Volvo introduced a mid-life cycle refresh for its flagship model, the 960, in 1994 and technologically improved underneath.
While it still looked like a brick on wheels with some shaved corners, the 960 sedan had its say on the premium segment. It offered a different kind of luxury than the German or the American premium carmakers and was known for its safe, dependable vehicles.

The 1994 model saw a change in the company’s design language. The 960 featured rounded edges and a new front fascia with slimmer headlights and a redesigned wrapped-around plastic bumper along with the facelift. Unfortunately, on the sides, the carmaker couldn’t do too much about the door panels and windows. They still looked flat, but the Volvo added body-colored plastic molds over the doors and fenders to protect them from minor scratches in parking lots.

Inside, the carmaker didn’t make important changes. Its dashboard looked like the one from 1990. An important improvement was on the safety department; Volvo installed a dual airbag to protect the front occupants. At the back, the car provided plenty of legroom for two passengers. The middle seat was available with an integrated child seat.

Under the skin, the 1994 960 received a redesigned rear multilink rear suspension with a transverse leaf spring instead of coils. In addition, both axles provided a wider track, for improved handling. Under the hood, the carmaker installed a newly developed 2.9-liter, inline-six engine with 24 valves.