The Husqvarna YTH2348 lawn tractor is a mid-size, easy-riding tractor that's suitable for lawns of 1 to about 3 acres that gets its power from a 2-cylinder Briggs & Stratton Intek engine that meets California lawn and garden emissions regulations. Its automatic hydrostatic transmission gives it a smooth feel and provides excellent control from its foot pedal without requiring user-operated shifting, which makes for a more pleasant ride. It is worth noting, however, that while hydrostatic transmissions are quite easy to operate, they do require regular maintenance in order to stay that way. The YTH2348 offers six cutting heights (from 5 to 3.5 inches) and a 3-gallon fuel tank that lasts through roughly three acres of mowing depending upon the terrain.

We truly appreciate the tractor's tight 18-inch turning radius, which makes it easy to cut around shrubs and trees. The seat is quite comfortable and the cup holder comes in handy on hot afternoons; in fact, this is a tractor that is ideal for older or disabled users, since it is so comfortable and easy to operate.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) Tier III emissions standards have made it a bit more difficult to find lawn tractors in the Golden State, but a specific version of this machine meets these new standards while still providing the power and quality of non-CARB Tier III models. The new California standards, which are targeted specifically at lawn and garden equipment, require a 35-percent reduction in emissions and a 73-percent reduction in evaporative emissions. These higher standards aren't just good for the environment, they also mean the engine components are better.

On the down side, this tractor is just not designed for hilly yards. It has a relatively wide deck and doesn't support ground-engaging attachments, so it's best for big, flat lawns.


Pros: Comfortable, easy to operate, powerful, maneuverable, version meets new California emissions standards
Cons: Does not have the rough-terrain abilities of a garden tractor, transmission requires careful maintenance

Warranty
2 years, limited (residential)