The Kenmore 16301 3-burner Gas Grill 16301 is styled in heavy-gauge steel with a vibrant red enamel finish for a striking appearance. Besides its compelling looks, this model has a smart design with user-friendly controls and features. This grill tested extremely well, starting with its instant light electronic ignition and ending with beautifully seared, flavorful foods. We prepared some traditional barbecue favorites including burgers, chicken breasts, vegetables and garlic toast. Within 5 minutes, the temperature gauge on the hood registered 375 degrees Fahrenheit; after 10 minutes, it had reached 475 degrees and was ready to grill.

The grill's size (26 inches deep by 58.75 inches wide by 47.75 inches tall) is ideal for family barbecues, providing ample cooking space with both its main grilling surface and a side burner (for warming sauces or side dishes). There's also a sturdy 15.5x20.5-inch side shelf. The three stainless steel tube burners combine to provide 36,000 Btu of cooking power.

The cooking surface consists of two 11.5x18.75-inch porcelain-coated grates, which deliver a uniform heat -- perfect for searing meats, fish or chicken breasts. It handled the delicate garlic toast with ease, demonstrating its consistent heat from one side of the grill surface to the other. The total primary and secondary cooking space equals 608 square inches, which includes the unit's 6.5x22-inch stationary warming rack. The height of the warming rack -- 7 inches above the grilling surface -- is the highest we've seen, putting foods a bit further away from the heat source.

This model also includes a 12,000-Btu side burner, which comes in handy for cooking or warming accompaniments such as baked beans, grilled onions or roasted potatoes, using a separate pan or skillet. Other niceties include two towel bars, three S hooks for hanging utensils and a condiment basket mounted inside the cabinet door. We liked that the burner cover is flush-mounted, so when not in use the area can be used for extra workspace.

Three large stainless steel molded knobs provide independent operation of each of the unit's three burners, enabling you to achieve both direct and indirect grilling. A beautiful enclosed cabinet hides the LP tank from view and four caster wheels provide full mobility for moving the grill.

The only complaint we had was that the black paint had chipped in a few spots during transport and setup. We were able to touch up the spots with black enamel paint but it concerned us that the paint would flake so easily. The grease tray on this model is also a bit smaller than some others we've seen and will require more frequent emptying.


Pros: 36,000 Btu, 12,000-Btu side burner with flush-mounted lid, ample shelf/workspace
Cons: Small grease tray, slight paint chipping

Warranty
1 year, limited