i do agree w/ u that the type r is an awesome motor...but i don't really think its the answer to all motor swaps. look at most of the nhra guys, they run w/ h22's (for the bigger displacement). the type r motor is jus a b18c1 block w/ a b16a head on it, higher compression pistons an a better intake manifold.
as for ls/vtec not being reliable, no, it isn't as safe as a stock motor BUT the guy w/ it races nearly every other day an has had it for a year now an it still runs strong. its all about the tuning an how you do it.
but i will side w/ u on one thing...for autocross, the type r motor is the best choice by far. but if ur talking straight-line turbo, there are MUCH better choices.