Articles by Mark Oastler

Mark Oastler

Contributing Journalist

Mark Oastler has been a prominent motoring journalist in print and electronic media for more than four 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 reviews and advice pieces for CarsGuide, he is also a feature writer and online TV host for the popular Shannons Club website.

Ford Ranger XL Plus 2018 review: snapshot

By Mark Oastler · 26 Feb 2018

The Ford Ranger XL Plus has unique features designed to meet the specific requirements of mining companies, government departments and other organisations needing more functionality from their vehicle

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Ford Ranger XLS 2018 review: snapshot

By Mark Oastler · 26 Feb 2018

The XLS is designed to bridge the gap between 4x4 XL and XLT models on price and features, offering a more appealing package for both fleet and private buyers without compromising the XL's no-nonsense work-focused persona. Based on the XL dual cab ute, it shares all of its features including Ford's 'SYNC' multiple

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Ford Ranger XL 2018 review: snapshot

By Mark Oastler · 26 Feb 2018

The XL is the entry point for the 2018 Ford Ranger range.

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Volkswagen Caddy 2018 review

By Mark Oastler · 31 Jan 2018

The VW Caddy is a runaway star in the compact van class, but is this fourth-generation model also a credible SUV alternative for families chasing extra cargo space?

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Nissan Navara SL 2017 review

By Mark Oastler · 19 Jan 2018

Nissan's Navara SL fills a gap in its range you might not have known was there, an in-between model that sits outside the traditional three-tiered spec-level progression.

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Holden Colorado LTZ 2018 review

By Mark Oastler · 19 Dec 2017

The re-engineered and facelifted MY17 Holden Colorado is such an improvement over the 2012 original, that in many ways it feels like a different vehicle. It's now one of the best all-rounders.

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Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 Crew Cab 2018 review

By Mark Oastler · 01 Dec 2017

The Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 Crew Cab can carry up to five occupants and a mountain of cargo under a shared roof, with greater theft/weather protection than a premium dual cab ute for similar money.

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Nissan Navara N-SPORT Black Edition 2018 review

By Mark Oastler · 22 Nov 2017

There's nothing like a limited edition to spark buyer interest, even if it's mostly cosmetic. The Nissan Navara N-SPORT Black Edition stands out, looks good and there are only 500 on the books.

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Toyota Hilux TRD pack 2018 review

By Mark Oastler · 06 Nov 2017

With the Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux now outselling traditional sales favourites like the Toyota Corolla, 4x4 dual cabs are a big deal, and Toyota is looking to cash in with its TRD-equipped Hilux.

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Great Wall Steed 4x2 petrol 2017 review

By Mark Oastler · 25 Oct 2017

The few petrol-powered utes that remain, including Great Wall’s 4x2 Steed, are competing for a shrinking number of potential buyers.

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