We bought the Prius in 2007 knowing that mathematically it didn't make as much sense as a cheaper car. Our thought was someone has to buy the new technology in order for it to grow and become cheaper. (Think about home computers in the early 80's. If someone had not paid crazy money for them, we would be here today!)
We have had zero problems with the Prius and it now has over 100,000 miles on it. My husband drives it 40 miles each way to work every day. He will drive it until I drops over dead. Our truck has is a 1991 with 200,000 + miles on it and our van is a 2002 with 160,000 miles. There are no plans to replace them. When the van drops dead, I will be replaced with the highest mileage vehicle we can afford to pay cash for.