Once in a while I’ll have an uncomfortable moment of clarity, such as when I realize I’m now considered a “man of a certain age.” You know: not young, but not exactly old. Still filled with hopes and dreams for the future. But now also hanging on a little too tightly to the past.
So what’s this got to do with cars? Well, I’m also realizing that I’m becoming the modern version of the Boomer who cherishes, and still owns, the Camaro they had in high school. Only I drive a slammed Japanese import. One purchased long before Fast met Furious. One whose rough-around-the-edges charm grows tiresome when used as a commuter. And one that may need to be retired in favor of something a little more sensible—or at least something with ABS and airbags.
I know I’m not the only one with this particular dilemma. So what’s an aging tuner to do? Embrace modernity, that’s what. We’re living in an era where a factory-built ride will absolutely smoke anything we dreamed about in the ‘90s—and include ABS, airbags and a factory warranty. Fun and sensible, all in one package? What’s not to like?
So if, like me, you’re thinking it’s time to ditch that ‘90s Honda for something a little more practical, don’t give up on life and get a crossover. Instead, keep those JDM tuner dreams alive and consider one of these.
Acura Integra Type S
Starting MSRP: $52,900
Power: 320 hp / 310 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual
My old, slammed import? It’s an Acura Integra. So it makes sense to replace it with a new one, and the best of the new ones is the Integra Type S. It is, essentially, a reskinned FL5 Civic Type R. While it is admittedly less hardcore than its Civic sibling, it may be just what I need at this stage of my life. The suspension tuning is more compliant, making it friendlier to the daily drive. Its leather-trimmed seats aren’t as aggressive but do an admirable job holding one in place—and are way easier to get in and out of. Bonus: its ELS audio system is genuinely incredible. Emotionally, the Civic does it for me a hair bit more, but logically, the Integra would be the one I’d want to live with.
Honda Civic Type R
Starting MSRP: $45,895
Power: 315 hp / 310 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed manual
The current FL5 Civic Type R captures the essence of the original EK9 Civic Type R that blew our minds back in the ‘90s. Like the original, this one is straight outta Japan, boasts a superb powertrain, and isn’t weighed down by an overabundance of visual flare—though its sculpted lines were designed by a Super GT race team.
Inside, red racing seats pay homage to the Recaros of the original, as does the metallic shift knob which just so happens to be attached to one of the best six-speed manual transmissions in existence. Plus, with its generously sized rear seat and hatchback-accessed cargo area, it remains as user friendly as your normal, everyday Civic.
Mazda3 Turbo Sedan
Starting MSRP: $32,300
Power: 250 hp / 320 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
The Mazda3 Turbo Sedan may be the most “normal” car here, but don’t think that a literal lack of buzz makes this car boring. Yes, its premium cabin will keep you feeling chill when stuck in traffic. But don’t forget that this sedan carries the same DNA as the MX-5 Miata—a fact that’s evident the moment you turn the steering wheel. This is a car that’s happiest when being flung through a bend, showing that “zoom-zoom” doesn’t need to be said to be felt. And let’s not forget that Mazda is one of the few (if not only) car companies that prioritizes physical interior controls. You can’t go wrong with any Mazda3, but due to rear sightlines alone, the sedan is easier to live with than its (admittedly prettier) hatch sibling.
Subaru WRX
Starting MSRP: $32,735
Power: 271 hp / 258 lb-ft torque
Transmissions: 6-speed manual / CVT
While not a proper WRX STI, the current VB-chassis Subaru WRX delivers more than enough fun for spirited street driving. Its turbocharged flat four spits out 271 horsepower, which isn’t too far off of the magic “300” number of STIs past, and its comparative lack of differentials and race-spec torque-vectoring technology doesn’t mean much unless you’re on a track. Its interior is well-appointed regardless of spec, though it’s hard to argue against springing for a version with Recaro front seas.
The six-speed manual is definitively the way to go for driver engagement, even if it isn’t as precise as what you’d find in a Honda. CVTs (rightfully) get a lot of hate, but I don’t hate the Subaru Performance Transmission CVT found in select WRX models, nor do I hate the faux shift-shock programmed in. For those of us who spend hours slogging through stop-and-go traffic, having a spirited daily that’s also happy to plod along in “auto” mode has a lot of appeal.
Toyota GR Corolla
Starting MSRP: $38,860
Power: 300 hp / 295 lb-ft torque
Transmissions: 6-speed manual / 8-speed direct shift automatic
Of all the cars on this list, Toyota’s GR Corolla best matches the iconic EK9 Civic Type R in terms of “vibe.” My own opinion of the GR Corolla is a bit skewed, though, as I’ve only sampled the Morizo Edition—the hardcore variant that tossed everything from speakers to window regulators to seats in the name of weight savings. That version is much too much (for me) to use as a daily, but even the comparatively more luxurious (and cheaper!) variants deliver more than enough rally-bred performance for on-demand, grin-inducing shenanigans. The fact that it comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission satisfies my inner enthusiast. And its newly available 8-speed direct shift automatic transmission may make this hatch work for the commute as well.
So which one to get?
Unlike most car-comparison shootouts, there’s no empirical, measured metric to declare one of these cars as best—it really is all about vibes. Are you still mad at your mom for not letting you get that VTEC tattoo? Get the Civic R or Integra S. Think the bugeye Scooby is peak car design? You’ll enjoy the WRX. Regret selling your old EG hatch? Get the GR Corolla. Need comfort and handling in a more wallet-friendly package? You’ll find it in the Mazda.
No matter which one you choose, though, all deliver the youthful thrills you might still be chasing after, all while telling the world at large that you’re (mostly) a sensible grownup. And that is something a car enthusiast of any age can get behind.
Justin Kaehler has been covering all things automotive for 20 years, and has been an active part of the car scene for much longer than that. Though he’s grown to love all cars, he’s still particularly fond of the ’80s and ’90s Japanese metal he grew up on. And for those of you who grew up playing The Fast and Furious: Tokyo Drift game for the PS2 and PSP, yes, he’s also that JDM Justin.