Toyota Prius (2010)

The recall, which entails a change to the anti-lock braking (ABS) program of the vehicle's electronic control unit, was made in response to reports of inconsistent brake feel in certain road conditions when the ABS was activated.

Last year, just 348 second and third generation Prius (mostly non-private sales) were sold in Queensland compared with nearly 8000 Toyota Corollas, 7000 Mazda3s and more than 5000 Mitsubishi Lancers. While much better equipped, the third generation base model is $2500 dearer ($39,900) and the higher-spec I-Tech $6500 more ($52,000) than the second gen.

At the press of a button, there’s a choice of three driving modes: EV (electric, good for 2 km), ECO (where throttle mapping prioritises fuel economy and the airconditioning is regulated) and PWR (which, as the name suggests, delivers a power boost).

There’s no doubting Prius has ‘the smarts’ technologically and standout environment credentials but, sadly, against the best of best conventional mid-size cars, the petrol-electric hybrid is only average on ride, handling, braking, comfort, space, practicality and ergonomics. And performance – while improved, thanks to a larger 1.8-litre petrol engine and upgraded electric motor – is still short of the asking money.