There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a peaceful ride, but that usually doesn’t happen on the way to work fighting rush-hour traffic. It may be possible to avoid the loud sounds of that morning jaunt, if riding in the new 2008 Saturn Aura XE I-4. It has noise-reducing technology including acoustic laminated front door glass, thicker rear door glass and wind-tunnel tested exterior mirrors, all contributing to a peaceful ride.

Quiet doesn’t have to mean slow. This ‘08 Saturn includes a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine that generates 169-horse power and includes Variable Valve Timing. The model uses hydraulic steering and a stiffened body structure to give a confident feel when driving the Aura XE I-4.

Safety is an important piece of this car, as it comes with many standard features. Features adding to passenger security are OnStar services, child security locks and airbags protecting from front and side impact. Also impressive is a theft-deterrent system, PASS Key III, which uses an engine immobilizer and radio frequency technology. With this system, the engine has to recognize a proper key to start, making it difficult for this car to be stolen.

Halogen headlamps, chrome body side moldings and LED tail lamps give this model a sleek design that’s hard to look away from, and also includes other convenient features such as cruise control, remote keyless entry and a steering wheel containing audio controls. The Aura XE I-4 comes standard with an AM/FM radio with a CD player, satellite radio and MP3 playback capability, and six speakers.

The new 2008 Aura XE I-4 is impressive for the base model, including advanced music technology, and also mixing in safety, security and affordability. It is likely to appeal to many this year.