Petrol Guide · Updated May 2026
Best Self-Propelled Petrol Mowers UK 2026
If you've got a big garden and you're sick of pushing, a self-propelled petrol mower does the hard work for you. We've compared the best options from Mountfield, Honda and Cobra against specs and verified owner reviews.
Why self-propelled matters
A self-propelled mower drives its own wheels - you just steer. On a flat 200 m² lawn that's a nice-to-have. On a sloped 600 m² garden, it's the difference between enjoying the mow and dreading it. Most use a rear-wheel drive system powered off the engine via a belt.
Three self-propelled petrol mowers we recommend
1. Mountfield SP46 Elite (£449)
The workhorse. Mountfield's 46 cm steel deck, Honda GCVx170 engine, variable-speed rear drive and a 60 L grass box. This is the mower UK garden centres sell more of than anything else, and for good reason - it just works, year after year. Read our Mountfield SP46 review Check price →.
2. Honda HRX 476 VK (£899)
The premium pick. Honda's own GCVx200 engine, Versamow selective mulching, Roto-Stop blade brake (engine keeps running when you let go), and a build quality that'll outlast most gardens. Expensive, but you're buying a mower for 15+ years. Read our Honda HRX review Check price →.
3. Cobra MX46SPB (£349)
The budget self-propelled option. Cobra's Briggs & Stratton-powered 46 cm mower does everything the Mountfield does at £100 less. Build quality isn't quite as polished, but the engine and drive system are solid. Read our Cobra review Check price →.
Self-propelled vs push - the honest trade-off
Self-propelled costs more, weighs slightly more (the drive mechanism adds 2-3 kg), and has one more thing that can break. But on any lawn over 300 m² or with a slope, you'll be glad you paid the extra. Push mowers are best kept for small, flat gardens.