Cirrus SR20 vs Cirrus SR22
The Cirrus SR20 and SR22 share the same composite airframe, glass cockpit, and CAPS whole-airframe parachute, so a buyer is really choosing how much power and speed to pay for. The SR20’s smaller engine makes it the more attainable step-up and a common first Cirrus, with lower fuel and overhaul costs. The SR22’s 310 hp delivers markedly faster cruise and more useful load for serious cross-country flying — at a higher purchase price and running cost.
Key specifications, side by side
| Cirrus SR20 | Cirrus SR22 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 4–5 | 4–5 |
| Engine | Continental IO-390 (later) | Continental IO-550-N |
| Horsepower | 215 hp | 310 hp |
| Cruise speed | ~155 kt | ~183 kt |
| Range | ~700 nm | ~1,000 nm |
| Useful load | ~1,050 lb | ~1,300 lb |
| Fuel (usable) | 56 gal | 92 gal |
| Safety | CAPS whole-airframe parachute | CAPS whole-airframe parachute |
Representative figures for a popular variant of each family — exact specs vary by model year, engine, and avionics configuration.
What's different about the Cirrus SR20
- Same airframe, parachute, and glass cockpit as the SR22 at a lower purchase and operating cost.
- 215 hp trades top speed for affordability — a popular step-up trainer and a common first Cirrus.
- Fixed gear plus CAPS keeps insurance attainable for lower-time pilots moving into a modern composite.
What's different about the Cirrus SR22
- The CAPS whole-airframe parachute is the headline safety feature and a major insurance and resale talking point.
- 310 hp and ~183 kt cruise make it one of the fastest fixed-gear pistons — a serious cross-country machine.
- Side-yoke, glass panel, and a premium cabin feel closer to a modern car than a legacy GA aircraft, at a premium price.
Cirrus SR20 vs Cirrus SR22 — frequently asked questions
Quick answers for buyers and prospective co-owners.
What is the difference between a Cirrus SR20 and SR22?
Mostly power. They share the same composite airframe, glass cockpit, and CAPS parachute, but the SR20 has about 215 hp (~155 kt cruise) while the SR22 has 310 hp (~183 kt) with more useful load.
Which Cirrus is cheaper to own?
The SR20. Its lower fuel burn and smaller engine to overhaul make it the more economical and attainable choice, and a common first Cirrus. The SR22 costs more to buy and run but flies faster and carries more.
Which is better for cross-country flying?
The SR22, thanks to its higher cruise speed and useful load. The SR20 is plenty for training and regional trips and gives the same glass panel and parachute for less money.