Ford Pipes Engine Note Into Focus ST Cabin

The FordFordUnited Kingdom, 1909 > present33 models
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Focus STFord Focus ST EcoBoostUnited Kingdom, 2012 > present9 photos
is just starting to arrive at US dealers to give American consumers the first taste of Ford's modern hot hatch. In addition to the 250ps engine and modified exterior, Ford has worked hard on the ST's interior not only on improving it but also piping the engine note into the cabin.

Ford calls the device the Sound Symposer, and it amplifies the engines sound and sends the sound through a pipe into the passenger compartment. There is a valve in the pipe that opens under heavy acceleration and doubles in-cabin engine volume. During normal operation, the valve is closed, which makes the Focus ST as quiet as any other Focus.

“Even racing drivers appreciate refinement on the road, but when the flag drops, a rich engine note like the Focus ST’s is one of the best noises you can hear. Not only is an on-song engine easy on the ear of any performance car fan, but it also delivers valuable information about what’s happening under the bonnet and provides an important reference for drivers who need to use all of their senses at the wheel,” said Ford World Touring Car Championship driver Tom Chilton.