The best-selling airplane in history, still rolling off the line in Independence, Kansas — and one of the simplest, most liquid airframes in the world to finance.
| Engine | Lycoming IO-360-L2A |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp |
| Seats | 4 |
| Max cruise speed | ~124 ktas |
| Max range | ~640 nm (economy cruise) |
| Useful load | ~895 lb |
| Max takeoff weight | 2,550 lb |
| Usable fuel | 53 gal |
| Service ceiling | ~14,000 ft |
| Avionics | Garmin G1000 NXi (standard) |
| Dimensions (span / length / height) | 36 ft 1 in / 27 ft 2 in / 8 ft 11 in |
| Typical price | New ~$430k–$550k · Used (G1000-era) ~$150k–$589k |
Figures are for the current 172S with G1000 NXi. Earlier 172M/N/P/R models (steam-gauge or early-glass, 1975–2006) run cheaper and are tracked separately — see the classic-Skyhawk comparison below.
New-build, used G1000, or a flight-school fleet deal — the Skyhawk is the easiest single-engine piston in the world to finance. Get a real number before you order or shop.
| 172S Skyhawk | Piper Archer TX | Diamond DA40 NG | Cirrus SR20 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 180 hp | 180 hp | 168 hp (diesel) | 215 hp |
| Max cruise | ~124 kt | ~128 kt | ~150 kt | 155 kt |
| Parachute | None | None | None | CAPS |
| Best for | Ab initio training | Flight-school fleets | Efficient trainer | Step-in / training |
Against a Piper Archer it's a wash on speed and mission — the choice usually comes down to fleet parts commonality and resale. Against a Diamond DA40 or a Cirrus SR20 it gives up speed and (in the SR20's case) a parachute, but nothing beats it for factory support, parts availability, and resale liquidity.
A new 172S Skyhawk with G1000 NXi runs roughly $430,000–$550,000 depending on avionics and interior options. Used G1000-era Skyhawks (2000s–present) trade from about $150,000 to $589,000 depending on age, avionics, and engine time. Estimate a payment.
Max cruise is about 124 knots true at 75% power, with a range near 640 nm at economy cruise — built for training and short cross-countries, not speed.
Yes. Textron Aviation builds the 172S Skyhawk today in Independence, Kansas, with Garmin G1000 NXi standard, making it the longest continuously-produced airplane in history.
Garmin G1000 NXi System Release 7 (Smart Glide, Remote Wake) and Lycoming's dual electronic ignition system, announced April 2026 and shown at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026, with deliveries beginning late 2026 into early 2027.
Yes, as a certified single with terms up to 20 years and as little as 15% down — for individual owners and flight-school fleet purchases alike. See your rate.
Sources: Aviation Consumer, Cessna 172 used-aircraft guide; Textron Aviation, Cessna Piston Fleet flight-deck upgrade announcement (April 2026). Specifications from Textron/Cessna 172S manufacturer data.
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