Includes New Ultra-Lux "X" Option, CMX Maintenance Package
On the heels of its long-anticipated announcement of the
availability of a known-icing option, Cirrus Aircraft also revealed
new features, upgrades, and option packages to its SR20, SR22, and
Turbo model aircraft lineup for 2009.
New aircraft features include the introduction of Known Ice
Protection on SR22 and Turbo models, as ANN previously detailed;
new "S", "GS", and "GTS" packaged options available on all models;
an all-new 'X-Edition' premium interior and exterior upgrade
package, new paint schemes across the model line and more.
"From an SR20 S starting at $269,900 to a Turbo GTS with known
ice protection for $598,500, we believe our lineup today is the
most compelling ever offered in general aviation," said Cirrus
co-founder and Chairman Alan Klapmeier. "More than ever, each
Cirrus model addresses a unique market segment and we have listened
to our owners to understand their preferred equipment and options
packages both here and abroad. Today, our new lineup of SR20, SR22,
and now simply 'Turbo' -- with new S, GS, GTS and X-Edition option
packages available on each -- takes the unique Cirrus combination
of performance, capability and value even further and well beyond
any other airplane available in the GA marketplace today."
The base-model S is geared towards fleet buyers, as well as new
pilots. Ten-inch PFD and MFD sreeens are standard -- provided by
either Avidyne or Garmin -- as is an S-TEC 55SR autopilot.
Upgrading to a "GS" model moves to 12" screens, S-TEC 55X
autopilot, basic ice protection for the SR22 and Turbo, unique
exterior and interior scheme options and other features, based on
selected avionics platform.
The flagship GTS comes equipped with -- or replaces -- all
components of the previous two levels and adds duals AHRS, Garmin
GFC700 digital autopilot, Synthetic Vision Technology, upgrades to
Known Ice Protection for SR22 and Turbo models, premium-level
exterior scheme options and additional features dependent on
selected avionics platform.
Now standard on all products is a Mode S transponder. On
aircraft with either the Basic or Known Ice Protection System,
leading edge protectant is now included.
The top-line "X-Edition" provides customers with a unique
combination of ultra-premium, personalized interior and exterior
upgrades. X-Edition features include a new exterior paint scheme;
the introduction of Alcantara, a faux suede seen on many high-end
luxury automobiles, into the cabin; contrasting seat, yoke and
glare shield stitching; genuine carbon fiber instrument panel
accents; an all new suede headliner; unique X-Edition interior and
exterior badging and more.
To further enhance the ownership experience, Cirrus also
launched CMX, its new "assurance by the 100-hour" pre-purchased
maintenance and service program. CMX is purchased in 100-hour
increments and is available for the first two or three years of
ownership, depending on warranty period selected.
While the details are a bit more complicated, CMX essentally
comes down to "you pay for the fluids, we pay for the rest," in
Klapmeier's words. "Predictable ownership costs and Cirrus'
management of maintenance services removes a significant anxiety
associated with aircraft ownership and operation. This is part of
Cirrus' continuing mission to broaden participation in general
aviation -- bringing more people, previously unfamiliar with owning
an airplane, into the fold."
Though not expressly stated, Cirrus also appears to
be taking steps away from its earlier, and somewhat enigmatic,
company moniker of "Cirrus Design Corporation"... adopting the more
traditional name of Cirrus Aircraft in company announcements, and
even the company Web site.