Would definitely recommend winter tyres for a cross european journey from november. By the way, I just did a trip from northern Denmark to Tuscany in Italy, some 4.000 km roundtrip in my poor 1.8. It did brilliant, the best cruising speed around 165 km/h speedo (160 according to sat nav) but not good for fuel economy
Best to keep it on 120-130 km then. Was a little disappointed at higher speeds with the 1.8, above 180 km/h it gets a harsh sound from the engine, but no problems at all controlling the car. But still, what can you expect from a 1.8
It's a very pleasant car to drive for several thousand km's/miles and you don't get tired at all. The handling is simply perfect.