KitchenAid's KFGU766VSS stands out in the crowded field of gas cooktops in a number of unique ways. First of all, this 36-inch model greatly ups the maximum output for gas burners. This cooktop offers one of the highest output Ultra Power Burner we've seen, with a whopping 20,000 Btu. Like many cooktops with this type of output, it performs well for high heat tasks, such as stir frying, flash searing and rapid boiling.

A second and perhaps more innovative feature of this model is its clear-coat finish. This finish is designed to preserve the like-new look of the stainless steel surface. Those familiar with stainless steel products know that this type of finish typically scratches and mars as a natural part of use. In this case, the coating protects the surface and keeps it shiny. Perfectionists may appreciate this coating, while purists may find it cheapens the cooktop and gives it a plastic-like appearance.

With touch-activated controls, this cooktop immediately responds to your commands. In just a second's time you can reduce the heat of a full boil to a gentle simmer, making this model an excellent choice for more challenging cooking tasks. Easy to keep clean, the KFGU766VSS offers fully sealed burners that prevent spills from ever entering the burner box. Full-width, continuous grates are also provided, serving up a flat surface for effortlessly moving pans around. Black in color, these grates are durable as well as stain resistant.

Offering just five burners instead of the usual six, this cooktop surface is not overcrowded and has a very large center cooking area that's ideal for oversize stockpots. The KitchenAid KFGU766VSS's design is attractive and offers that clear coating that's especially good for keeping that brand-new look.


Pros: Clear-coat protects surface from its tendency to mar with use, very high output burner, large center cooking area
Cons: Coating may not appeal to everyone, five burners instead of a possible six

Warranty
1 year