Toro's top-of-the-line entry in its GT2000 series, the GT2300 garden tractor combines power and durability with an affordable price tag. The 26-horsepower Kohler Courage twin-cylinder OHV engine delivers enough juice to let the tractor tackle just about any yard maintenance task, or cut grass at up to 6.4 miles an hour. The extra-wide 54-inch deck comes standard with side-discharge capability, but you can also purchase a mulching kit or bagging attachment.

A heavy-duty front bumper and cast-iron front axle add to the tractor's durability. In addition to a well-built design, Toro has included several nice touches to make spending time on the tractor less arduous, including a comfortable, high-backed seat; a 3-gallon fuel tank, which cuts down on refueling; the easy-to-operate Attach-a-Matic system, which makes it easy to add and remove accessories; cruise control; and headlights. The GT2300 retails for less than $3,300, and includes a 2-year limited warranty.