Earthling, keep in mind you aren't driving your BMW and your Prius - at the same time.
So you are choosing between fast and slow (..slower).
The key is - "Is the Prius fast enough?" Most people think so. I have the 2006 Civic Hybrid, and it's fast enough for most situations. Admittedly, the Camry Hybrid is CONSIDERABLY faster. And that can mean an extra measure of get-outta-trouble safety. It's just a matter of if one thinks they NEED this extra capability.
I've been used to pretty fast cars all my life (big V8s, Maximas, RX7s, Infinitys, Jaguars, MBs, etc.), and I'm not really missing the power much now. And I do feel safe.
The Prius is the mileage champ; the Camry Hybrid is the speedier, more costly, luxury champ. They're both great cars, I think. You need to drive them both.

Steve

STOP terrorism - Drive a HYBRID

Vehicles:
350 miles a week ------------ 2006 HCH II, Magnetic Pearl, w/NAVI (born on May 25, 2006)
350 miles a month ---------- 2003 Mazda Tribute ES-V6
350 miles a year (for now) - 1986 Mercedes 560SL