Looking out over a lineup of lawn mowers at a local dealer or home improvement store can seem daunting at best. So many of them look the same that, at first glance, it is difficult to know what sets one mower apart from another. These days it pays to stand out in a crowd, especially when shopping for a lawn mower. From great features to great buys, the gasoline-powered self-propelled mowers featured here have that something extra that will make you say wow.

Cub Cadet CC-989 Self-Propelled Gas Mower

It's not too often that you can find a quality mower with premium features for less than premium cash, but the Cub Cadet CC-989 is at the head of the pack. This affordably priced mower features a variable-speed, rear wheel drive system for maximum performance and versatility. Unlike a single speed mower that offers only one setting, a variable speed mower lets you choose the speed that best suits your walking pace and mowing conditions. Power to the rear wheels gives you more maneuverability and traction than a front wheel drive. Other features include 3-in-1 operation (it can mulch, bag or side discharge); an enhanced CycloCut system for a high quality of cut, superior mulching and improved bagging; ball bearing wheels; front caster wheels; a single lever height adjuster; and an overhead cam engine with an Auto Return Choke System for reliable starting of a cold engine. This is a great package at a great price.

Cub Cadet CC-989 Self-Propelled Gas Mower
Cub Cadet CC-989 Self-Propelled Gas Mower

Husqvarna 65021CHV Self-Propelled Gas Mower

Mowers at this price point typically come as a no-frills package capable of only one or two cutting operations, but not the Husqvarna 65021CHV. Equipped for 3-in-1 operation (mulch, bag, side discharge), this entry-level is anything but basic. Noteworthy features include an efficient overhead valve engine, AutoWalk variable-speed system, hefty 12-inch high rear wheels with ball bearing support and a dustless bagger. Let's not forget the adjustable "comfort grip" foam handle that folds for storage. Okay, so this is a front wheel drive unit, but it has plenty of power and performance to keep a nice flat lawn looking it's best.

Toro Super Recycler 20054 Self-Propelled Gas Mower

The Toro Super Recycler 20054 has a lot to offer, including one of the best cutting systems we've seen. The patented system features a 21-inch cast aluminum deck and a high-efficiency recycling blade that cuts grass cleanly and efficiently. Here's how it works: An accelerator lifts up the grass under the deck and after the blade cuts it clean, two kickers thrust the clippings back into the blade where grass is cut and re-cut into a super fine mulch that disappears back into the lawn. The variable rear wheel drive system features Toro's Personal Pace, one of the best self-propel systems on the market. Just put your hands on the handle and start walking. Other features on this 2-in-1 unit (mulch, side discharge) include a wash-out port for easy removal of grass beneath the deck, a 6.5-hp Guaranteed-to-Start engine and a five year full coverage warranty -- wow indeed.

Lawn-Boy Insight Platinum 10795 Self-Propelled Gas Mower

When it comes to high performance, premium features, ergonomic comfort and ease of use, the Lawn-Boy Insight Platinum 10795 gets high marks all around. This mower features a rear wheel drive Sens-a-Speed self-propel system that automatically adjusts the mower to match your walking speed, from 0 to 5 miles per hour. The 3-in-1 cutting system includes a deep dome cast aluminum deck and tri-notch blade for a clean cut, superior bagging and mulching performance. An overhead valve engine with Auto Return Choke System, easy lift bag, quick stow lever, and large radius wheels that are also inset for close trimming round out the premium features, not to mention a five year full coverage warranty. We think this mower is a standout performer for any lawn.

Honda HRX217HXA Self-Propelled Gas Mower

The Honda HRX17HXA delivers the ultimate in mowing performance and flexibility. The rear wheel drive cruise control gives you infinitely variable-speed control between 0 to 4 miles per hour. Other features include a roto-stop blade brake, a high-impact Xenoy Deck, ball bearing wheels and an eco-friendly Honda 190cc OHC engine. Honda's Versamow System is in a class by itself. The 4-in-1 mowing system lets you select the standard mulch, bag or rear discharge mode but goes one better by allowing you to simultaneously bag and mulch at the same time with the flip of a lever. Now that is mowing maximized to the extreme.