You may have purchased a replacement for your Craftsman already. When I looked at the 1848xp it became obvious that it was the equivalent of, I believe, a Craftsman DYT 4000, even made by the same people. There were a few differences, Kawasaki 18 hp on the Husqvarna, vs B & S 21 HP, or Kohler 23 or 25 hp on the Craftsman depending on model. Also besides color, there was a significant price preminum on the Husky, particularly when SEARS has their frequent sales. The Husky can be brought in for service/repairs vs having SEARS come out to the house, so you can get a good deal of help from the dealer. If you didn't like the Craftsman before, you may or may not like the Husky or Craftsman DYT today.
Although the Kawasaki engine is arguably better than the Kohler or Briggs, the engine should be the last item to give up the ghost on your tractor and may be a minor factor. The HP difference between 18 or 21/23/25 may or may not matter. depends whose measuring, but the 25 HP is a 39% jump over the 18 Kawasaki. Maybe the larger Kohler wouldn't work as hard as the smaller Kawasaki to do the same work and could therefore not use much more fuel or be as stressed as hard.
Until 9/19, Sears has the 21 HP Briggs on sale at $2199 with hydro trans and the 25 HP Kohler for $2399.
Just my thoughts, but then what the heck do I know, I don't even own a lawn or garden tractor, and I'm not pushing you in either direction. Good luck on your decision. By the way, what condition is the engine on your old tractor?
Joe