TYPE: Four-seat lightplane.

PROGRAMME: First reports of Cessna Next Generation Piston (NGP) project emerged in 2005. Initial flight, unannounced, 23 June 2006; public debut at AirVenture, Oshkosh, 24 July 2006 when prototype, N99110—then with some 20 flying hours—made three unheralded flypasts immediately following unveiling of Cessna LSA.

DESIGN FEATURES: Intended to regain ground lost to Cirrus composites four-seat family. Superficial resemblance to Cessna 177 Cardinal, although slightly larger. High, cantilever wing slightly forward-swept, tapered and with inboard leading edge cutaway to give maximum up- and sideward visibility. Trapezoidal tailplane.
Prototype apparently in Cessna 182 class; lower-powered version of some 134 kW (180 hp) expected to be developed as Cessna 172 follow-on; six-seat version could replace Cessna 206.

FLYING CONTROLS: Conventional and manual. Horn-balanced rudder and elevators. Flight- adjustable trim tab in starboard elevator. Slotted flaps.

STRUCTURE: Composites fuselage and metal wing, rudder and elevators.

LANDING GEAR: Tricycle type; fixed. Fuselage-mounted spring cantilever mainwheel legs; cantilever trailing link nosewheel. Fairings on all wheels.

POWER PLANT: Not disclosed, but believed to be six-cylinder in 149 to 172 kW (200 to 230 hp) range driving a three-blade propeller.

ACCOMMODATION: Four doors for ease of access; interior trim based on luxury motorcar; cabin has a rear window. Rear baggage compartment with external door; port.