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.

Mercedes-Benz GLS 2026 review: 450d

By Mark Oastler · 22 Dec 2025

The GLS450d is the entry-level model in Mercedes-Benz's flagship SUV range but does its unique blend of performance, luxury and practicality make it the best choice for families?

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Toyota HiAce 2026 review: LWB Barn Door - GVM test

By Mark Oastler · 16 Dec 2025

The Toyota HiAce has long reigned as the king of mid-sized commercial vans, but are recent upgrades enough to ensure it remains on the throne?

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Audi Q5 2026 review: TDI quattro

By Mark Oastler · 19 Nov 2025

Audi's third-generation Q5 brings numerous technical and styling enhancements but are they enough to make it a stand-out in Australia's highly competitive premium mid-sized SUV market?

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GWM Cannon 2026 review: Premium single cab chassis - GVM test

By Mark Oastler · 05 Nov 2025

The single cab-chassis 4x2 is typically the lowest-priced utilitarian workhorse, with a standard equipment list that usually offers little more than steel wheels, unpainted plastic in high-wear areas, fabric seats and wipe-clean vinyl floors. And you pay extra for a tray.

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Ford Ranger 2026 review: XLT PHEV - GVM test

By Mark Oastler · 01 Nov 2025

Ford has come out swinging against Chinese rivals in Australia's growing plug-in hybrid ute segment, but does its Ranger-based PHEV have the right mix of price, power and performance to be the tradie's choice?

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Kia Tasman 2026 review: S 4x2 Dual-cab Pick-up - GVM test

By Mark Oastler · 29 Oct 2025

The all-new Kia Tasman generated plenty of celebrity-driven hype prior to its launch in 2025, but does it have the credentials to meet high expectations of Aussie ute buyers?

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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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