The higher prices apply to all models except the X-type compact executive. Prices for the S-type executive range now start at £25,550 for the 2.5 V6, £600 more than before. The range-topping S-type R now costs £48,600, an increase of £1200.

Jaguar has put up prices on the XK coupe and convertible by £1200, with the line-up now starting at £49,900. The top-spec XKR Convertible is £1550 more expensive at £64,900.

XJ models also rise by between £950 and £2300, putting the entry-level XJ6?s price tag up to £39,950. However, the luxury car now comes with metallic paint, heated seats and a heated windscreen on all versions except the XJ6.

Jaguar has defended the increases, pointing to a long period of stable prices on most models. A spokesman said: ?We haven?t altered S-type pricing since the face-lifted car was introduced in early 2002.?

Alongside the new prices, Jaguar has introduced ?Plus? versions of the S-type range. The new additions kick off with the 2.5 V6 SE Plus, which costs £750 more than the £29,500 SE but gains around £3000 worth of equipment. Added goodies include a reverse parking sensor, headlight power washers, heated windscreen, heated front seats with electrical adjustment, a CD-multichanger, rain-sensing wipers, footwell mats and 17-inch alloy wheels in place of the standard 16-inch items.

?Plus? packages are also available on Sport models and the range-topping S-type R. Buyers opting for a ?Plus? version of the R will gain satellite-navigation and a premium-quality stereo, although the price is £2500 more than the standard car.