Brazil qualifying and lined up 16th on the grid, finishing 12th.