Yes—cars still have a 12-volt power outlet that powers chargers and other accessories; however, the actual heated cigarette lighter has largely disappeared from new models.
In practice, the outlet is used for USB adapters, wireless charging pads, and other small appliances, with availability varying by region, make, and trim. Electric vehicles (EVs) still rely on a 12-volt system for certain peripherals, but some models reduce or repurpose the traditional lighter component entirely.
Current reality: 12V outlets versus the lighter coil
To understand what “cigarette lighter” means today, it helps to separate the legacy device from the enduring power outlet:
- The 12V accessory outlet (often still labeled as a cigarette-lighter socket) remains a common feature in many new cars, powering devices from tire inflators to car vacuums and phone chargers.
- USB ports (USB-A and increasingly USB-C) are widely included for fast charging and data, often replacing the need to use the 12V outlet for small electronics.
- Wireless charging pads have become standard on many mid- to high-end models, reducing reliance on any physical plug in the center console.
- The traditional heated lighter element is increasingly rare and may be omitted entirely in favor of a purely 12V outlet; some trims still offer a lighter as an optional accessory, but it is far from universal.
Bottom line: the 12V outlet persists as a practical power source in most vehicles, while the old lighter coil is fading from new-car configurations.
Regional and vehicle-type variations
Market differences and vehicle design choices shape what you’ll find in a given car:
- In the United States and many other markets, most new cars include at least one 12V outlet, with the actual lighter element disappearing from many trims but not all. Availability can vary by model and price tier.
- In Europe and parts of Asia, the pattern mirrors the US: 12V outlets are common, USB-C ports are increasingly standard, and the traditional lighter is less common, especially in new builds.
- Electric vehicles (EVs) still maintain a 12V system to power accessories, but some models consolidate ports and emphasize USB-C and wireless charging; the number of 12V outlets can vary by vehicle class and option packages.
- Aftermarket options—12V-to-USB adapters, portable USB hubs, and dedicated 12V powered devices—remain widely available for consumers who want to customize charging setups.
In short, the 12V outlet remains a staple across many car lines, while the nostalgic lighter element has become optional or historical in many new vehicles.
Summary
Car cigarette lighters as a standalone feature are increasingly a relic, but the concept lives on in the form of 12-volt accessory outlets. Modern cabins often prioritize USB-C charging and wireless pads for everyday devices, while the traditional lighter coil becomes rarer and more dependent on trim or aftermarket choices. For buyers, checking the specific model’s cabin power options—and considering your device charging needs—will determine how you’ll power accessories in the vehicle. The trend points toward more streamlined charging solutions, with the familiar lighter socket persisting as a convenience rather than a necessity.