Two weeks after Toyota recalled nearly half a million Prius cars due to brake problems, Consumer Reports is still ranking the hybrid as it’s top pick for an eco-friendly car. The Prius has owned ‘green’ car rankings in the magazine for seven years running. But with the Toyota recalls now at 8 million plus vehicles total, does Prius still deserve the top spot?

In this USA Today article Consumer Reports experts suggest regulators require simpler ignition controls to allow drivers to shut off engines quickly. According to one expert the Prius push-button ignition must be held in for three seconds before the engine will be turned off.

What are your thoughts on the Prius? Does Consumer Reports continued #1 ranking lessen the reviewer’s credibility? Or simply confirm that Toyota builds quality vehicles despite the recent recalls?