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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.

    Renault Kangoo 2025 review: SWB petrol auto
    By Mark Oastler · 15 Jan 2025
    Renault's Kangoo has for many years been a popular choice for small van buyers in Australia. The 2024 release of the third-generation model was keenly anticipated, but does the latest petrol-powered model set a new benchmark?
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    Renault Kangoo 2025 review: E-Tech - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 20 Dec 2024
    Renault has recently joined its French rival Peugeot in offering a full-electric small van in Australia. However, given its high purchase price, does it bring enough value in other ways to be a genuine alternative to VW's enduringly popular Caddy Cargo range?
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    Peugeot E-Expert 2025 review: Pro Long Auto - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 13 Dec 2024
    The Peugeot E-Expert brings zero tailpipe emissions to the mid-sized commercial van class with its fully electric drivetrain, but does its high purchase price deliver more than just clean air credentials?
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    KGM SsangYong Musso 2025 review: XLV Ultimate Luxury Pack - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 27 Nov 2024
    There are many different makes and models to choose from in today's highly competitive 4x4 dual-cab ute market. For those prepared to look beyond the major players, is the KGM SsangYong Musso XLV Ultimate Luxury Pack the bargain its low drive-away pricing would suggest?
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    Volkswagen Caddy 2025 review: Maxi Life TDI320
    By Mark Oastler · 14 Nov 2024
    The people-mover segment of the Australian new car market is dominated by Kia's Carnival eight-seater. However, there are smaller seven-seat alternatives like Volkswagen's Caddy Life, but does it have the interior space and versatility Aussie families need?
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    Toyota HiAce 2025 review: LWB - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 22 Oct 2024
    The Toyota HiAce dominates new one-tonne van sales in Australia by a staggering margin. So, is there more to this workhorse than just unshakeable customer loyalty to the trusted Toyota badge?
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    Hyundai Staria Load 2025 review: Premium Liftback
    By Mark Oastler · 11 Oct 2024
    For any light commercial van in the Aussie new vehicle market putting a dent in the Toyota's HiAce's sales dominance is a tall order. But Hyundai is chipping away with its Staria Load tested here for load-carrying ability and and broader capabilities.
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    Nissan Navara 2025 review: SL - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 28 Sep 2024
    While the highly-specified 4WD dual cab ute models get all the focus its the no-fuss entry-level models that get the work done. And Nissan's Navara SL is a classic example. Not the highest profile option in the market and getting a bit long in the tooth but it still has a lot to offer tradies needing a tough truck.
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    Ford Transit Custom 2025 review: GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 05 Sep 2024
    The HiAce dominates one-tonne commercial van sales in Australia, with almost one in every two buyers opting for the trusty Toyota. Long-time rival Ford has just released its new-generation Transit Custom, but does it have what it takes to topple the local king of mid-sized vans?
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    Toyota HiLux 2025 review: SR5 V-Active Double-Cab 4x4 auto - GVM test
    By Mark Oastler · 02 Sep 2024
    The current generation Toyota HiLux ute is perilously close to its tenth birthday and Toyota has moved to freshen up its appeal with a mild hybrid version of the SR5 grade. Does it make a difference and is it enough to change you mind about that Ford Ranger you've had your eye on?
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