Hi.
I Just got my Prius this week, replacing a beloved '93 Camry wagon.
Package 2. I love the backup camera, esp. since I don't have a driveway,and my younger daughter will learn to drive this Summer.
I haven't heard of a brake failure problem. Hybrids are REALLY easy on the brakes. My '03 Civic hybrid has 74K miles, and the original pads.
One week on, the main sacrifice in the Prius is space: Just enough headroom for me (6' 4"), and cargo space with the seats up (about the same as the HCH trunk, but narrower.
Based on Consumer Reports article on Extended Warranties, I didn't consider it: they advise not paying for what amounts to insurance against breakdowns if your car is rated high in mech. reliability, as the Prius is.
I hope this helps.
Enjoy the car, and safely!
Dan