BMW confirmed today it will launch a new model called the X7, a larger SUV that tops the current X1, X3, X4, X5, and X6 range.

The X7 will be built in Spartanburg, South Carolina, the same factory where BMW already builds all of its SUVs except the X1.

The new model, which will go head to head with the full-sized Range Rover, the Mercedes-Benz GL and the Audi Q7, is expected to only be offered with permanent all-wheel drive and with a choice of 6- and 8-cylinder engines.

It is also expected to arrive in 2016 with enough seats for seven. All of which suggests that BMW is targeting the US more than Europe with the X7.

All of which means that 2016 is going to be a very busy automotive year for the SUV segment. As well as the X7, Alfa Romeo, Lamborghini and Bentley have all scheduled 2016 launches for their own off-roaders.

They look set to be joined by Jaguar: a production car based on the C-X17 is currently in development. Seen as more a sports car with a high driving position than a genuinely utilitarian 4×4, it will attempt to compete with the recently launched Porsche Macan.

An ambitious target but an understandable aim as it would be unlikely for Jaguar to try to compete with Land Rover, seeing as both brands are part of the same parent company.