Any one else noticed new cars (generally German ones) are now coming with funny broken fog lights that one fades on when turning corners and then fades out again afterwards

Whats that all about then

Just looks weird to me and I can't help but see them and think - I wonder if he knows he's got his fogs on and has a broken bulb Freelander 2 TD4 Auto, SE, Narvik Black, Alpaca full leather, Rear Headrest Entertainment System, 6 CD, 18 HSE Wheels, Privicy tints

It's for cornering at slow speeds.
The fog light on the side where you turn the steering wheel is lit in order to help you see what is it where you turn/manoeuvre.
Here is an explanation from your favourite brand:
http://www.bmw.com/com/en/newvehicles/x5/x...ights.html

Sounds like a bit of a fad to me - even if the best automotive manufacturers do it

I still think it looks rubbish - even if it does help  Freelander 2 TD4 Auto, SE, Narvik Black, Alpaca full leather, Rear Headrest Entertainment System, 6 CD, 18 HSE Wheels, Privicy tints