Evoking the spirit of the three-box touring car, the Honda Torneo Euro R also represents the last-frontier of Honda's first-generation VTEC engines
The Honda Torneo Euro R is bona fide Q-car in that it’s actually packing weapons-grade hardware under its rounded and unassuming styling.
Like the Honda Civic ‘EK’, the Torneo Euro R CL1 was one of the last-generation Hondas that featured the best of the old.
Powering the Torneo CL1 Euro R is the last-rendition of legendary h-series ‘2.2-litre VTEC engine with a 162kW of power 221Nm torque.
The H22A engine hits hard and crosses over into VTEC more like a light switch when compared to K20A engine that replaced it the year after.
Compared to a Honda Accord Euro R with a K20; the H22A isn’t as potent, but it puts its power down in a manner that’s simply old-school and more as we remember.
Coupled with a factory-fitted LSD, short gearing, double-wishbone suspension, Recaro seats and adjustable electric steering, the Honda Torneo Euro R is a genuine performance car backed by the right hardware.
The car pictured – 2001 Honda Torneo Euro R (CL1)
Our Honda Torneo Euro R is a factory pearl-white example with a five-speed manual transmission.
Although it’s travelled 189,000km, the car was owned by a single custodian in Japan and is supported by a detailed Honda dealership service history. The factory forest green Recaro seats are in great condition, and the car is also provided with its original stereo and DIN pocket.
The rear suspension is beginning to show its age, but the car rides well and still feels great to drive on a faster back road. The factory 16-inch lightweight wheels are in great condition and the car has never been modified or adjusted from its factory specification.
It’s hard to find a one-owner example nowadays, let alone one that’s remains totally standard and with an impeccable service history.
Quick facts
- 2001 Honda Torneo Euro R (CL1)
- 189,000km
- Short-ratio five-speed manual transmission
- Limited-Slip differential (TorSEn LSD)
- One-owner example with full Honda Japan service history
- Factory equipment: Recaro seats, remote central locking, climate control, adjustable sports electric steering, white instrumentation.
- 2.2-litre ‘H22A’ VTEC motor / front-engine / front-wheel drive
- SOLD!
Sometimes you don't need to shout to get your point across – it's easier to let your driving do the talking.
