With its 16-horsepower Kohler Command engine, the Simplicity Coronet riding mower is nearly as powerful as some lawn tractors, an admirable trait in a compact rider.

It's designed to provide a comparable cut, too, thanks to the technology Simplicity also uses on its more expensive mowers. Its 34-inch Free Floating deck moves left and right and up and down to accommodate the contours of a yard, and the mower's Ground Hugger design lets the rear wheels pivot independently from the frame. Both features combine to ensure a precise cut and a stable ride.

The seat deck pops open to provide easy access to the engine and 2-gallon see-through fuel tank.

The Simplicity Coronet mower has a tight turning radius (12 inches), which provides even more control. All the controls are within reach, including the hand-operated speed lever and height-adjustment dial, which lets the user set the height-of-cut between one and 3-3/4 inches.