Dede Sophie

The new Alfa Romeo Tonale has gone on sale in Ireland at a starting price of €49,995, writes Brian Byrne. The compact crossover is available with mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains, and in two grades along with a ‘Speciale’ extra launch version.  All versions are automatic, with outputs of 160hp and 280hp respectively, the latter being AWD thanks to the electric motor on the rear axle.  The PHEV includes a 15.5kWh battery thats some 36pc bigger than that used in the Jeep Compass PHEV, to which the Tonale is closely related. The car kicks off the new Irish distribution by Gowan Auto, based in a purpose-built HQ at City West, Dublin. Currently there are three Alfa Romeo dealerships, in Dublin, Cork and Waterford. Plans are to increase this to a network of eight. Two other models are currently available, the Giulia large sedan and the Stelvio SUV which sits above the Tonale.

The alpine garden at Nymans in West Sussex is one of the key features here. Unfortunately and despite being a glorious autumn November day we found that we were barred (along with all the other visitors that day) from visiting this part of the garden! Why? Well the ground here was so wet that water was beginning to pool on the surface so anyone walking across it will cause damage.  That being said you can see the overall landscape in which the alpine garden sits which will give you an indication of how good these gardens really are. If you would like to see more content like then then consider subscribing to out YouTube channel ‘Walking Talking Gardeners’. It is absolutely free and you can unsubscribe at any time instantly.