Since this thread has been recently bumped, I'll add one more observation: the Equinox really does not really enjoy accelerating from a stop when it's snowy/icy out. I think the traction control overcompensates and the car tends to always slip a bit as it gets up to speed, especially in a short right turn. The traction control light comes on when this happens.

It took me a few snowstorms to get used to that. Next time we get a dusting, I may try turning off the traction control at the stop light and see if that helps a bit.