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10 Best Petrol Lawn Mowers 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower with 17.5 HP* Briggs and Stratton Single-Cylinder Engine, Gas Lawn Tractor with 7-Speed Transmission, Red/Black (13AN77XSA93)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,284
Weight and Maneuverability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
138 reviews

Weight and Maneuverability
The mower’s size suits average users well, but taller individuals may find it a bit cramped.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability stands out, with one user replacing a 30-year-old identical model that still runs reliably after multiple repairs.

The CRAFTSMAN 42" Gas Riding Lawn Mower is a solid choice for anyone with a larger yard, especially up to about 2 acres. It has a strong 17.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine, which means it starts easily and provides reliable power to handle thick or tall grass. The 42-inch cutting deck lets you cover more ground quickly, reducing your mowing time. You can adjust the cutting height between roughly 3 to 4 inches, giving you some flexibility depending on your lawn's needs.

This mower is ride-on style with a 7-speed transmission, so you can select a speed that feels comfortable and suitable for your yard’s terrain. Its 18-inch turning radius and large wheels make it easier to maneuver around obstacles like trees and flower beds. The mower is quite heavy at 410 pounds, which adds stability but may require some effort during setup or maintenance. It also offers an optional mulching kit, allowing you to finely chop grass clippings and return them to your lawn as natural fertilizer.

A limitation to consider is the somewhat limited cutting height adjustment range, and the engine requires manual effort to start, as there is no electric start feature. Assembly is required and may be challenging if you are not experienced with such tasks. This mower is well suited for those who need a powerful, efficient ride-on lawn mower for medium to large yards and are comfortable with manual operation and some assembly.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,284
Weight and Maneuverability
Durability and Build Quality

Most important from
138 reviews

Weight and Maneuverability
The mower’s size suits average users well, but taller individuals may find it a bit cramped.
Durability and Build Quality
Durability stands out, with one user replacing a 30-year-old identical model that still runs reliably after multiple repairs.
#2

Husqvarna Z254 (54") 24HP Briggs Zero Turn Lawn Mower 970797401

Rating
10.0
Engine Power
Cutting Width
Self-Propelled vs. Push

Most important from
18 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful performance with a robust 24HP engine that handles thick grass effortlessly.
Cutting Width
The 54-inch cutting deck covers large areas quickly, making it perfect for expansive yards.
Self-Propelled vs. Push
Hydrostatic transmission and zero-turn design ensure smooth, precise maneuvering around obstacles.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Generous fuel capacity allows for extended mowing sessions without frequent refills.
Weight and Maneuverability
Large size and weight require adequate storage space and handling capability but reward with speed and control.
Durability and Build Quality
Sturdy metal deck construction balances durability with efficient cutting performance.

The Husqvarna Z254 is a strong choice if you have a large yard and want a mower that’s both powerful and efficient. Its 24HP Briggs & Stratton V-Twin engine offers plenty of power to handle thick grass and extended mowing sessions without overheating. The 54-inch cutting width means you’ll cover more ground quickly, making it ideal for bigger lawns. The hydrostatic transmission and zero-turn design provide excellent maneuverability, so you can easily navigate around obstacles and tight corners.

With a 3.5-gallon fuel tank, it offers good runtime before needing a refill. The mower deck is metal and sturdy, which should hold up well over time, but being a stamped deck, it might not be as durable as fabricated decks in very rough conditions. It’s a zero-turn mower, which usually means it’s self-propelled and easier to steer, but it might have a steeper learning curve for beginners compared to a traditional push mower. The mower is quite large and weighs a fair amount, so it’s best suited to those who have storage space and can handle a heavier machine.

If you have a sizeable lawn and want a fast, powerful mower that’s easy to steer, the Husqvarna Z254 is a fitting option. Be prepared for its size and weight, and consider acquiring additional grass management tools if needed.

Rating
10.0
Engine Power
Cutting Width
Self-Propelled vs. Push

Most important from
18 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful performance with a robust 24HP engine that handles thick grass effortlessly.
Cutting Width
The 54-inch cutting deck covers large areas quickly, making it perfect for expansive yards.
Self-Propelled vs. Push
Hydrostatic transmission and zero-turn design ensure smooth, precise maneuvering around obstacles.
Fuel Tank Capacity
Generous fuel capacity allows for extended mowing sessions without frequent refills.
Weight and Maneuverability
Large size and weight require adequate storage space and handling capability but reward with speed and control.
Durability and Build Quality
Sturdy metal deck construction balances durability with efficient cutting performance.
#3

Husqvarna Z248F (48") 23HP Kawasaki Zero Turn Lawn Mower

Rating
9.1
Engine Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Fuel Tank Capacity

Most important from
20 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful, heavy-duty performance ideal for large, five-acre yards without any issues.
Weight and Maneuverability
Handles easily with its zero-turn technology, making mowing a large area less tiring and more efficient.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The generous 3.5-gallon fuel tank allows completing extensive mowing tasks in one go.
Durability and Build Quality
Built solidly and stable, the mower feels durable and well-suited for regular, demanding use.

The Husqvarna Z248F is a powerful zero-turn petrol lawn mower designed for those who want a fast and efficient way to cover large lawns. It features a strong 23HP two-cylinder engine, which provides plenty of power for tackling thick grass and uneven terrain. With a wide 48-inch cutting deck, it can mow large areas quickly, making it a good choice for bigger yards or properties. The cutting height can be adjusted between about 1.5 and 4 inches, though it offers only three preset positions, which may limit fine-tuning for some users.

This mower is self-propelled and uses zero-turn technology, making it highly maneuverable and able to easily navigate around obstacles with sharp turns, saving time and effort compared to traditional push mowers. At 595 pounds, it is quite heavy, which is typical for riding mowers. While this adds durability and stability, it might be less convenient for transport or storage in tight spaces. The mower's metal build suggests solid durability for regular use.

The Husqvarna Z248F is well suited for homeowners with medium to large lawns who want a reliable, powerful mower with excellent maneuverability. However, those needing more precise cutting height options or more detailed information on fuel and grass handling may want to seek additional details before making a decision.

Rating
9.1
Engine Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Fuel Tank Capacity

Most important from
20 reviews

Engine Power
Delivers powerful, heavy-duty performance ideal for large, five-acre yards without any issues.
Weight and Maneuverability
Handles easily with its zero-turn technology, making mowing a large area less tiring and more efficient.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The generous 3.5-gallon fuel tank allows completing extensive mowing tasks in one go.
Durability and Build Quality
Built solidly and stable, the mower feels durable and well-suited for regular, demanding use.

Buying Guide for the Best Petrol Lawn Mowers

Choosing the right petrol lawn mower can make a significant difference in maintaining your lawn efficiently and effectively. Petrol lawn mowers are known for their power and ability to handle larger lawns with ease. When selecting a petrol lawn mower, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Engine PowerEngine power, measured in horsepower (HP) or cubic centimeters (cc), determines how powerful the mower is. A more powerful engine can handle tougher grass and larger lawns more efficiently. For small to medium lawns, an engine with 125-150cc is usually sufficient. For larger lawns or tougher terrain, consider an engine with 150-200cc or more. Choose based on the size of your lawn and the type of grass you have.
Cutting WidthThe cutting width refers to the width of the mower's blade and determines how much grass is cut in a single pass. A wider cutting width means fewer passes to mow the lawn, saving time. For small lawns, a cutting width of 16-18 inches is adequate. Medium lawns benefit from 18-21 inches, while large lawns may require 21 inches or more. Select a cutting width that matches the size of your lawn to optimize efficiency.
Cutting Height AdjustmentCutting height adjustment allows you to change the height at which the grass is cut. This is important for maintaining the health of your lawn, as different grass types and seasons require different cutting heights. Look for mowers with multiple height settings, typically ranging from 1 to 4 inches. Choose a mower with easy-to-adjust settings to accommodate various grass lengths and conditions.
Self-Propelled vs. PushSelf-propelled mowers have a drive system that moves the mower forward, reducing the effort needed to push it. This is especially useful for larger lawns or hilly terrain. Push mowers, on the other hand, require manual effort to move. If you have a small, flat lawn, a push mower may be sufficient. For larger or uneven lawns, a self-propelled mower can make the task much easier and less tiring.
Grass Clipping ManagementGrass clipping management refers to how the mower handles the cut grass. Options include bagging, mulching, and side discharge. Bagging collects clippings in a bag for easy disposal, mulching finely chops clippings and returns them to the lawn as fertilizer, and side discharge ejects clippings to the side. Choose based on your preference for lawn maintenance: bagging for a clean look, mulching for lawn health, or side discharge for convenience.
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel tank capacity determines how long the mower can run before needing a refill. A larger fuel tank means fewer interruptions during mowing. For small lawns, a smaller tank (around 0.5 liters) is usually sufficient. For medium to large lawns, look for a tank capacity of 1 liter or more to ensure you can mow without frequent refueling. Consider the size of your lawn and how often you want to stop for refueling.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight of the mower affects how easy it is to maneuver, especially around obstacles and tight corners. Lighter mowers are easier to push and turn, while heavier mowers may offer more stability. For small lawns with many obstacles, a lighter mower is preferable. For larger, open lawns, a heavier mower can provide a smoother cut. Consider your lawn's layout and your physical ability to handle the mower's weight.
Durability and Build QualityDurability and build quality determine how long the mower will last and how well it can withstand regular use. Look for mowers with sturdy construction, such as steel decks and high-quality components. A durable mower will require less maintenance and provide reliable performance over time. Choose a mower with a solid build to ensure it can handle the demands of your lawn care routine.

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