I’m finishing grad school in august and moving back to Alaska. I need a reliable, snowy weather, dirt-road capable vehicle. I sold my old Escape to help fund grad school. I’ve always liked VW cars and came across a Touareg with 73k miles for a shade over 8grand. Having only ever owned domestic American cars I’m not familiar with what to ask in terms of “was this car taken care of” and would appreciate any and all help you can offer.

I know the repairs are more expensive than a standard Ford or Chevy, but what am I looking at for a car that’s 12 years old and this mileage? My last two cars were a Ford Focus and a Ford Escape and they have me no trouble outside of basic maintenance issues. There are multiple dealers and mechanics who can work on the car in Anchorage, if that helps.

This car is I’m looking at is in NC, where I’ll be driving up north from come August.