James Key was appointed Technical Director, along with Adrian Sutil, Markus Winkelhock and Roman Rusinov as test drivers.

[3][4] Engines for the M16 were purchased from Toyota, and Key noted significant aerodynamic improvements - especially around the rear of the car - from the previous seasons EJ15B.

[5] During the early tests, the M16 posted strong reliability, however it was noted the car had some unique handling characteristics for the drivers to get used to before the season opened in Bahrain.

Early results were poor, with significant numbers of retirements that only worsened as the season progressed, despite positive comments from the Midland technical team.

The livery was changed to orange and silver, however results did not improve and the team finished 10th in the Constructors' Championship with 0 points.