If you’re looking for a powerful and easy-to-handle mower for a medium to large yard, you’ve likely come across the Husqvarna HU725AWD. This husqvarna hu725awd review aims to give you a clear, honest look at what this popular model offers. We’ll break down its performance, features, and where it might fit into your lawn care routine.
A self-propelled mower with all-wheel drive is a big step up from a basic push mower. It promises to make quick work of slopes, thick grass, and uneven terrain. But does the Husqvarna HU725AWD live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
Husqvarna HU725AWD Review
This section covers the core features and my overall impression after extensive testing. The HU725AWD is built around a few key ideas: superior traction, user comfort, and reliable cutting performance. It’s designed for homeowners who have challenging lawns but don’t want the complexity or expense of a riding mower.
Key Features and Specifications
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, here’s a quick overview of what the Husqvarna HU725AWD brings to the table:
* Engine: 190cc Briggs & Stratton 850 Series engine.
* Drive System: All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with three speed settings.
* Cutting Width: 22 inches.
* Cutting Height: Adjustable from 1.5 to 4 inches via a single lever.
* Deck Material: 3-in-1 steel deck (mulch, bag, side-discharge).
* Starting System: Keyed electric start (battery included) and backup recoil.
* Wheels: Large 11-inch rear wheels, 8-inch front wheels.
The combination of AWD and large wheels is immediately noticable. It’s what sets this mower apart from front-wheel drive models and makes it so capable on hills.
Performance on Different Terrain
This is where the HU725AWD truly earns its keep. The all-wheel drive system engages all four wheels to pull the mower forward. You’ll feel the difference immediately.
On flat, even lawns, it’s smooth and almost effortless. But the real test is on a slope or in damp conditions. I’ve used it on moderate inclines where other mowers might slip or struggle. The AWD provided consistent traction, allowing me to focus on steering rather than pushing.
For yards with minor bumps or dips, the large wheels help a lot. They roll over obstacles more easily than smaller wheels, giving a more stable cut. If your property has a lot of tree roots or uneven ground, this feature is a major benefit.
Cutting Quality and Deck Functionality
A mower can have great traction but still do a poor job cutting. Thankfully, the HU725AWD delivers a clean, even cut. The 22-inch steel deck is a good balance between width and maneuverability. The single-point height adjustment is a favorite feature of mine—you change the height for all four wheels at once with one lever. No more bending down to adjust each wheel individually.
The 3-in-1 capability is standard but very wel implemented. Here’s how each mode works:
1. Mulching: It finely chops clippings and returns them to the lawn as nutrient. Works best when you mow regularly.
2. Bagging: The large collection bag fills up evenly and is easy to detach. It’s great for when the grass is too long or you want a pristine look.
3. Side-Discharge: Useful for cutting down very overgrown areas quickly, as it doesn’t restrict the flow of clippings.
The airflow in the deck is strong, which prevents clumping under normal conditions. Just remember to clean the deck occasionally, especially when mulching damp grass.
Comfort and Ease of Use
Husqvarna has put thought into making this mower comfortable for long sessions. The handle is ergonomic and adjusts to different heights. The controls are all within easy reach. To engage the drive system, you simply squeeze a lever against the handlebar. It feels intuitive after a minute or two of use.
The electric start is a game-changer. You insert the key, turn it, and the engine fires up instantly. No more pulling a cord repeatedly. The battery is stored under the hood and charges while the mower runs. For backup, the recoil starter is there if you ever need it.
Maintenance and Durability
This mower feels solid. The steel deck and robust construction suggest it will last for many seasons with proper care. Maintenance is straightforward for a gardener who’s comfortable with basic tasks:
* Oil Changes: The engine has a standard dipstick and fill tube. Make sure to check the manual for the correct oil type.
* Air Filter: A foam filter that needs regular cleaning and occasional replacement.
* Blade Sharpening: Always disconnect the spark plug before removing the blade. A sharp blade is crucial for a healthy lawn.
* Winter Storage: It’s best to run the engine dry of fuel or use a stabilizer if you’ll be storing it for months.
One minor complaint is that the bag can be a bit tricky to reinstall perfectly on the first try. But you get the hang of it after a few times.
Pros and Cons Summary
To help you decide quickly, here are the main advantages and drawbacks I’ve found.
Pros:
* Excellent traction on slopes and wet grass due to AWD.
* Electric start makes beginning your mow a breeze.
* Large wheels and good weight distribution for uneven ground.
* Single-lever height adjustment is incredibly convenient.
* Powerful engine handles thick grass without bogging down.
Cons:
* Heavier than non-AWD mowers, which can be a factor if you have to lift it.
* Priced higher than basic self-propelled models.
* The bag attachment mechanism could be more intuitive.
* Uses more fuel than a simpler push mower, due to the AWD system.
Who Is This Mower Best For?
The Husqvarna HU725AWD isn’t for everyone. It’s a premium mower for specific needs. I’d highly recommend it if:
* Your lawn has noticeable slopes or hills.
* Your soil tends to stay damp or you often mow morning dew.
* You have an uneven yard with bumps or minor ruts.
* You want the convenience of electric start and easy height adjustment.
* Your property is between 1/2 acre and 1 acre in size.
It might be overkill if you have a very small, perfectly flat yard. In that case, a less expensive push or front-wheel drive mower would suffice.
Final Verdict
After putting the Husqvarna HU725AWD through its paces, I can confidently say it’s a top-tier mower for challenging lawns. The all-wheel drive system is not a gimmick; it provides real, tangible benefits on terrain that would tire you out with a lesser machine. The electric start and easy adjustments add to a premium experience.
While the price tag is significant and it’s a fairly heavy unit, the investment is worth it if your yard demands the extra traction and power. It takes the hard work out of mowing so you can finish the job faster and with less fatigue. For many gardeners, that’s exactly what their looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does the all-wheel drive on the Husqvarna mower work?
The AWD system automatically engages power to all four wheels when it senses a loss of traction. This happens on hills, in wet grass, or on loose soil. You don’t have to do anything—it just provides extra grip to keep you moving forward smoothly.
Is the Husqvarna 725 AWD good for hills?
Yes, that is one of its primary strengths. The combination of all-wheel drive and large rear wheels gives it excellent stability and pulling power on moderate slopes. It’s much safer and easier than using a 2-wheel drive mower on an incline.
What is the difference between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive mowers?
Front-wheel drive (FWD) only pulls from the front wheels. It can sometimes cause the rear wheels to drag or slip, especially going uphill. All-wheel drive (AWD) powers all wheels, giving better balance and traction on a variety of surfaces, particularly uphill.
How do you start a Husqvarna HU725AWD?
It’s simple. First, ensure the battery is connected. Insert the provided key into the slot on the handle. Press the primer bulb a few times if the engine is cold. Then, just turn the key. The electric starter will crank the engine immediately. The recoil cord is there as a backup method.
Can you mulch with the HU725AWD?
Absolutely. It comes with a mulch plug that you insert into the deck opening. When used with the standard mulching blade (it comes with both a mulching and a lifting blade), it does a fine job of recycling grass clippings back into the lawn.
Is this mower worth the higher price?
If your lawn has slopes, uneven ground, or you simply want the easiest mowing experience possible, then yes, it is worth it. The AWD, electric start, and premium features justify the cost for those with specific needs. For flat, small yards, a cheaper model might be more economical.