2026 Innovations: Cirrus G7+ launched Jan 2026 (Safe Return Autoland, Perspective Touch+, enhanced connectivity), Diamond DA50 RG gained EASA certification 2024, Piper M350 added Garmin Emergency Descent Mode, All manufacturers SAF-compatible
Price Ranges 2026: Entry-level: $450K-$650K (Cessna 172/182, Diamond DA40), Mid-range: $800K-$1.0M (SR22T, DA50, Bonanza), Premium: $1.2M-$1.35M (Piper M350 pressurized)
Operating Costs: Cessna 172: $180/hour, Cessna 182: $250/hour, Diamond DA40: $200/hour, SR22: $641/hour, Bonanza G36: $550/hour, Piper M350: $700/hour
Key Differentiators: Cirrus unique CAPS parachute system (210+ lives saved), Piper M350 only pressurized single in class, Diamond composite construction (corrosion-proof), Bonanza retractable gear (faster cruise), Cessna high-wing visibility
Market Trends 2026: Glass cockpit standard across all new aircraft, Autopilot with safety features (ESP, autoland) becoming baseline, USB-C power ubiquitous, Satellite connectivity growing (Cirrus Global Connect, Garmin Connext), Pre-owned market softening (inventory +12% vs 2024, prices -8-15%)
Choosing the right aircraft is crucial for any pilot. The Cirrus SR22, Cessna 182, Diamond DA40, Bonanza G36, and Piper M350 are some of the top contenders in the general aviation market. Each has unique features, but which one is the best? Let’s dive into the details and compare these models.
Cirrus SR22 vs Cessna 182
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 stands out with its speed and range. It cruises at 183 knots and has a range of 1,207 nautical miles. On the other hand, the Cessna 182 cruises at 145 knots and has a range of 915 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Cessna 182 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 145 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 915 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Cirrus SR22 boasts a modern, sleek interior that seats up to five people comfortably. The Cessna 182, while also seating four, doesn’t offer the same level of luxury. The Cirrus provides a quieter and smoother ride, making it ideal for longer flights. The Cirrus SR22’s parachute system is a standout safety feature.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The Cirrus SR22 commands a significant premium – new 2026 models cost $1,250,000-$1,305,000 compared to Cessna 182’s $580,000-$650,000. However, the price difference reflects substantial capability advantages: 38-knot cruise speed advantage, CAPS parachute safety system, composite construction, and Perspective Touch+ avionics vs Garmin G1000 NXi.
Operating costs favor the Cessna 182 at approximately $250/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour. The 182 burns 15 gallons per hour vs SR22T’s 16 gallons, but the real cost difference stems from the SR22’s turbocharged engine maintenance, advanced avionics support, composite structure care, and CAPS parachute system repack (required every 10 years at $18,000-$22,000).
Best Choice: Choose Cirrus SR22 for maximum speed, safety (CAPS parachute), and modern technology if budget allows $641/hour operating costs. Choose Cessna 182 for proven utility, lower acquisition cost ($580K-$650K), and economical operations ($250/hour) when outright speed is not priority.
Cirrus SR22 vs Cessna 172
Image source: https://simpleflying.com/cessna-172-flight-training-favorite-list/
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 cruises at 183 knots with a range of 1,207 nautical miles, whereas the Cessna 172 has a cruise speed of 122 knots and a range of 640 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Cessna 172 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 122 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 640 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Cirrus SR22 offers more advanced avionics and a luxurious cabin compared to the more basic interior of the Cessna 172. The Cirrus’s parachute system also provides an additional layer of safety.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The price gap between these aircraft is substantial. New 2026 Cirrus SR22 costs $1,250,000-$1,305,000 compared to Cessna 172’s $450,000-$500,000 – the SR22 costs nearly 3× more. This massive difference reflects fundamentally different missions: the Cessna 172 is designed as a primary trainer and entry-level aircraft, while the SR22 targets experienced pilots seeking high-performance cross-country capability.
Operating costs diverge even more dramatically. The Cessna 172 operates at approximately $180/hour – the most economical option in single-engine aviation. The SR22 costs $641/hour, over 3.5× higher. For a pilot flying 100 hours annually, this translates to $18,000/year (Cessna 172) vs $64,100/year (SR22) – a $46,100 annual difference. The 172 burns 8-10 gallons per hour vs SR22T’s 16 gallons, and maintenance on the proven Lycoming O-360 engine costs significantly less than the turbocharged Continental TSIO-550-K.
Speed Difference Reality: The SR22’s 183-knot cruise vs Cessna 172’s 122-knot cruise means a 500 nm trip takes 2.7 hours in the SR22 vs 4.1 hours in the 172 – saving 1.4 hours. For frequent long-distance travelers, this time savings justifies the cost premium. For local flights, pattern work, or $100 hamburger runs, the 172’s economy makes more sense.
Best Choice: Choose Cessna 172 for flight training, building hours, local flying, and budget-conscious operations ($180/hour). The 172 is the perfect first aircraft and most popular trainer worldwide for good reason. Choose Cirrus SR22 after gaining 100-200 hours experience when you need serious cross-country speed (183 knots), CAPS safety system, and modern avionics – accepting the $641/hour operating cost as the price of performance and technology.
Cirrus SR22 vs. Diamond DA40
Image source: https://www.diamondaircraft.com/en/private-owners/aircraft/da40/overview/
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 cruises at 183 knots with a range of 1,207 nautical miles. The Diamond DA40 cruises at 145 knots and has a range of 940 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Diamond DA40 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 145 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 940 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Diamond DA40 is known for its spacious and modern interior with large windows. However, the Cirrus SR22 offers a quieter ride and a more luxurious cabin. Both aircraft have excellent safety records, but the Cirrus’s parachute system is a unique advantage.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The Cirrus SR22 and Diamond DA40 occupy different price segments despite similar roles. New 2026 SR22 costs $1,250,000-$1,305,000 vs Diamond DA40’s $500,000-$550,000 – the SR22 costs 2.3-2.6× more. Both target pilots seeking modern glass cockpit aircraft with good cross-country performance, but the price difference reflects the SR22’s turbocharged power, composite construction complexity, and CAPS parachute system.
Operating economics favor the Diamond DA40 significantly. The DA40 operates at approximately $200/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour – saving $441/hour or over $44,000 annually at 100 hours. The DA40 achieves this through naturally aspirated diesel engine option (Austro Engine AE300, burning Jet-A at lower cost than avgas), lighter composite construction, and simpler systems. Both aircraft cruise at 145 knots (DA40) vs 183 knots (SR22), but the SR22’s 38-knot speed advantage comes at substantial cost premium.
Fuel Efficiency Advantage: Diamond DA40 with diesel engine burns approximately 6 gallons per hour compared to SR22T’s 16 gallons – achieving 2.7× better fuel economy. For European operators where Jet-A costs less than avgas, this compounds the DA40’s economic advantage. The DA40’s composite construction also means corrosion-proof airframe requiring less long-term maintenance than traditional aluminum structures.
Best Choice: Choose Diamond DA40 for fuel efficiency ($200/hour), lower acquisition cost ($500K-$550K), corrosion-proof composite construction, and excellent training platform if speed is not critical priority. The DA40 offers modern glass cockpit experience at half the SR22’s operating cost. Choose Cirrus SR22 for 38-knot cruise speed advantage (183 vs 145 knots), CAPS parachute safety system, greater range (1,207 nm vs 940 nm), and turbocharged high-altitude capability when budget allows premium pricing.
Cirrus SR22 vs. Diamond DA50
Image source: https://www.flyingmag.com/we-fly-diamond-da50-rg-the-high-performance-retract-that-shines/
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 cruises at 183 knots with a range of 1,207 nautical miles. The Diamond DA50 is a newer model with a cruise speed of 181 knots and a range of 750 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Diamond DA50 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 181 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 750 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Diamond DA50 offers a very spacious and luxurious interior, similar to the Cirrus SR22. However, the Cirrus’s parachute system gives it a notable edge in terms of safety.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The Cirrus SR22 and Diamond DA50 compete directly in the high-performance single-engine market with similar pricing. New 2026 SR22 costs $1,250,000-$1,305,000 vs Diamond DA50’s $800,000-$900,000 – the SR22 commands a $350,000-$405,000 premium. Both seat 5 passengers and target serious cross-country missions, but differ significantly in design philosophy: SR22 emphasizes proven platform with CAPS safety vs DA50’s modern composite design with retractable gear.
Operating costs favor the Diamond DA50 at approximately $400/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour – saving $241/hour or $24,100 annually at 100 hours. The DA50 achieves lower costs through composite construction efficiency, optional diesel engine (Austro Engine AE330 burning Jet-A), and newer design optimized for economy. However, the SR22 offers superior range: 1,207 nautical miles vs DA50’s 750 nm – a 457 nm advantage enabling nonstop missions the DA50 cannot complete.
Range vs Economy Trade-off: The SR22’s 457 nm range advantage is substantial for long-distance travelers. A 1,000 nm trip requires one fuel stop in the DA50 (adding 30-45 minutes) vs nonstop in the SR22. For missions under 600 nm, the DA50’s $241/hour cost savings and retractable gear efficiency make it attractive. For missions exceeding 700 nm regularly, the SR22’s range justifies its premium.
Best Choice: Choose Diamond DA50 for operating economy ($400/hour vs $641/hour), modern composite retractable design (introduced 2017), lower acquisition cost ($800K-$900K), and corrosion-proof construction if typical missions are under 700 nm. Choose Cirrus SR22 for superior range (1,207 nm vs 750 nm), proven platform (13,000+ delivered since 2001), established service network, CAPS parachute safety system, and nonstop long-distance capability justifying $1.25M-$1.3M investment.
Cirrus SR22 vs. Bonanza G36
Image source: https://x.com/Beechcraft/status/1532450737887887374
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 cruises at 183 knots with a range of 1,207 nautical miles. The Bonanza G36 cruises at 176 knots with a range of 920 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Bonanza G36 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 176 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 920 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Bonanza G36 provides a luxurious cabin with club seating for up to six passengers. While the Cirrus SR22 also offers comfort, the Bonanza has a slight advantage in seating capacity. However, the Cirrus’s parachute system is a significant safety feature.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The Cirrus SR22 and Beechcraft Bonanza G36 represent different philosophies in high-performance singles. New 2026 SR22 costs $1,250,000-$1,305,000 vs Bonanza G36’s $880,000-$950,000 – the SR22 costs $300,000-$425,000 more. The Bonanza counters with 6-seat capacity vs SR22’s 5 seats and 70+ years of continuous production proving design longevity. The SR22 emphasizes modern composite construction and revolutionary CAPS parachute safety.
Operating costs favor the Bonanza G36 at approximately $550/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour – saving $91/hour or $9,100 annually at 100 hours. Both are premium aircraft with substantial operating costs, but the Bonanza’s aluminum construction, conventional retractable gear, and proven IO-550 engine offer slightly lower maintenance expenses than SR22’s composite structure and turbocharged powerplant. The SR22 cruises 7 knots faster (183 vs 176 knots) – negligible for most missions.
Six vs Five Seats: Bonanza’s 6-seat capacity is genuine advantage for families or business teams. The additional seat increases payload flexibility and passenger-carrying capability the SR22 cannot match. However, the SR22’s CAPS parachute system has saved 210+ lives – a safety feature no Bonanza variant offers. For families prioritizing maximum occupant protection, CAPS is compelling despite one fewer seat.
Best Choice: Choose Beechcraft Bonanza G36 for 6-seat capacity (vs SR22’s 5), lower acquisition cost ($880K-$950K vs $1.25M-$1.3M), 70+ year proven design, classic retractable gear performance, and slightly lower operating costs ($550/hour vs $641/hour). The Bonanza is aviation’s longest-production aircraft for excellent reasons. Choose Cirrus SR22 for CAPS parachute safety system (210+ lives saved), modern composite construction, Perspective Touch+ avionics, established position as best-selling high-performance single (13,000+ delivered), and 7-knot cruise advantage if fifth seat suffices for your mission.
Cirrus SR22 vs. Piper M350
Performance Comparison
The Cirrus SR22 cruises at 183 knots with a range of 1,207 nautical miles. The Piper M350 cruises at 213 knots and has a range of 1,343 nautical miles.
| Feature | Cirrus SR22 | Piper M350 |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 213 knots |
| Range | 1,207 nautical miles | 1,343 nautical miles |
Comfort and Safety
The Piper M350 offers a high-end interior with a pressurized cabin, making it ideal for high-altitude flights. While the Cirrus SR22 is luxurious, the Piper M350’s pressurization and speed make it a superior option for long-distance travel.
The Cirrus SR22 stands out for its performance, comfort, and safety features, especially its unique parachute system. However, depending on specific needs, other models like the Piper M350, Bonanza G36, or Diamond DA40 might be more suitable.
Acquisition and Operating Costs (2026)
The Piper M350 competes above the Cirrus SR22 in capability and price. New 2026 Piper M350 costs $1,200,000-$1,350,000 vs SR22’s $1,250,000-$1,305,000 – roughly equivalent acquisition costs. However, these aircraft serve fundamentally different missions: the M350 is pressurized and certified to 25,000 feet for high-altitude operations, while the SR22T reaches 25,000 feet unpressurized (requiring oxygen masks). The M350’s cabin pressurization is transformative for passenger comfort on long flights.
Operating costs diverge significantly. The Piper M350 operates at approximately $700/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour – the M350 costs $59/hour more or $5,900 annually at 100 hours. The M350’s pressurization system adds complexity: environmental control system maintenance, pressurization checks, door seal replacements. The M350 burns similar fuel (17 GPH vs SR22T’s 16 GPH) but delivers 30-knot cruise speed advantage: 213 knots vs 183 knots. This 30-knot advantage saves approximately 30 minutes on a 500 nm trip.
Pressurization Value Proposition: The M350’s pressurized cabin maintains 8,000-foot cabin altitude while flying at 25,000 feet. Passengers experience airline-like comfort without oxygen masks, reducing fatigue on 4-6 hour flights dramatically. For business travelers covering 800+ nm routes regularly, this comfort justifies the complexity and cost. The SR22T requires all occupants to use oxygen masks above 12,500 feet, acceptable for 2-3 hour flights but fatiguing on longer missions.
Best Choice: Choose Piper M350 for pressurized cabin comfort (8,000-foot cabin at 25,000 feet flight), fastest cruise speed in class (213 knots), 6-seat capacity, and weather-avoidance capability flying above most weather systems – accepting $700/hour operating costs and pressurization system complexity. Ideal for business travelers, longer missions (4-6+ hours), and those prioritizing passenger comfort on high-altitude flights. Choose Cirrus SR22 for CAPS parachute safety system, simpler unpressurized systems ($641/hour vs $700/hour), proven best-selling platform, lower maintenance complexity, and excellent performance for missions under 4 hours where oxygen mask use is acceptable trade-off for $59/hour savings and reduced system complexity.
Comprehensive Comparison Table
| Specification | Cirrus SR22 | Cessna 182 | Cessna 172 | Diamond DA40 | Diamond DA50 | Bonanza G36 | Piper M350 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cruise Speed | 183 knots | 145 knots | 122 knots | 145 knots | 181 knots | 176 knots | 213 knots |
| Range (nm) | 1,207 | 915 | 640 | 940 | 750 | 920 | 1,343 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 |
| Engine Power | 310 HP (SR22T) | 230 HP | 180 HP | 180 HP | 300 HP | 300 HP | 350 HP |
| Avionics (2026) | Perspective Touch+ (G7+) | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G1000 NXi | Garmin G1000 NXi |
| Unique Safety Feature | CAPS Parachute System | High-wing visibility | Proven reliability | Crashworthy design | Composite construction | Advanced avionics | Pressurized cabin |
| New Price 2026 | $1,250,000-$1,305,000 | $580,000-$650,000 | $450,000-$500,000 | $500,000-$550,000 | $800,000-$900,000 | $880,000-$950,000 | $1,200,000-$1,350,000 |
| Operating Cost/Hour | $641 | $250 | $180 | $200 | $400 | $550 | $700 |
| Landing Gear | Fixed tricycle | Fixed tricycle | Fixed tricycle | Fixed tricycle | Retractable | Retractable | Retractable |
| Service Ceiling | 25,000 ft (SR22T) | 18,100 ft | 14,000 ft | 16,400 ft | 20,000 ft | 18,500 ft | 25,000 ft |
| Best For | Speed, safety, modern tech | Utility, training, value | Training, entry-level | Efficiency, low operating cost | Modern performance | Classic performance, 6-seat | High-altitude, pressurized |
Color coding: Green = Best value/performance in category | Red = Highest cost
Each aircraft has its strengths. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs, whether it’s performance, comfort, safety, or cost. Fly safe and enjoy the journey!
Maintaining a Cirrus SR22 involves regular checks and servicing to ensure optimal performance and safety. Key tasks include engine overhauls every 2,000 hours, annual inspections, and periodic updates to avionics and safety systems. Proper maintenance of the Cirrus SR22 also includes monitoring the aircraft’s composite structure, managing the parachute system, and ensuring all components are in top condition to prevent any in-flight issues. For a comprehensive guide on maintaining your Cirrus SR22, check out our detailed Cirrus Maintenance Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Which aircraft is fastest – Cirrus SR22 or competitors?
The Piper M350 is fastest at 213 knots cruise speed, followed by Cirrus SR22 at 183 knots and Diamond DA50 at 181 knots. The SR22 offers the best combination of speed and non-pressurized simplicity, while the M350’s higher speed comes with pressurization complexity and operating costs of $700/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour. Cessna 172 is slowest at 122 knots, designed primarily for training rather than cross-country speed.
How much does it cost to buy a Cirrus SR22 in 2026?
New 2026 Cirrus SR22T G7+ models range from $1,249,900 (GTS without FIKI) to $1,304,900 (fully loaded GTS with all packages). Pre-owned SR22 prices vary significantly: 2022-2024 G6 GTS ($800,000-$1,200,000), 2018-2021 G5/G6 ($600,000-$900,000), 2014-2017 G5 ($400,000-$650,000), 2010-2013 models ($250,000-$450,000). Operating costs average $641/hour with annual budget of approximately $128,180 for 200 hours yearly.
What makes the Cirrus SR22 parachute system unique?
The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) is the only whole-aircraft parachute system certified for production aircraft in the SR22’s category. CAPS has saved 210+ lives since introduction through 280+ deployments. The system deploys a 55-foot diameter parachute that lowers the entire aircraft and occupants safely to the ground in emergencies where continued flight is impossible. No competitor offers equivalent whole-aircraft parachute protection – Cessna, Diamond, Bonanza, and Piper rely on traditional safety systems without ballistic recovery capability.
Which aircraft has lowest operating costs – Cirrus SR22, Cessna, or Diamond?
Cessna 172 has lowest operating costs at approximately $180/hour, followed by Diamond DA40 at $200/hour and Cessna 182 at $250/hour. Cirrus SR22 operates at $641/hour (higher due to turbocharged engine, advanced avionics, composite construction maintenance, and CAPS parachute system). For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing economy over speed, Diamond DA40 offers best compromise – only $200/hour operating cost while providing modern glass cockpit, composite construction, and 145-knot cruise matching Cessna 182 but with better fuel efficiency.
Is Cirrus SR22 suitable for beginner pilots?
Cirrus SR22 is not recommended for brand-new student pilots due to high performance (183 knots cruise, 310 HP turbocharged engine), complex systems (Perspective Touch+ avionics), and insurance requirements typically demanding 100+ hours total time plus transition training. Cessna 172 is ideal for students – docile handling, 122-knot cruise, proven training platform used worldwide. After gaining 100-200 hours experience in aircraft like Cessna 172/182, pilots can transition to SR22 through Cirrus-approved training programs. Insurance typically requires: Private Pilot License, 100+ total hours, 10+ hours dual instruction in type, annual recurrent training.
Which aircraft is best for family travel – SR22, Bonanza, or Piper M350?
Depends on family size and mission. Bonanza G36 and Piper M350 seat 6 people (best for larger families), while SR22 seats 5. For speed + pressurization (high-altitude weather avoidance), Piper M350 excels with 213-knot cruise and 25,000-foot ceiling but costs $1.2M-$1.35M new plus $700/hour operating. Bonanza G36 offers 6 seats at lower cost ($880K-$950K new, $550/hour operating) but unpressurized. SR22 provides best safety (CAPS parachute), modern avionics, 5 seats, competitive speed (183 knots), but higher operating cost ($641/hour) than Bonanza. For families of 4-5 prioritizing safety and modern technology, SR22. For families of 6, Bonanza G36 offers best value.
How does Cirrus SR22 compare to Diamond DA50 for cross-country flying?
Cirrus SR22 offers better range (1,207 nm vs DA50’s 750 nm) and slightly higher cruise speed (183 knots vs 181 knots), making it superior for long cross-country missions. SR22 provides CAPS parachute safety system and more established service network (13,000+ delivered vs DA50’s smaller fleet). Diamond DA50 advantages include retractable gear (cleaner design), composite construction (corrosion-proof), and potentially lower operating costs ($400/hour vs SR22’s $641/hour). DA50 seats 5 like SR22 but offers modern design introduced 2017 vs SR22’s 2001 origins. For maximum range and safety features, choose SR22. For operating economy and modern composite design, choose DA50.
What 2026 upgrades does the new Cirrus SR22 G7+ have?
The 2026 Cirrus SR22 G7+ (launched January 2026) features Perspective Touch+ avionics with enhanced visual approach capabilities, Safe Return Emergency Autoland (fully automated emergency landing system), expanded Cirrus Global Connect with 5-minute automatic weather updates via Iridium satellite, high-power USB-C ports (60W front cabin, 100W rear cabin) for modern device charging including Starlink, new premium exterior paint colors, and optional 4-blade composite propeller. Connectivity improvements include integrated global weather showing storm cell movement, turbulence, icing, and surface visibility. Safety advances include improved pilot situational awareness displays and automated systems reducing workload during critical flight phases.
Should I buy new or pre-owned Cirrus SR22 in 2026?
Pre-owned SR22 offers significantly better value for most buyers. New 2026 SR22T GTS costs $1,250,000-$1,305,000, while excellent pre-owned options exist: 2022-2024 G6 GTS ($800,000-$1,200,000) with similar avionics and 3-5 year factory warranty remaining, 2018-2021 models ($600,000-$900,000) with proven G5/G6 Perspective+ systems. Buy new if: you want latest G7+ features (Safe Return Autoland, enhanced connectivity), full 5-year warranty coverage, custom configuration options. Buy pre-owned if: saving $300K-$500K is priority, proven G5/G6 platforms meet needs, willing to accept 1,000-2,000 hours on airframe. Current market conditions favor pre-owned – inventory up 12%, prices down 8-15% vs 2024, creating buyer opportunities.
Can Cessna 182 compete with Cirrus SR22 for performance?
No, Cessna 182 cannot match SR22 performance. SR22 cruises 38 knots faster (183 vs 145 knots) – translating to 1+ hour saved on 500 nm trips. SR22 offers 292 nm greater range (1,207 nm vs 915 nm), turbocharged engine enabling 25,000-foot flight vs 182’s 18,100-foot ceiling, and modern composite construction vs 182’s aluminum design. Cessna 182 advantages are lower acquisition cost ($580K-$650K vs SR22’s $1.25M-$1.3M), lower operating cost ($250/hour vs $641/hour), and high-wing design providing better visibility for ground observation, backcountry operations. For pure cross-country speed and modern technology, SR22 superior. For training, utility missions, and operating economy, Cessna 182 remains excellent choice.
