The news, which comes as the carmaker unveils its new XC90, would see the ultra-premium model offer a four-seat layout, dispensing with the seven-seater’s third rows of seats and moving the second row further back to bring increased leg room. The rear seats would also gain the extra functionality of the front row seats, with extendable squabs, electric adjustment, massage function and adjustable seatbacks.

As with other carmakers, Volvo says China remains a key market for it in 2014, where it will continue to implement its China Growth Plan and work towards the launch its first jointly developed car with Geely Automobile as early as 2015. Reports says the bespoke XC90 could be due out before the end of this year.

The news follows Infiniti’s unveiling last month of its Q50L at the Chengdu Motor Show. With an overall length of 4852mm/191.0in and wheelbase stretched to 2898mm/114.1in – 48mm/1.9in longer wheelbase than the standard Q50, the model will provide more room and comfort for rear passengers and is aimed exclusively at the Chinese market.