DETROIT (AP) — General Motors Co.'s new CEO Mary Barra says she will largely keep in place the plans of her predecessor, from a restructuring in Europe to a focus on improving profit margins. But she hopes to accelerate that progress.

Barra says GM needs to strengthen the image of its Cadillac and Chevrolet brands. She also wants to make sure GM's regions are sharing best practices, something that hasn't always happened in the past.

Barra met with a small group of reporters Thursday for her first interview since she became CEO last week. Former CEO Dan Akerson stepped down to care for his ailing wife.

She says she will lead in a collaborative way. Barra kicked off her tenure by meeting last week with GM's top 300 leaders to share her goals.