^^
Golfs and jettas come like that in the USA so can't be deemed that unsafe if there activated by VW, and why is it unsafe when you have them set to glow a dim orange when your sidelights are on its not like they flash.
....I didn't know about the setting being legal in the good old U S of A, but my thinking is that the emitted light intensity
relative between 'sidelight' setting and flashing as an indicator will be less than between off and indicating. Factor in various ambient and sunlight
relative intensities, and it doesn't contribute to a stronger and hence safer signal to other road users.
I changed my rear Mk5 Golf lights to OEM Valeo LED units (like Passats) to make my signalling stronger and therefore safer and not to make a fashion statement.
Dimmer signal light differences and stretch tyres might be fashionable but at what risk to road safety? Looks cool at shows but not wise on the road.