The Roaring Executive Express with a Red Head – Honda Accord Euro R (CL7) Part 1

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Type R represents Honda’s special performance lineup. Since the debut of the first-ever NSX Type R (NA1) in 1992, Honda has released numerous R-badged models. For Honda fans, the “R” is nothing short of iconic. But if you had to choose a favorite, which one would it be? The EK9? EP3? FD2? Or perhaps the DC5, DC2, NA1, or NA2?

If I had to answer this question, my pick would be the fast yet practical Euro R, specifically the Accord Euro R (CL7) from the 7th-generation Accord lineup. That’s not to say I don’t love the others, especially the NA1 and NA2-R, which deserve legendary status. But the Accord Euro R’s unique blend of executive looks with a spirited personality has won my heart. 🖤🚗

For enthusiasts in mainland China, left-hand drive limitations mean most Type R and Euro R models remain out of reach, save for the rare US-spec DC2 imported through creative channels. However, Macau and Hong Kong tell a different story. Thanks to historical and legal circumstances, these regions use right-hand drive vehicles and can directly import Japanese domestic models. On a visit to Honda's Macau dealership, we had the privilege of seeing a personal favorite, the Accord Euro R.

Tracing the Euro R Legacy

The Accord Euro R spans two generations: the 6th-gen Accord (1998-2002) and the 7th-gen Accord. The former, launched in 2000 as a late-stage sport version of the 6th-gen, shares its platform with the 7th-gen Civic Type R EP3, built in the UK. Interestingly, the 6th-gen Accord R was initially sold in the UK and some European countries as the Accord Type R, with the CH1 chassis code. Meanwhile, the Japanese domestic market (JDM) version, launched in June 2000, was called the Accord Euro R and used the CL1 chassis code.

Both CH1 and CL1 were powered by Honda’s legendary red-head H22A engine. However, the JDM-spec CL1 delivered 220hp at 7200rpm, compared to the CH1’s 212hp. Torque remained identical at 22.5kgm at 6700rpm.

• CH1: Sold in Europe as the Accord Type R, with a different design from the JDM CL1.
• CL1: A pure JDM model, retaining the “Euro R” name exclusively for Japan.

From CH1/CL1 to CL7: Evolution Continues

Without the CH1/CL1, there would be no CL7. The success of the 6th-gen Euro R in both Europe and Japan paved the way for its successor. In 2002, Honda introduced the 7th-gen Accord Euro R (CL7) as the performance flagship of the lineup—not in terms of luxury, but akin to BMW’s M series or Mercedes-Benz’s AMG series, where Euro R signified peak performance.

Unlike its predecessor, the CL7 switched from the H22A engine to the smaller yet more advanced K20A engine, delivering 215hp and 21kgm of torque. While the raw numbers suggest the H22A had slightly higher output, the K20A boasted a superior power-to-displacement ratio of 108hp per liter compared to the H22A’s 99hp per liter, making it the stronger engine overall.

Interestingly, the CL7’s K20A intake manifold design was later adopted by the FD2 Civic Type R, showcasing its influence. Among all K20A engines, the CL7’s torque output is second only to the FD2’s.

A True JDM Icon

Despite its name, the Euro R was never sold in Europe. It remains a pure JDM model, much like its predecessor. The CL7, with its executive looks and performance-focused engineering, stands out as one of Honda’s most balanced creations.

As we’ve explored the history of the Euro R, stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive into the modifications and features of the lightly-tuned 7th-gen Accord Euro R (CL7) we encountered in Macau. Don’t miss the next update from Hon达誌! 🚘