Cessna Citation Sovereign vs Cessna Citation Excel
The Citation Excel and Citation Sovereign are neighboring mid-size Citations that buyers weigh when moving up in cabin and range. The Excel is the efficient mid-size with a stand-up cabin for shorter trips, while the larger Sovereign adds significant range, a longer cabin, and transcontinental capability. The choice is driven by typical trip length.
Full Specs Comparison
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| Spec / Model | Cessna Citation Sovereign | Cessna Citation Excel |
|---|---|---|
|
|
|
| Price Range | $7,300,000 – $25,495,000 | $700,000 – $15,295,000 |
| Category | Super-Midsize Jet | Midsize Jet |
| Model Specifications | ||
| Seats | 12 | 9 |
| Cruise Speed | 430 kts (796 km/h) | 410 kts (759 km/h) |
| Range | 2,850 nm (5,278 km) | 1,858 nm (3,441 km) |
| Service Ceiling | 47,000 ft (14,326 m) | 45,000 ft (13,716 m) |
| Max Gross Weight | 30,300 lbs (13,744 kg) | 20,200 lbs (9,163 kg) |
| Useful Load | 6,300 lbs (2,858 kg) | 5,100 lbs (2,313 kg) |
| Fuel Capacity | 851.0 gal (3221 L) | 580.0 gal (2195 L) |
| Fuel Burn | 210.0 GPH (795 L/h) | 170.0 GPH (643 L/h) |
| TBO | — | 4,000 hrs |
| Overhaul Cost | — | $350,000 |
| Annual Fixed | — | $320,000 |
| Hourly Variable | — | $2,200 |
| Engines | 2 x Turbofan | 2 x Turbofan |
Cost of Ownership
EstimateCessna Citation Sovereign
Fuel$1,155/hr
Cessna Citation Excel
Fuel$935/hr
Variable$2,200/hr
Annual Fixed$320,000/yr
Total (200 hrs/yr)
$760,000/yr
Which Should You Buy: Cessna Citation Sovereign or Cessna Citation Excel?
Bottom line: Choose the Excel for efficient regional and shorter trips at lower operating cost. Step up to the Sovereign when you need true coast-to-coast range, a larger cabin, and more seating, accepting higher fuel burn and acquisition cost for the added capability.
Pick the Citation Sovereign if…
- More seats — 12 vs 9.
- Faster cruise — 430 kts vs 410 kts.
- Longer range — 2850 nm vs 1858 nm.
- Newer design — production from 2004 vs 1998.
Pick the Citation Excel if…
- Budget matters — from $700,000 vs $7,300,000, you save ~$6,600,000.
- More inventory — 105 listings vs 53.
Auto-generated from current market data and published specs. Confirm with a pre-buy inspection and professional appraisal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Cessna Citation Sovereign or Cessna Citation Excel?
It depends on your mission and budget.
The Citation Sovereign cruises at 430 kts with 2,850 nm range.
The Citation Excel cruises at 410 kts with 1,858 nm range.
Review the specs table above to find which fits your flying profile.
How do prices compare?
Cessna Citation Sovereign: from $11,500,000.
Prices vary by year, hours, avionics, and condition. Always get a pre-buy inspection.
What's the difference between Cessna Citation Sovereign and Cessna Citation Excel?
Seats: 12 vs 9.
Cruise: 430 vs 410 kts.
Range: 2850 vs 1858 nm.
Which is cheaper to operate per hour?
Citation Excel: about $2200/hr variable cost.
Variable cost includes fuel, reserves and overhaul accruals. Annual fixed costs (hangar, insurance, annual inspection) add to the total.
Which has more seats and useful load?
Citation Sovereign: 12 seats / 6,300 lb useful load.
Citation Excel: 9 seats / 5,100 lb useful load.
Useful load = max gross weight minus empty weight; it determines how much fuel plus payload you can carry.
How does maintenance compare — TBO and overhaul cost?
Citation Excel: 4,000-hour TBO, overhaul ~$350,000.
Reaching the time-between-overhaul (TBO) triggers a mandatory engine/airframe rebuild that affects resale value.
Disclaimer: All prices and cost estimates are from third-party sources for informational purposes only. Always obtain professional appraisal and inspection before purchase.
Prices updated daily · Data: FAA Registry, NTSB · About our data