Geo Storm: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Geo Storm

The Geo Storm was a sport compact car sold by the Geo brand, a division of General Motors, from 1990 to 1993. Essentially a rebadged version of the Isuzu Impulse, the Storm was manufactured in Japan by Isuzu and was designed to offer a sporty look and feel at an affordable price. It was available in two body styles: a three-door liftback coupe and a more versatile three-door hatchback, often referred to as the “wagonback”. The Storm was offered in multiple variants, most notably the economical base model and the more powerful GSi performance version. Despite its relatively short production run, the Geo Storm was a notable and popular model for the Geo brand, offering a unique blend of Japanese engineering and American marketing. It existed as a single-generation vehicle, with a significant facelift and various updates throughout its four model years.

Geo Storm Overview

Generations and History of Geo Storm

The Geo Storm was a product of the collaboration between General Motors and Isuzu in the late 1980s and early 1990s. It was part of GM’s Geo brand, which was created to market and sell vehicles produced by Japanese manufacturers. The Storm itself was a rebadged second-generation Isuzu Impulse, albeit with some of the more expensive features of the Impulse removed to keep the price down. The Storm was produced for a single generation from the 1990 to 1993 model years and was discontinued when Isuzu ceased its passenger car production.

First Generation (1990-1993)

The first and only generation of the Geo Storm was launched in 1990. It was built on the GM R platform and was available as a front-wheel-drive sport compact. The initial models featured distinctive pop-up headlights (for the 1990-1991 model years) which contributed to its sporty appearance. The base model was powered by a 1.6-liter SOHC inline-four engine producing 95 horsepower. The more performance-oriented GSi variant came with a 1.6-liter DOHC inline-four engine that produced 130 horsepower. The GSi also featured a sport-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler, and fog lights. In 1991, a three-door hatchback body style, marketed as the “wagonback,” was introduced, offering more cargo space and rear headroom.

Geo Storm Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Geo Storm Variants and Features

The Geo Storm was available in two primary variants: the base model and the GSi. The base model was available in both liftback and hatchback body styles, while the GSi was exclusively a liftback. The interior of the Storm was designed to be driver-focused, with a wraparound dashboard and clear analog gauges. Standard features on the base model were modest and included an AM/FM stereo and manual windows. The GSi trim added several sporty features, including a more powerful engine, a rear spoiler, fog lamps, a rear anti-sway bar, and a transmission with a sportier gear ratio. The interior of the GSi also featured sport bucket seats. For safety, a driver-side airbag was standard on all Storm models. The rear seats in the liftback were very small and offered limited headroom, making them more suitable for occasional use or for children. The hatchback “wagonback” model offered significantly more rear headroom.

Geo Storm Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The Geo Storm was offered with three different inline-four engines during its production. The base models from 1990-1992 used a 1.6L SOHC engine that produced 95 horsepower. For 1993, this engine was revised to produce 90 horsepower with an increase in torque. The 1990-1991 GSi models were equipped with a 1.6L DOHC engine that generated 130 horsepower. For the 1992-1993 model years, the GSi was upgraded to a 1.8L DOHC engine that produced 140 horsepower. Transmission options included a standard 5-speed manual, with a 3-speed automatic available for the base model and a 4-speed automatic available for the GSi. The Storm was praised for its nimble handling and fun-to-drive character, especially the GSi model. Contemporary reviews noted its impressive grip, with Road & Track reporting a skidpad rating of 0.85 g, which was comparable to some dedicated sports cars of the era. The suspension provided a firm ride that could be harsh on rough roads but contributed to its agile handling in corners.

Geo Storm Pricing and Mileage

The Geo Storm was positioned as an affordable sport compact car. Original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) ranged from approximately $11,330 for a base model to around $14,560 for a well-equipped GSi in its later years. In terms of fuel economy, the base model with a manual transmission was quite efficient for its time, with EPA estimates around 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway for the 1991 model. The more powerful GSi was rated at approximately 25 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway with a manual transmission. Real-world mileage reported by owners is generally in the range of 30-35 MPG. Due to its age, the resale value of the Geo Storm is quite low, making it a very inexpensive used car. Maintenance costs are generally considered to be low, though the availability of certain parts can be a challenge.

Geo Storm Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The Geo Storm featured a distinctive and sporty design for its time, with a low-slung body, a sleek profile, and, on early models, pop-up headlights. The 1992 facelift brought a more modern front end with exposed headlights. The Storm was available in a variety of vibrant colors throughout its production run. For the 1990 model year, colors included White, Silver Metallic, Bright Yellow, Aqua Metallic, Black, Bright Red, and Cobalt Blue Pearl Metallic. The 1991 models had color options such as Silver Metallic, Flash Yellow, White, Black, Turquoise Metallic, Bright Red, and Cobalt Blue Mica. The 1992 color palette included Silver Metallic, French Blue Metallic, Flash Yellow, White, Black, Turquoise Metallic, Medium Dark Blue Metallic, and Bright Red. For its final year in 1993, the Storm was available in colors like Polynesian Green Metallic, French Blue Metallic, Flash Yellow, Magenta Metallic, White, Black, and Bright Red. The interior was typically finished in gray or blue cloth. The dimensions of the Geo Storm were compact, with a wheelbase of 96.5 inches and an overall length of around 164 inches. It had a width of 66.7 inches and a height of approximately 51.1 inches. Wheel sizes were typically 14 inches for the base model and 15 inches for the GSi.

Geo Storm Safety Features

• Airbags: A driver-side airbag was a standard safety feature on all Geo Storm models throughout its production. Passenger-side airbags were not available.
• ABS / EBD: Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were not offered on the Geo Storm.
• Electronic Stability Control: Electronic Stability Control was not available on the Geo Storm.
• Crash Test Ratings: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 1992 Geo Storm a 4 out of 5-star rating for driver’s side protection in a frontal crash and a 3 out of 5-star rating for the front passenger.
• Other advanced safety systems: The Geo Storm did not feature any other advanced safety systems.

Geo Storm Infotainment and Connectivity

The infotainment options in the Geo Storm were basic, in line with other economy cars of the early 1990s. The standard system was a Geo-branded AM/FM stereo, likely produced by Delco. An optional upgrade to an electronically tuned AM/FM stereo with a cassette tape player and a digital clock was available. In 1993, the center console was redesigned to accommodate a double-DIN sized radio, allowing for more modern aftermarket stereo installations. The Storm featured front speakers and, in later models, revised rear speaker locations. There were no advanced connectivity features such as Bluetooth, USB ports, or navigation systems available from the factory.

Geo Storm Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Geo Storm are generally positive, with many praising its fun-to-drive nature, reliability, and excellent fuel economy. Common praises include its nimble handling, often described as “go-kart-like,” and its sporty appearance. Many owners have reported their Storms to be mechanically sound with minimal issues outside of regular maintenance, even at high mileage. However, there are some common complaints. The back seats of the liftback model are frequently cited as being extremely cramped and impractical for adult passengers. Some owners find the base engine’s acceleration to be underwhelming. A common issue with the interior is the dashboard, which is prone to cracking over time. The availability of specific replacement parts can also be a challenge due to the car’s age and the discontinuation of the Geo brand.

Geo Storm Comparison with Similar Cars

During its time, the Geo Storm competed with other sport compacts like the Honda Civic Si, Ford Probe, Toyota Paseo, Eagle Talon, and Mitsubishi Eclipse. Compared to its rivals, the Storm, particularly in GSi trim, was often praised for its superior handling and grip. It was also generally more affordable than many of its Japanese competitors. However, some rivals offered more powerful engine options, including turbocharged and all-wheel-drive variants, which the Storm lacked. The Eagle Talon and Mitsubishi Eclipse, for example, were available with turbocharged engines and all-wheel drive, offering significantly more performance. The Honda Civic Si was known for its refined engine and high-quality interior. The Ford Probe offered a V6 engine option in its second generation, which provided more power than the Storm’s four-cylinder engines. In terms of value for money, the Geo Storm presented a compelling package of sporty styling, agile handling, and good fuel economy at a competitive price.

Geo Storm Awards and Recognition

• Sport Compact Car Magazine: Listed the Geo Storm as number three in its “Top Ten of 1992”.

Interesting Facts about Geo Storm

• The Geo Storm was a “captive import,” a foreign-built car sold under a domestic brand name.
• Despite being a rebadged Isuzu Impulse, the Geo Storm outsold its Isuzu counterpart significantly in the United States.
• The Storm’s suspension was not tuned by Lotus, unlike its Isuzu Impulse sibling, which was a key differentiator between the two models.
• The unique hatchback version was often marketed as a “wagonback” due to its squared-off rear design.

Geo Storm Legacy and Influence

The Geo Storm played a significant role in the Geo brand’s lineup during its short existence. It offered a stylish and fun-to-drive option in the economy car segment, which helped to attract younger buyers to the brand. The Storm’s success demonstrated the viability of the “captive import” strategy for General Motors at the time. Its discontinuation in 1993 was a result of Isuzu’s decision to cease passenger car production and focus on trucks and SUVs, rather than a lack of popularity of the Storm itself. Today, the Geo Storm has a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciate its quirky 90s styling, rarity, and engaging driving dynamics. It remains an interesting example of the collaboration between American and Japanese automakers in the late 20th century.

Geo Storm Global Availability

The Geo Storm was primarily sold in the United States. It was also available in Canada for the 1992 and 1993 model years. The vehicle was manufactured by Isuzu in Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan, and imported to North America. As a result, all Geo Storms were left-hand drive models. The platform was also sold in other markets under different names; in Japan, it was known as the Isuzu PA Nero and was sold through Yanase dealerships. An Australian version was sold as the Holden Piazza.

Geo Storm Maintenance and Ownership Costs

The ownership costs for a Geo Storm today are relatively low, primarily due to its good fuel economy and the low initial purchase price for used examples. Annual maintenance costs are estimated to be reasonable, though they can vary depending on the condition of the vehicle. Common maintenance items include regular oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service. One of the main challenges for current owners is the availability of specific spare parts. While many mechanical components are shared with other Isuzu models, body panels and some interior pieces can be difficult to find. The resale value of the Geo Storm is quite low, which is typical for a car of its age and market position. The original warranty was a 3-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper plan.

Final Words about Geo Storm

The Geo Storm remains a memorable and appealing vehicle from the early 1990s. It successfully blended sporty styling, agile handling, and commendable fuel efficiency into an affordable package. While it may not have offered the raw power of some of its turbocharged competitors, the Storm, especially in GSi form, provided a genuinely fun and engaging driving experience. For buyers looking for a unique and nostalgic compact car that stands out from the crowd, the Geo Storm offers a lot of character for a very modest price. Its legacy as a successful collaboration between GM and Isuzu, and as a popular model in the short-lived Geo brand, secures its place in automotive history. While finding one in good condition today may require some searching, for the right owner, the Geo Storm is a rewarding and enjoyable classic from the sport compact era.