Yup it is the TCS cutting in.. when throwing it into a corner the wheels obviously start to lose grip and so as expected the traction control goes bonkers and takes over to control the wheels..
I find it actually sometimes helps out when banging it into a corner in the wet, as it holds back the throttle until the car is straightened up before letting loose with the power and preventing a vacation to the 'outer hedgebridies'..
I do think it spoils the fun though and doesn't allow me to use my driving skill, so turn it off most of the time... can be handy when I aren't 'going for it' and just driving in a relaxed manner quickly down country lanes.. prevents getting caught out..
I think that youhad to specify ESP on the cars.. and it was probably only imports that had it.. they never asked me if I wanted ANYTHING extra with my car other than the multichanger when I got mine.. which was naff.. as I would have happily bought strut brace, bigger wheels and ESP on it if they had asked at the time.. would have gone on the finance.. now I have other things to spend the cash on.. typical dealership just wanting to get the sale done and car out the door I reckon.