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    Articles by Mark Oastler

    Mark Oastler
    Contributing Journalist

    Mark Oastler has been a prominent motoring journalist in print and electronic media for more than three decades.

    Now based in Melbourne, his diverse roles have included more than a decade of motor sport TV commentary for both the Seven and Ten networks, editor of Street Machine magazine, founding editor of Australian Muscle Car magazine and freelance contributor to Wheels, Motor, Auto Action, Unique Cars, V8X, AMC, Suncorp and many more.

    In addition to his regular LCV reviews and advice pieces for CarsGuide, he is also a feature writer and online TV host for the popular Shannons Club website.

    JAC T9 2026 review: Haven 4x4 - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 18 Jul 2025
    The JAC T9 is the latest Chinese competitor to enter Australia's hotly contested 4x4 ute segment, but how does it measure up as a workhorse for bargain-hunting tradies?
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    Iveco eDaily 2025 review: van - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 08 Jul 2025
    Iveco’s E6 Daily van and cab-chassis range recently welcomed an electric twin in the form of its new eDaily variant. Launched in Europe in late 2022, it represents the first Iveco full-electric vehicle range to be offered in Australia.Being based on the conventional diesel Daily ensures eDaily customers will be familiar with the specifications and features of these vehicles in either van or cab chassis form.The eDaily also ensures a seamless transition for commercial bodybuilders, given that its main electrical components sit wholly within the conventional chassis frame and the body-mounting positions are unchanged.We recently spent a working week with the full-electric model to assess its credentials for not only tradie duties but also door-to-door distribution, cold-chain logistics and many other job requirements at the Light Duty end of the Heavy Commercial vehicle market.
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    BMW X3 2026 review: M50 xDrive
    By Mark Oastler · 05 Jul 2025
    BMW's X3 is one of the German manufacturer's most successful models in terms of sales volume. So, does the premium offering in the latest G45 generation hit another sweet-spot for families wanting sporty practicality?
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    GWM Cannon 2025 review: Ultra - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 22 Jun 2025
    The GWM Cannon has always offered great value for money with high levels of standard equipment at low prices. In 2025 it's shifted up a gear with a larger engine, benchmark towing and numerous other enhancements, so is that what's needed to topple the Ford Ranger and Toyota HiLux?
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    Ram 1500 2025 review: Laramie Sport - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 19 May 2025
    The latest Ram 1500 range swaps traditional Hemi V8 power for a new twin-turbocharged straight six offering more power and torque. So, how does the new 'Hurricane' engine perform in a working role?
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    Mazda BT-50 2025 review: XTR Cab Chassis - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 07 May 2025
    The Mazda BT-50 boasts good looks and solid Isuzu engineering, so how does it measure up as a tradie's tool-of-trade in cab-chassis form?
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    BYD Shark 6 2025 review - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 27 Apr 2025
    The BYD Shark 6 brings advanced plug-in electric/petrol engine hybrid technology to Australia's 4x4 ute segment. But does it have the robust workhorse capabilities of traditional turbo-diesel rivals?
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    Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo 2025 review: GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 07 Apr 2025
    The fully electric Volkswagen ID.Buzz Cargo has muscular retro-modern styling and sporty dynamics, but is it a genuine alternative to traditional turbo-diesels in Australia's mid-size (2.5-3.5-tonne GVM) commercial van segment?
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    GWM Cannon Alpha 2025 review: Ultra Hybrid - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 18 Mar 2025
    GWM won the race to launch Australia's first full-hybrid ute, but does it have what it takes to topple the traditional turbo-diesel?
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    Volkswagen Caddy Cargo 2025 review: TDI320
    By Mark Oastler · 08 Mar 2025
    The VW Caddy Cargo has long been a favourite in Australia's light-commercial vehicle market, but does it still set the benchmark for small vans in Australia?
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