Volvo goes upscale for wealthy buyers

First new model from China parent will be spruced up SUV, the XC90

With headlights shaped like Thor's hammer and space for a humidity-controlled cigar case, Volvo's new cars are sporting luxury features and designer glitz to catch the eye of the booming Chinese market and shed their safe-but-dull skin.

The XC90 SUV launch on Aug 26 will be make or break for a company moving into a premium market dominated by German rivals.