Faults:

One of the tail lights is not sure if it's gonna work or not.

Some problems with central door locking in cold weather; fixes itself above zero.

A creaky sound at the brakes just before stopping.

Some interior creaks.

Parking sensors in front beeping all the time (when turned on).

I'm having heavy arguments with the voice controlled GPS. Especially when debating what temperature we're going to have in the car.

General Comments:

Despite some minor irritations this is overall a very nice, if a little dull car to drive. Very well equipped.

Silent running, but at high revs it sounds like a dustbuster, with a hint of sewing machine and a electric shaver. Weird exterior, but you get use to the "pregnant Celica" look.

Spacious inside for 5 adults. Because of the sloping rear, luggage space is limited. Seats are nice, but could have been better on long trips.

Interior is otherwise practical and functional in its futuristic ways. Some plastic feels a bit "CD cover" like.

Cheap to drive, but not cheaper than a diesel. Uses 10-15% more per mile than written on the paper, and up to 20% more in the winter.

Traction control useless up icy hills. You just stand there and nothing happens, and you can't turn it off.

Very light steering, but not very accurate. Feels like you're driving in pudding on twisty roads. Strong brakes, but there are cars with better road holding.

Lots of airbags is a plus. You're gonna need it when a cowboy with a Suburban runs over you.

Faults:

Nothing. I borrowed this car for 2 weeks from my work with the intention to purchase.

General Comments:

I borrowed this car from the company that I work for, since they have a large fleet of Toyota cars. I'm used to the Avensis 2.0 Turbo Diesel wagon and I have considered a smaller car, either a Corolla or the Prius. There's a long waiting list for the Prius at the dealers, so I was lucky to borrow this near new car from my company.

But I will not purchase the Prius since it was a major disappointment. It's the same price as the Avensis and:

1. It's totally cramped, it's even smaller than the Corolla

2. It's pricey and it lacks essential equipment

3. It's quite thirsty, even compared to my Avensis TD. A Corolla Turbo Diesel will be much better

4. This engine totally lacks any punch if you are used to turbo diesels

5. Driving dynamics are just a joke. It runs like an old van and is about as comfortable as one.

I REALLY can't understand why anyone purchase these Prius cars. It must be the worst purchase available in the market. It's just such a bad car. Is not the whole point to save petrol? Why don't people just buy turbo diesels? Then you have a wide selection of cars with various equipment.