A six-seat retractable single can be a logical and compelling. step-up aircraft. Some are as fast as many twins, can carry sizable payloads, can accommodate plenty of modern avionics and generally are straightforward to fly. A single engine avoids a twin’s upkeep costs, while most systems (with landing gear being a notable exception) aren’t overly complex to work on. So which model do you buy?
Despite all the appeal, the market isn’t littered with obvious choices. There is the 36-series Bonanza, Piper’s Lance/Saratoga and Cessna’s 210 Centurion. There is also the non-pressurized, cabin-class Piper Matrix, but its price point may not make many prospective purchasers’ lists. If fixed landing gear is more to your liking, then Piper, Cirrus and Cessna have other offerings making the cut.