Thinking of a new vehicle (3)

Okay, here's the deal - I have a 2001 Cavalier Z24 - very disposable car, kinda like a bic lighter. Bought it last summer - not so happy with it...too small, kiddo is now 6 feet tall (13 yrs old), like folding up a giraffe!
And, we are relocating to the Yukon, so I have to drive up at the end of March.
The deal is this - I found at a local dealer, a 1996 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4 door, 4X4. under 200K for mileage. Very good condition, new tires etc. NOw, my question is this, they will trade me for my car plus a grand. My gut is telling me to do it, but I am so leary of salesmen - am I getting "screwed"? I have heard great things about the Jeep Cherokee, anyone with testimony? Glen thinks that I should go for it, much better and appropriate vehicle for the Alaska Hiway and for up there....taking all opinions under consideration!!!

Some advice I keep hearing is: Take the vehicle to an independent mechanic, that you trust, for an assesment. He can tell you if the vehicle is good or if there are problems. Better to spend a few $ now on an assesment, than $$$$$$$ later on repairs. If you know the previous owner, talk to him/her. If possible talk to other Jeep grand cherokee owners.

Good luck