So in essence, although it hasnt got it fitted, you're still in the same group as those 'really awful HID kits'.
Not really. Im using original Mercedes Xenon W202 headlamps with original spec bulbs. The only thing thats missing is the self levelling but I can adjust my headlamps manually using the existing system, so my headlamp lighting power is no different to if the car came out of the factory with this spec.