Supercars drivers are yet to be convinced that changes to the Nobbys hairpin will make overtaking easier on the Newcastle track.
Tickford Racing's Chaz Mostert said on Thursday that he hoped the slightly longer Nobbys Road entry would make it easier to pass.
"I feel like that corner can't be any worse than it was," the Mustang driver said.
"It looks like it's a bit straighter. Looks like it opens up a bit, but it's still quite narrow, so we'll just have to wait and see.
"It's quite a tight, technical track. It is more exciting from lap times and qualifying than maybe the race."
Champion elect Scott McLaughlin said he had not analysed the corner in detail.
"Everyone says there's going to be a bit of passing," he said.
"It looks like it's going to be tighter, at least. Whether that changes what gear we're in will be interesting.
"Obviously they've made it because they think it can impact the racing."
McLaughlin said sections of newly laid track in the Zaara and Scott street "staircase" could aid passing.
