The Whirlpool GW397LXU is a slide-in gas range that has an odd problem. Although Whirlpool includes continuous grates across the surface of the GW397LXU's basic four-burner configuration, it strikes us as odd that the grates don't extend all the way to the edges of the cooktop; if they did, they would further enhance the spaciousness of the cooking platform. Despite these oddly short grates, the surface design of this range is delightful to the eye, which makes up for the space-skimping arrangement to an extent.

The four surface burners of the Whirlpool GW397LXU all offer fairly good control, but only the 14,000-Btu power burner can pump out the high heat that you need to produce a stir-fry or a super fast boil. The controls are simple-to-use dials combined with the electronic oven display and clock/timer that we commonly see on ranges of this class.

The 4.5-cubic-foot capacity of the GW397LXU's self-cleaning oven isn't enormous, but it's certainly not tiny, either. The oven offers a delay bake feature that allows you to start the oven while you're out, and the hold feature allows you to keep food warm at a constant temperature until it is time to serve it.

Whirlpool offers this solid but basic slide-in range in black, white, stainless and biscuit. It includes a full width storage drawer across the bottom for your extra cookware.

Though it's not flashy, the Whirlpool GW397LXU slide-in gas range is better than basic; in fact, it's a very good choice, particularly if your cooking needs are not exceptionally complex.


Pros: Attractive, basic slide-in range
Cons: Grates don't extend fully to the edge of the range

Warranty
1 year