The best grills are composed of almost all stainless steel, from the hood to the burners and cooking grids. Cleanability is another factor to look for. Check for easy-access burners and removable parts, as well as a good drip tray so that grease doesn't end up on your patio. Viking grills have well-designed drip guards to protect the burners as well, and Weber went as far as to protect burner tubes with little screens to keep spiders and their webs out. With most grills, use a good brass or copper brush regularly to keep grids clean, and simply ignite the burners and close the hood to burn off buildup.
Grills seem to be getting bigger each year.
To perpetuate a stereotype, it does seem to be men driving this trend. The top models, with more than 600 square inches of cook surface, can handle a crowd. Other bells and whistles abound. Side burners are popular, adding an easy place to cook a pot of vegetables while you grill. Warming trays, wood-chip smoker units and griddles add to cooking versatility.