Wait...unable to disable traction control? (Score 2, Insightful)

Ok, a few comments. First, there really is no reason for blasting the stereo or driving over 80- so I don't see an issue with that. On that same note, I see this as more of a "marketing" gimmic than anything else; to make parents feel better for their lack of time spent teaching their kid how to drive. What I do have a problem with is the innability to disable traction control (at least within certain limits). I grew up in areas where we got a lot of snow and traction control is AWFUL if you are trying to get your car unstuck. I completely understand the need for traction control over 15mph because it DOES help you maintain control (my Saabs ESC is awesome at speed); but for that initial "getting the car moving" it can be nothing but an unpredictable hindrance...just when you go to rock the car- the power cuts out...awful, or sometimes it doens't cut and the car moves more than expected...not fun. Now some might say "well they shouldn't drive when its snowing". What I am talking about is getting out of that "leftover from the plow around your parking spot" snow...you don't always have a shovel handy and there is definately a real chance of getting stuck somewhere if you can't rock the car effectively in some of our snowier climates. In my opinion the BEST safety equipment is driver training. I cannot say enough for real behind-the-wheel defensive driver training. Not the "driving school" you take to get your permit (in NJ anyway); but where they simulate "bad" conditions and teach you how to drive safely through them.