Toro Rosso has taken the covers off its striking STR12 machine to be driven by Carlos Sainz and Daniil Kvyat in the 2017 Formula 1 World Championship.

The Red Bull sister squad has produced a sleek design for its STR12 which features an eye catching new blue and red livery, courtesy of backing from Red Bull Cola.

Toro Rosso’s latest F1 fighter, built to F1’s new aerodynamic regulations, includes a shark fin engine cover, while the team has opted for a slender nose similar to the reigning world champions Mercedes.

The Faenza-based operation has a new engine for 2017 after agreeing a switch to Renault power units following a season utilising year-old Ferrari engines.

Toro Rosso’s new STR12 has already turned laps following a maiden run at Italy’s Misano circuit last week.

Team principal Franz Tost believes the addition of the improving Renault engine represents the best all round package the team has had at its disposal since the hybrid era began in 2014.

“For all Formula 1 fans, 2017 should be a year of excitement and uncertainty, as the sport’s technical regulations have undergone one of the biggest changes we have seen in a couple of decades,” said Tost.

“Everyone in the team has worked extremely hard to ensure we have a very competitive season.

“Our chassis is mated to what is possibly the most competitive engine we have had so far in the hybrid era, as we return to Renault power once more.

“Daniil Kvyat will be in his fourth year as a Formula 1 driver and Carlos Sainz will now tackle his third season with us.

“They are a very talented pairing and they have worked very hard over the winter to be ready for the additional physical challenges involved in driving these new and faster cars.”

Drivers Sainz and Kvyat will jump behind the wheel of the STR12 when pre-season testing begins in Barcelona later today.