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.

Ford Transit Custom 2026 review: Sport Double Cab - GVM test
By Mark Oastler · 19 Sep 2025
For tradies, mid-sized commercial vans (2.5 to 3.5-tonne GVM) are like warehouses on wheels given they can offer up to 6.0 cubic metres or more of secure load volume.
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Mitsubishi Triton 2026 review: GLX Double Cab chassis - GVM test
By Mark Oastler · 08 Sep 2025
The Mitsubishi Triton cab-chassis in base-grade GLX trim is clearly aimed at buyers wanting a turbo-diesel ute that's primarily designed for hard work, but does it tick all the boxes for tradies?
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Toyota Tundra 2026 review: Platinum - GVM test
By Mark Oastler · 25 Aug 2025
The Tundra full-size pick-up was launched in its native USA a quarter of a century ago, yet it's taken that long for the big American to finally be available in Aussie Toyota showrooms. So, has the much anticipated right-hand-drive version been worth the wait?
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GWM Cannon Alpha 2026 review: Ultra PHEV - GVM test
By Mark Oastler · 21 Aug 2025
The GWM Cannon Alpha PHEV has recently replaced its ground-breaking Hybrid predecessor, but does the newcomer's rechargeable battery tech and electric-only driving mode enhance or hinder its workhorse practicality?
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JAC T9 2026 review: Haven 4x4 - GVM test
By Mark Oastler · 18 Jul 2025
The number of Chinese players in Australia’s 4x4 ute market continues to rise, with BYD, GWM and LDV recently joined by JAC Motors (Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Company Ltd) with its T9 offering.
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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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