Cessna 182T Skylane vs Cirrus SR22
Head-to-head — specs, at a glance.
Cessna 182T Skylane
The 2001-present Cessna 182T is the **current production 182** and the first Skylane with a glass cockpit (Garmin G1000) from the factory. The 182T inherited the 182S's airframe, Lycoming IO-540 engine, 3,100 lb gross, and 88+ gallon fuel system, then upgraded the panel to G1000 (and later G1000 NXi starting around 2014), added GFC 700 autopilot integration, and refined production quality. Approximately 1,200+ examples have been delivered through 2026, and production continues at modest volumes (40-80 units per year).
- +Factory-integrated Garmin G1000/G1000 NXi glass cockpit with modern avionics
- +GFC 700 autopilot (post-2001) with simplified integration compared to retrofit alternatives
- +Still in active production with strong factory support and parts availability
- !G1000 database currency and software updates require active maintenance and subscription costs
- !GFC 700 autopilot repairs require specialized technicians; not all shops are equipped
- !IO-540 mid-time cylinder compression issues can develop; requires careful pre-buy inspection
Cirrus SR22
The Cirrus SR22 is the best-selling GA aircraft in the world, a distinction it has held for over two decades. Introduced in 2001, it pairs a Continental IO-550-N (310 hp) with the composite airframe, CAPS parachute and Garmin glass cockpit that define the modern Cirrus. Total SR22/SR22T production exceeds 8,000 aircraft.
- +180 KTAS cruise with 804 nm range at 75% power; strong cross-country platform
- +CAPS whole-airframe parachute provides unmatched safety margin
- +Excellent parts availability and Cirrus-authorized service center network
- !CAPS repack every ~10 years is the single largest recurring maintenance cost
- !Composite damage requires specialized certified technicians; repair costs can be substantial
- !Fixed gear and low-wing design poorly suited to backcountry or rough-field operations
Comparing a specific airplane you found for sale?
Get a Tail # Report on that tail number →