The Cabri is powered by a single Lycoming O-360 piston engine, which has been rated to max continuous power and 5-minute power.Kenyon 2008, p. 7. The engine incorporates a solid-state electronic ignition system which protects against over-speed upon startup and has greater reliability. The engine mounts also utilize vibration isolation techniques for increased crew comfort. The engine is positioned directly behind the cabin, making it easier to access for maintenance; while the engine exhaust is elevated above the tail boom in order to reduce noise and lower the risk of ground fires upon landing. The maintenance costs of the Cabri are claimed to be "very low", in part due to only three components on the rotorcraft being time-limited, all others being condition-limited instead. The cost per overhaul of the Cabri is half of that of comparable rotorcraft such as the Robinson R22.Dubois, Thierry. "Guimbal Details Maintenance Numbers for the Costs to Operate Cabri G2."Rotor & Wing, 1 November 2013.
