New Honda HRX lawn mower

It might not be capable of mowing a crop, but the redesigned HRX lawn mower from Honda has more than enough horsepower to handle the house block.

According to a Honda spokesperson, the latest overhaul has resulted in a 12 per cent increase in horsepower of the replacement engine model, the GCV190.

Pitched in the premium market, the new model has been released as either an electric or recoil start.

The Honda spokesperson said the HRX is the first Honda mower to incorporate the new GCV200 engine, which along with horsepower has also increased the torque.

"A 10pc increase in torque was important in the case of a walk-behind lawnmower such as the HRX, as the size of the engine and its torque capabilities relate directly to the ability of the machine to tackle tough jobs and produce a clean, even cut," the spokesperson said.

"As the engine is responsible for generating the torque power on a lawn mower, more torque means more force is delivered to the blades, which results in easier and faster cutting, especially in heavy, thick grass where stalling is more prevalent."

To cope with the increase in power, the spokesperson said the mower features an improved blade clutch.

"Also the blade brake system safely stops the blades from spinning, allowing users to step away from the mower and keep it running in order to move items out of the way, empty the bag, or take a break, all without having to switch the engine off," they said.

Other features include a larger fuel tank, an oil fill tube to make servicing easier and a tool-less air filter.

"The Honda auto choke system on the new GCV200 engine allows for dependable starts, regardless of hot or cold weather conditions," a Honda spokesperson said.

"This automatic, user-friendly system eliminates the need for levers and cables and once the engine is running, the auto choke system automatically adjusts to the optimal operating position.

"Innovative Honda design features, including an improved combustion chamber shape, advanced auto choke design, and easier fuel and oil filling, make the GCV200 engine convenient to use."