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Can’t wait for the new 2022 Acura Integra? Or maybe you can’t swing a ridiculously overpriced classic Acura Integra Type R? Then boy do I have the solution for you. The Acura RSX Type S is basically a poor man’s ‘Teggy. They’re cheap, quick, and most importantly, you can’t walk 20 feet without running into one.

The Acura RSX Type S is a killer sports compact | That Dude in Blue

That’s arguably the best part, seeing as anything Integra will be scarce and scarily priced. However, there’s a lot more to love about the Type S.

You won’t be able to get a 2022 Acura Integra for a while

The front headlight of the 2022 Acura Integra in Championship White
The 2022 Acura Integra will have a very “Acura” design if the headlight is anything to go by | Acura

Obviously, no one is getting their hands on a new 2022 Acura Integra for a while. Heck, with the supply shortage, it could be a 2023 Acura Integra by the time we’re all gawking at them on the street. Right now, there’s little to no information available in regards to the 2022 Acura Integra’s specs or pricing.

It’s a shame, but time heals all forms of impatience. However, should you need that ‘Teggy experience right now, there’s the Acura RSX Type S. Sure, you can go out and buy an old Integra Type R, but I doubt the people with that kind of money are really looking for a discount Integra anyways. You’re here because you are.

Is the Acura RSX Type S reliable?

A red Acura RSX Type S shot from the front 3/4 on a canyon road
A 2006 Acura RSX Type S | Acura

And that probably means an RSX will be your only car. That’s great, because these cars are truly usable. First, they’re dead reliable. After all, an Acura RSX Type S is really just a Honda. It’s got a Honda radio, gearbox, motor, you name it. That may be the only thing the long-dead RSX has in common with the 2022 Acura Integra. There’s also the super practical liftback layout and folding seats to help with the grocery run.

Now, let’s talk about money before we get back to that engine and gearbox. A cursory internet browse shows RSX values stay below $25,000. If miles don’t scare you, there’s plenty to choose from. I did however have to do some digging to find a relatively clean Type S.

Instant gratificaiton brought to you by Acura

The K20 Honda motor in the Acura RSX Type S
The RSX’s K20 engine has become notorious among tuners | Ryan Born via Getty Images

It’s definitely worth the digging. Car and Driver enjoyed the now-legendary K20 motor and killer handling, and even now the Type S’ 200 hp feels like plenty. After all, this car does weigh under 3,000 lbs. It’s hard to say no to the infamous Honda/Acura FWD fast compact special, even with the 2022 Acura Integra well on the way.

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Chase Bierenkoven

Chase Bierenkoven has been obsessed with cars his whole life and now finds joy in sharing what he’s learned from his own daily drivers. Chase earned a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology with a focus on legal studies from the Metropolitan State University of Denver and quickly became an automotive journalist. When he isn’t writing, Chase is either driving his passion project, a 2004 BMW M3 in Carbon Schwartz Metallic, or playing around Colorado’s terrain, mainly mountain biking and skiing.