SOME CADILLAC DEALERSHIPS GET FRESHENED LOOK

General Motors Corp. is partially bankrolling renovation work at about 150 key Cadillac dealerships so the showrooms better reflect the luxury division's new styling and products.

One dealership has done the facelift, and work is underway at 12 more, says Kim McGill, Cadillac director-retail development.

About 75 dealerships will complete the upgrades this year, followed by another 75 in 2003, says McGill.

Of Cadillac's 1,491 dealerships in the U.S., 200-300 do the lion's share of the business, according to McGill

“We're not forcing (the showroom enhancements) on dealers,” says McGill. “They're always investing in their dealership anyway. So we're putting some money on the table to help out.”

McGill wouldn't say what GM is spending or how much the upgrades cost dealers.

The exterior updates include a new fascia and glass canopy. Showrooms get black porcelain flooring, wall coverings, enhanced lighting and new furniture.