Cessna Citation Excel vs Cessna Citation XLS
The Citation Excel (1998-2004) and Citation XLS (2004-2008) / XLS+ (2008-onwards) are predecessor and successor mid-size Citations — same fuselage, but the XLS adds Pro Line 21 avionics and the XLS+ further refines systems and adds FADEC.
Live Market Snapshot
Current asking-price market, aggregated across multiple marketplaces · refreshed daily
- For sale now
- 100
- Median asking
- $6,497,500
- Range
- $1,630,750–$15,295,000
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 26
- Source marketplaces
- 13
- Model years available
- 1999–2025
- For sale now
- 29
- Listed on 2+ marketplaces
- 8
- Source marketplaces
- 10
- Model years available
- 2004–2025
Live data from AeroGurus, aggregated daily across the used-aircraft market. Figures are current asking prices, not appraisals — confirm with a pre-buy inspection.
Full Specs Comparison
| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation Excel | Cessna Citation XLS |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $1,630,750 – $15,295,000 | $2,276,000 – $13,736,000 |
| Category | Midsize Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 9 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 410 kts (759 km/h) | 433 kts (802 km/h) |
| Range | 1,858 nm (3,441 km) | 1,796 nm (3,326 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 5,100 lbs (2,313 kg) | — |
| Fuel Capacity | 580.0 gal (2195 L) | — |
| Fuel Burn | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) | 185.0 GPH (700 L/h) |
| TBO | 4,000 hrs | 4,500 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | $350,000 | $400,000 |
| Annual Fixed | $320,000 | $350,000 |
| Hourly Variable | $2,200 | $2,400 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation Excel
Cessna Citation XLS
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation Excel or Cessna Citation XLS?
Bottom line: Choose the XLS/XLS+ for the modern Pro Line 21 cockpit, refined systems and the youngest mid-size Citation. Choose the Excel only for materially lower acquisition cost — same fundamental airframe and cabin. ================================================================ # CITATION M2 × COMPETITORS (4) ================================================================
Pick the Citation Excel if…
- Budget matters — from $1,630,750 vs $2,276,000, you save ~$645,250.
- Lower operating cost — ~$2200/hr vs $2400/hr.
- Longer range — 1858 nm vs 1796 nm.
- More inventory — 91 listings vs 27.
Pick the Citation XLS if…
- Faster cruise — 433 kts vs 410 kts.
- Newer design — production from 2003 vs 1998.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.