Which is better for a deep soak?

The Kohler Avec. It has a 14-inch bathing depth and a slotted overflow that lets you fill higher, plus lumbar and neck support. The Mariposa is a whirlpool tub, so its appeal is jets and heat rather than depth.

Is the Mariposa worth the extra $103?

Yes if you want jets and a heated surface. The Mariposa adds six adjustable jets, a built-in heater and three heat settings for about $103 more at the listed prices. If you only want to soak, the Avec does that for less.

Which is easier to step into?

The Kohler Avec. It has a low step-over height and is ADA compliant. The Mariposa has a 20-inch overall height, which means a higher rim to climb over.

Do both fit a 72 x 36 alcove?

Both are 72 inches long and 36 inches wide and are drop-in tubs. Check the drain location: the Avec drain is on the left, while the Mariposa has a reversible end drain.

Which needs more work to install?

The Mariposa. It needs power for the pump and heater and has multiple pump location options. The Avec comes with its overflow and toe-tap drain preinstalled, so it needs no electrical hookup.

Both are acrylic tubs, and acrylic shells generally hold up well for years. The Mariposa has more parts that can fail, namely the pump and heater, while the Avec has no mechanical components beyond the drain.

Kohler Avec 72" Drop-In Tub vs Mariposa 72" Drop-in Bathtub

Buy the Kohler Avec if you want a deep, quiet soak with a low step-over and a preinstalled drain at the lower price. Buy the Mariposa if you want a heated backrest, whirlpool jets and a built-in heater. As of November 6, 2026, the Avec is $1,136.62 at Amazon and the Mariposa is $1,240.09 at Wayfair, so the Avec costs about $103 less.

Today the Kohler Avec 72" Drop-In Tub costs $103.47 less at its best price.

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