Aircraft Comparison
Citation M2 vs. Phenom 100EV: A Detailed Comparison for the Prospective Buyer
For first-time jet buyers or those stepping up from turboprops, two of the most compelling light jet options are the Cessna Citation M2 and the Embraer Phenom 100EV. Both aircraft occupy a similar market niche and share several technological features—but key differences in performance, cabin design, operational cost, and resale value make each one uniquely suited to specific missions and preferences.
Below, we break down the core differences to help you make an informed decision.
Avionics and Technology
Both the Citation M2 and the Phenom 100EV are equipped with the Garmin G3000 integrated flight deck, offering touchscreen controls, synthetic vision, and modern situational awareness tools. This makes both aircraft well-suited for owner-pilots or operators who value intuitive, next-generation avionics.
Advantage: Tie.
Engines and Performance
Both jets are powered by FADEC-controlled turbofans, but their performance profiles differ:
Cruise Speed:
The Citation M2 outpaces the Phenom 100EV with a high-speed cruise of 404 knots at FL400, compared to the EV’s ~390 knots.
Climb:
The Citation M2 climbs to FL410 in under 25 minutes; the Phenom 100EV typically takes longer.
Range:
Citation M2 has a manufacturer-advertised range of 1,550 NM, about 100 NM longer than the Phenom 100EV.
Runway Performance:
While both perform similarly at sea level, the Citation M2 has a significant advantage on wet and contaminated runways, making it more versatile in marginal conditions.
High/Hot Performance:
The Phenom 100EV performs better than its predecessors (100 and 100E) in high/hot conditions, thanks to FADEC and more powerful PW617F1-E engines, but still lags behind the Citation M2.
Advantage: Citation M2 for better cruise, range, and adverse condition performance.
Cabin and Comfort
Cabin Size:
The Phenom 100EV has a larger cabin with a flat floor and more modern aesthetic. It feels more spacious for passengers, particularly in width and headroom.
Cockpit Space:
Pilots often report more legroom and comfort in the Citation M2’s cockpit, particularly on longer flights.
Baggage Capacity:
The Citation M2 offers 725 lbs of baggage capacity, compared to the Phenom 100EV’s 419 lbs.
Advantage: Tie. The Phenom 100EV wins for passenger cabin comfort and the Citation M2 wins for cockpit space.
Operating Costs and Maintenance
Fuel Burn:
The Phenom 100EV burns slightly less fuel due to its slower cruise speed; approximately 90–100 gallons/hour, compared to the Citation M2’s 100–110 GPH.
Maintenance Support:
The Citation M2 benefits from Textron Aviation’s expansive global service network, while Embraer support is strong but more limited in North America.
Parts Availability:
Textron’s parts logistics are often cited as more responsive and widely available.
Advantage: Citation M2 for long-term maintenance convenience and global support access.
Ownership Experience and Value
Fleet Size:
The Citation M2 has a larger active fleet, resulting in greater resale liquidity and more available pilots.
Resale Trends:
Citation M2s tend to hold value slightly better and resell faster than Phenom 100EVs, partially due to brand familiarity and broader market acceptance.
Training:
More type-rated M2 pilots are available, and many transitioning pilots come from earlier Citations, Mustangs, or turboprops.
Advantage: Citation M2 for resale value and ownership flexibility.
Ownership Experience and Value
Fleet Size:
The Citation M2 has a larger active fleet, resulting in greater resale liquidity and more available pilots.
Resale Trends:
Citation M2s tend to hold value slightly better and resell faster than Phenom 100EVs, partially due to brand familiarity and broader market acceptance.
Training:
More type-rated M2 pilots are available, and many transitioning pilots come from earlier Citations, Mustangs, or turboprops.
Advantage: Citation M2 for resale value and ownership flexibility.
Model Years and Comparison Fairness
The Phenom 100EV launched in 2017, offering modern enhancements over its predecessors. To make a fair value comparison, prospective buyers should look at 2017–2018 model year Citation M2s with similar avionics and hours.
Additionally, Citation M2s can be upgraded with Tamarack Active Winglets, improving climb performance, reducing fuel burn, and adding up to 30 minutes of extra range—a unique aftermarket option not available for the 100EV.
Citation M2 vs. Phenom 100EV Comparison
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
Cruise Speed | Citation M2 |
Range | Citation M2 |
Cabin Comfort | Phenom 100EV |
Cockpit Comfort | Citation M2 |
Baggage Capacity | Citation M2 |
High/Hot Performance | Phenom 100EV |
Runway Performance | Citation M2 |
Operating Cost Efficiency | Phenom 100EV (slight) |
Maintenance Support | Citation M2 |
Resale | Citation M2 |
Bottom Line
If you value a roomier cabin, sleek design, and slightly lower fuel burn, the Phenom 100EV is a compelling option. But if your mission calls for better performance, greater range, stronger resale value, and superior support, the Citation M2 is the more capable and versatile light jet.
Need help evaluating which aircraft is right for your mission? Contact us today for a personalized mission profile analysis and side-by-side ownership comparison.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Denise Wilson, CAM, is the founder and President of The Jet Agent. Wilson has more than 25 years of experience in all facets of the aviation industry. This includes 20+ years of flying Citations and other jets in both business aviation and commercial operations, and 18 years assisting clients in the acquisition and sales of jet aircraft.
She previously served as founder & CEO of Desert Jet, collectively consisting of an aircraft acquisitions and sales division, a jet charter and management company, a jet maintenance business, and a popular FBO featuring a newly built private terminal, Desert Jet Center. Under her leadership, the company grew exponentially, ranking on the Inc. 500 list of the nation’s fastest growing, privately-owned companies five consecutive years.
As a jet aircraft broker and acquisition consultant, Wilson provides concierge-level acquisition representation, aircraft sales, and coaching to clients. She authored the Amazon #1 Bestseller “The Insider’s Guide to Buying and Selling Jets.”
ABOUT THE JET AGENT
The Jet Agent helps clients navigate the complex world of jet acquisitions and sales with confidence. The Jet Agent is in the top 5% of aircraft brokers worldwide by transaction volume and ranks as the #1 seller of Citation M2s and CJ3s. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, with offices in Denver, Dallas and Sacramento, The Jet Agent is dedicated to elevating the aircraft brokerage experience with expert guidance and concierge-level service.
