Diamond DA40 XLS

Thursday, April 17, 2008 at 09:29 PM ET

Verified

The Diamond DA40 XLS looking pretty over the shores of Lake Buchanan, near Llano, TX. Robert Goyer

Key Takeaways:

The Diamond DA40 XLS features a reshaped canopy designed to provide increased headroom for all occupants.
It is remarkably well-equipped with advanced avionics, including the Garmin G1000 system, WAAS, and the GFC 700 autopilot.
Performance enhancements such as a Powerflow exhaust system, a new three-blade MT composite prop, and enhanced wheel pants contribute to its ability to achieve a 150-knot true airspeed.
The aircraft offers pleasant ground handling, described as a delight to taxi.

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Diamond DA40 XLS — Diamond DA40 XLS cruising back to Austin, TX. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — Diamond DA40 XLS en route to Austin. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — A delight to taxi, the Diamond DA40 XLS is shown here on the ramp at Llano Municipal. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — The canopy has been reshaped, making it longer on the vertical for more headroom along the side for all occupants. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — Frontal view of the reshaped canopy. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — With the combination of the G1000 system, and the addition of WAAS and the GFC 700 autopilot, the DA40 XLS is a remarkably well-equipped airplane. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — The PFD shows us at cruise at 5,500 feet headed east direct to Austin on a warm winter day truing 150 knots. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — The engine utility on the MFD offers large round-gauge graphical engine instruments and more. The electronic instruments are not a replacement for steam gauges but an improvement. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — The XLS breaker panel. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — The Powerflow exhaust system helps make the XLS a true 150-knot cruiser. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — A new, three-blade MT composite prop is standard on the XLS and contributes to the noticeably better true airspeed. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — Diamond DA40 XLS cruising back to Austin, TX. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — Diamond DA40 XLS. Robert Goyer

Diamond DA40 XLS — This Diamond DA40 XLS features enhanced wheel pants for reduced drag. Robert Goyer

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