Does the Toyota Highlander have a power outlet?
Yes. Every Toyota Highlander has at least one 12-volt power outlet, and higher trims or certain model years offer a 120-volt household-style outlet in the cargo area or rear seating. Availability depends on the trim level and model year.
Understanding exactly what outlets are available requires looking at the specific year and trim of the Highlander you’re interested in. This article explains the standard 12-volt outlet and the optional 120-volt outlet, where they’re typically located, and how options vary across trims and generations.
Standard and common power outlets in the Highlander
The following overview covers the typical outlets you’ll encounter when shopping for or owning a Highlander. The list reflects common configurations across recent generations, but exact availability depends on the model year and trim.
Notes before the list: the Highlander generally includes a 12-volt (DC) outlet as a baseline power source. Some trims or model years add additional 12-volt outlets in rear seats or the cargo area. The presence and placement of these outlets can vary, so check your vehicle’s window sticker or owner’s manual for confirmation.
- One 12-volt auxiliary power outlet in the front center console (standard on all trims).
- Possible additional 12-volt outlets in the rear seating area or cargo area on select trims or model years.
In practical terms, a 12-volt outlet provides low-power charging for small devices such as smartphones, dash cameras, or small accessories. For most consumers, it serves as a convenient baseline power source across the lineup.
120-volt household-style power outlet: availability and placement
In addition to the standard 12-volt outlets, some Highlander trims offer a 120-volt household-style power outlet. This feature is not universal and is typically reserved for higher trims and certain model years. When present, the outlet is usually located in the cargo area (rear of the vehicle) and can power small appliances and devices that require full household voltage, though it is generally rated for modest wattage to preserve vehicle battery life.
Because the 120-volt outlet is not standard on all Highlanders, it’s important to verify whether your specific model year and trim include it. If you rely on this feature for camping, tailgating, or charging larger devices, confirm the outlet’s availability and wattage in the window sticker or owner’s manual.
- Typically available on higher trims such as XLE, Limited, and Platinum in many recent years.
- Availability can also appear on some Hybrid configurations, depending on year and package options.
If your Highlander does include a 120-volt outlet, it’s best used for light to moderate loads (for example, small appliances or charging laptops), and you should avoid running high-power devices that could exceed the outlet’s rating or drain the 12V/auxiliary system.
How to determine what your Highlander has
To confirm the exact outlets on your vehicle, use one of these quick checks:
- Check the owner’s manual under the electrical or power outlets section for outlet type, wattage, and placement.
- Review the window sticker or the vehicle build sheet (if you’re shopping) to see which trim level includes the 120-volt outlet.
- Inspect the cabin area: look for a standard 12V port in the front console, and look in the cargo area if you’re curious about a possible rear 120-volt outlet.
In any case, the Highlander’s power outlets are designed for everyday convenience—charging devices, running small accessories, or powering modest appliances during trips. If you need substantial power for tools or larger equipment, consider alternate solutions such as a high-capacity inverter, while observing vehicle ratings and safety guidelines.
Year- and trim-specific notes
The exact combination of outlets can vary by model year and trim. Toyota’s lineup has evolved, and the availability of a 120-volt outlet has shifted across generations and packages. If you’re evaluating a used Highlander or a new build, verify the outlet configuration for that specific vehicle to avoid surprises.
When in doubt, contact a dealer or consult the owner’s manual for the precise electrical features of the exact model year and trim you’re considering. This ensures you’re aware of both the power outlets and any power limits or safety cautions associated with their use.
Summary
Across the Highlander lineup, a baseline 12-volt outlet is standard, providing convenient charging in the front (and sometimes rear) areas. A 120-volt household-style outlet is available on higher trims and certain model years, typically located in the cargo area, but not universal. To know precisely what your Highlander includes, check the specific model year and trim, the window sticker, or the owner’s manual. For most buyers, the combination of a 12V outlet plus a possible 120V outlet on higher trims offers flexible power options for everyday charging and light-duty devices.
