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.

FMI: www.cirrusaircraft.com