Volvo’s Chinese bosses may have lost the battle for an uber-luxurious Swedish sedan, but that’s apparently not going to stop them from getting a very plush variant of the 2016 XC90.

According to Autocar‘s sources, Volvo will produce a special version of its redesigned XC90 crossover for the Chinese market. But here’s the catch: instead of being a practical, 7-seater, this Chinese XC90 will only have four seats.

Instead, this will be a very high-end version majoring on rear seat legroom and comfort, claim the same sources. These seats are expected to offer a full range of adjustments, as well as added rear seat conveniences. Picture a Range Rover Long-Wheelbase Autobiography Edition and I think you can gather what Volvo is aiming for.

It’s an interesting development as Volvo pushes upmarket with this model. Given China has warmed up to crossovers and Geely’s desire to push Volvo head-to-head with Audi, Mercedes and BMW, it will be interesting to see if buyers warm up to a plush XC90 – with less practicality.

Expect to see this XC90 at some Chinese auto show next year.

By Zac Estrada

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