How much horsepower does a Geo Metro 3 cylinder have?
The Geo Metro’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder powerplant typically produces about 55 to 58 horsepower, varying by year and fuel system.
The Metro, a subcompact from the late 1980s and 1990s, relied on Suzuki-sourced small-displacement engines designed for efficiency as much as speed. While horsepower figures are modest by contemporary standards, they reflect the car’s kei-style approach to lightweight, economical driving. This article breaks down the typical horsepower range, what drives those numbers, and how they translate to real-world performance for prospective buyers or enthusiasts revisiting the model today.
Engine basics and horsepower range
Below are the typical horsepower outputs associated with the Metro’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder powerplant, along with notes on variations by year and fuel system.
- 1.0-liter inline-3 engines (Suzuki-based designs) generally deliver about 55–58 horsepower at the crank, depending on year and emission configuration.
- Fuel system variations (carbureted vs. fuel-injected) can shift the figure toward the lower or higher end of that range, respectively.
- Published horsepower refers to engine output at the crank; actual on-road power is reduced by drivetrain losses and accessories.
In practice, the Metro’s horsepower sits in a narrow band around the mid-50s, with most models clustering around 55–58 hp. This reflects its focus on light weight, simple engineering, and fuel economy rather than outright performance.
What this means for everyday driving
Power figures in the mid-50s translate to modest acceleration and brisk city-driving ability, but they are not aimed at high-speed performance. The Metro’s light curb weight helps offset the relatively low horsepower, making it feel quick off the line in urban conditions while keeping highway merge and long-distance highway driving leisurely by modern standards.
Verifying horsepower in a used Geo Metro
If you’re shopping for a used Metro and want to gauge how the horsepower translates to real-world driveability, consider these checks.
- Test throttle response across the RPM range to ensure there’s no dead spots or misfires that could mask true power output.
- Listen for consistent idle and smooth acceleration, which can indicate a healthy engine and proper fuel delivery.
- Check compression in all cylinders; even a slight imbalance can reduce power noticeably.
- Inspect the exhaust, air intake, and ignition system for leaks or wear that could degrade performance.
These checks help determine whether a particular Geo Metro is delivering power as expected for its displacement, and they can alert you to issues that might affect perceived performance.
Summary
For the Geo Metro’s iconic 3-cylinder setup, expect roughly 55–58 horsepower from the 1.0-liter engine, with minor variations by year and fuel system. The combination of a small engine and lightweight design made the Metro exceptionally economical, delivering adequate everyday performance without aiming for high-speed acceleration. When evaluating a used Metro, verify overall engine health to ensure that horsepower outputs align with expectations and that the car remains a nimble, efficient, city-friendly compact.
