JAGUAR has introduced plug-in hybrid technology to models in its popular SUV line-up to coincide with a facelift to both the E-Pace and F-Pace.

Both cars feature the company's latest design changes with slimmer lights, a new front grille and larger air scoops, but the more dramatic changes are inside the cabin with the very latest Pivi Pro infotainment set-up as standard.

This feature-rich system is accessed via an 11.4-inch display screen and there is also a fresh digital tft display behind the steering wheel. And both vehicles boast a wealth of on-board technology and safety kit.

Prices for the plug-in E-Pace start from £45,995 and rise to £50,860 while the F-Pace line-up ranges from £56,050 to £64,490.

There are a number of trim levels to choose from and, as is the premium car maker's way, buyers can fully personalise their models with a host of optional extras.

But the really big news is the introduction of plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) technology and we tried a model from each range.

The E-Pace P300e features Jaguar's 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine delivering 309PS when combined with the electric motor, while the F-Pace P400e is powered by the larger 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit developing a combined 404PS. Both models were all-wheel drive for added grip in poorer driving conditions.

Re-charging from zero to 80 per cent takes about 30 minutes from a fast charger and with an EV-only range of 34 miles, both cars can cover the average daily commute without using any fuel at all and totally emission-free.

The E-Pace can reach up to 84mph in EV mode and the F-Pace 87mph.

We tried the E-Pace in entry-level R-Dynamic S trim costing £45,995 (increased to £51,645 with options). This five-door model performs like a composed hot hatch with a 0-60mph sprint time of 6.1 seconds and top speed of 134mph. It offers a combined 141mpg with carbon emissions of 44g/km.

The acceleration through the automatic eight-speed transmission is ultra-smooth with steering wheel-mounted paddles for added fun. It's simple to switch from EV to Hybrid mode or the car will do this automatically if you are heavy on the throttle or if you put the vehicle into Dynamic drive mode, which also adds a red glow to the instrumentation. There is also a Save option to keep the EV-charge for when it may be needed such as driving through a congestion charge zone.

Driven in EV mode, the E-Pace has all the power and bite you could wish for - it's just much quieter in the process. It boasts sharp, responsive handling with excellent agility along the way.

Next was the F-Pace R-Dynamic in high-end HSE grade costing £64,490, increased to £69,015 with options. This bigger model has a 0-60mph sprint time of just 5.0 seconds and maxes out at 149mph while delivering a combined 130.2mpg with carbon emissions of 49-57g/km.

It seems strange such a powerhouse of a car starting up, pulling away and being driven in absolute silence, but the performance once again impresses. Noise levels within the car are beautifully refined and the handling is everything you could wish for from a premium car.

The new Pivi Pro infotainment system is responsive, easy to operate and the sat nav set-up is definitely one of the best on offer. The interior looks and feels very luxurious with supreme comfort levels for all occupants.

Expect to discover lots of on-board tech with the likes of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio, two-zone climate control and elegant leather upholstery on all entry-level cars.

Move up to HSE and the levels of luxury increase with 14-way powered, heated and cooled front seats with memory settings, a Meridian sound system, an electrically adjustable steering wheel, a powered tailgate and satin charcoal ash veneers.

Safety systems on all cars are comprehensive with a number of driver assist aids to help prevent accidents, including lane keep assist, dynamic stability control, trailer stability assist, hill launch assist, traffic sign recognition and adaptive speed limiters, brake pad wear indicator, a driver condition monitor and much more besides.

Passenger comfort levels are good in both cars, although back seat occupants are treated to extra space inside the larger F-Pace. There are lots of handy storage compartments scattered throughout the cabin and the boot capacity is virtually the same as the standard car too, so they certainly have all the practicality boxes ticked.

Possibly the best complement you could pay Jaguar is that both the PHEV models drive as superbly as their more traditionally-powered counterparts. They just bring plenty of extra options to the mix.