I lived in one myself, for a short time. It was certainly peaceful enough .. but it got annoying having to drive for an hour-plus any time you wanted to 'do' anything.

I don't feel that John Lasseter was trying to 'shame' anyone for not growing up, or living, in a small town. The real point of Cars is Lightning McQueen's 'journey' from self-absorbed wunderkind with no friends, to a sympathetic car that understands and cares for his friends. "Our Town" is the moment where McQueen begins to 'understand' the residents of Radiator Springs, thanks to his drive with Sally, and their ensuing conversation of why a sporty Porsche would choose to live in such a place.
I do agree that "Our Town" is not the best song on the Cars soundtrack, though. Personally, I've always preferred Randy Newman's scores and compositions to his lyrics.
