Alfa import car insurance

phoilmc

My car insurance is up for renewal very soon and I have received what I think to be a unreasonably high renewal quote from Direct Line, my current insurer. I want to look elsewhere but the stumbling block I have is my car is an import from Ireland, bought through a well known London supermarket. The car is an Alfa 147 1.6 Sportivo which is similar to the UK Lusso version, I think, with just a few minor differences in spec - the car is right hand drive etc as it is for the Irish market. I went with Direct Line because they were one of the few who could give me a quote - I think the problem is that because the Sportivo (like many imports) do not come up in the usual insurers database, they are unable to offer a quote - this is what I have been told anyway! I have read with interest the other posts on this site (which is top notch) but my question is, does anyone have a 147 Sportivo and if so, who are you insured with? I am fed up paying Direct LIne a huge premium despite the fact I have full no claims bonus and have had a car for over 17 years! I am going to try confused.com as recommended here but any other advice welcomed. Thanks in advance.