Monthly Archives: August 2017

The Audi A5 Sportback

Finally arriving in the US after finding success in Europe, the Audi A5 Sportback is here. It feels like a condensed version of the Audi A7, but based on the design of the A4 sedan. It’s a blend of the best parts of a coup and a hatchback, with a roomy interior and lots of power.

The engine is turbocharged with a two-liter engine with 252 horsepower, taking it from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds. The Quattro all-wheel drive feature enhances handling in addition to active torque distribution in the rear axle.

One of the best parts of this 2018 Audi is the technology featured throughout the vehicle. The virtual cockpit has endless possibilities for customization, with a seven-inch infotainment system with elements for navigation, audio, and Apple CarPlay and even Google Earth. The engine is packed with a seven-speed dual clutch automatic, so shifting in most traffic settings can be done with foot controls.

The Audi A5 model went on the market in May 2017, and tested to have an observed 29 mpg fuel economy. The exterior is gorgeous, and the interior is ergonomic. This Sportback is a great mix between a coupe, sedan and hatchback. This model can be found at Ugo Colombo‘s The Collection in Coral Gables, Florida.

Read more about this model in Auto Week.

 

Miami Skyline at dusk

New Miami Real Estate Study: Where to Invest

The polling firm Bendixen & Amandi International and the Miami Herald conducted a survey in June of 2017 to evaluate the current state of the Miami Real Estate market. The survey was focused on the mid-range market, so luxury real estate agents’ perspectives were less of a focus–an interesting move, being that the luxury market is bustling in Miami.

The survey was based in the idea that the best investments in Miami real estate lie in appreciating property values. They found that the hottest neighborhood in Miami is Miami Beach. Specifically, Miami Beach is the best place to purchase an apartment, and the best neighborhood for young professionals.

If you are in the market for a single-family home, the research suggests that the best investment would be found in the Coral Gables area. Another notable mention is the Brickell area, which a survey respondent (a real estate agent or broker) said was “one of the hottest areas for millennials”.

Interestingly, the most undervalued neighborhood is Homestead, which is known for gated communities, new restaurants and shopping, as well as the Homestead Hospital. They believe the next emerging market, with a good ROI over the next five years, is Little Havana.

Overall, the survey revealed that 36% of respondents believe real estate values in Miami-Dade County will appreciate, and 73% believe that now is the time to own, rather than rent.

Ugo Colombo has helped shape the Miami real estate market as a commercial and residential developer. Starting out in the Brickell community, Ugo also had a huge stake in redefining the market in South beach by rejuvenating the Waldorf and Casa Grande.
To read more about this study, visit The Miami Herald.