Romain Grosjean hopes his second season syndrome continues with Lotus

Grosjean's Lotus team-mate Kimi Raikkonen battles through the rain during qualifying in Melbourne. Photo: Glenn Dunbar (Image: LAT Photographic)

The Frenchman's record is pretty clear-cut: French Formula Renault, Formula Three Euro Series and GP2 champion – all titles that arrived in his second full season.

And after a full debut year that had more than a few bumpy moments, what are the odds on Grosjean making more leaps forward in 2013?

'There are 19 races but it would be fantastic for us,' said the likeable Frenchman, who for the time being is looking to secure a long-term drive in Formula One – rather than extending his impressive run.

'First we have to see how the car is, then I want to get to December, look behind me and be proud of what I did.

'I don't want to have to wait a long time to be confirmed. I want to be proud and happy, and then move forward from there.'

After a previously brief mid-season spell with Renault, Grosjean's first full term in 2012 was a mixture of impressive pace and ill-disciplined opening laps – and at one point a race ban from the FIA for his misdemeanours.

It almost certainly explained why Grosjean's seat took so long to be confirmed by the Hethel-backed oufit.

'There were great highs and lows,' added Grosjean, who finished last year with some consolidating races.

'It's no secret I've been working hard on myself to improve and the work hasn't stopped, it's still ongoing, and I hope I can again prove myself on track.

'Yes, I made some mistakes, it was my first year, but I still had three podiums and twice fought for wins, so on the other hand it wasn't too bad.

'I now know what I have to do this season, it's quite clear to me and makes things easier.'