Our verdict
The bottom line
The benchmark petrol roller and the mower most lawn-care professionals secretly own. The Honda engine is the reason — it will outlast three cheaper machines and resale stays strong because everyone knows it. Worth the premium new and easily worth the premium used.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Honda engine — bulletproof reliability
- True Versamow mulch-and-collect on the fly
- Rear roller leaves perfect stripes
- Holds resale value better than any rival
Cons
- Heavy at 40kg on hilly lawns
- Premium price even used
- Versamow lever can stiffen with age
Full specs
| Type | Petrol |
|---|---|
| Cut width | 47 cm |
| Engine / Power | Honda GCVx 170 OHC 166cc |
| Weight | 40 kg |
| Deck | Steel |
| Self-propelled | Yes |
| Rear roller | Yes (stripes) |
| Mulching | Yes |
| Cutting heights | 6 positions |
| Bag capacity | 85 L |
| Suited to lawn | Large |
| Noise level | 95 dB |
Buying second-hand
Used-market tip
Used HRX 476s rarely drop below £450 — anything under £400 with a clean deck is a buy. Check the Roto-Stop blade-brake clutch engages cleanly (it should freewheel when released). Look at the rear roller bearings for play. If the seller says "needs a service," knock £80 off — that is fair. Avoid any with welded deck repairs.
Where to look: Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree are usually 20–30% cheaper than eBay UK for petrol mowers because most sellers want local pickup. eBay tends to win on cordless and electric (lighter, easier to ship). Always insist on a starting demonstration before paying.