That's because the headlights got ever smaller, they are now point sources that output as much power (or more) than previous generations but from a much smaller spot. The fact that it is all direct light now rather than indirect via mirrors also doesn't help, that means you're looking straight at the lightsource instead of at a reflection across a much wider area.

There is some talk about regulating minimum projected area for a given amount of power to reduce this effect somewhat.

Red lights on the front? Is that a common thing, I've never heard of it. Surely it's illegal?