Our MPV Starex rental is configured for 11+1 passengers, but it’s important to note that the front passenger seat beside the driver (+1) is best suited for a small child —most adult guests prefer the second, third and fourth row seating. If all rows are folded upright, the minimum seating capacity you can achieve is a 6‑seater configuration, allowing room for luggage or making it more comfortable for fewer passengers.

When fully occupied with 11 or 12 passengers, the luggage space is minimal—only room for small bags. For optimal luggage capacity, most drivers recommend seating 8 adults plus one small child in front, then folding the entire third row (a continuous 3‑seat bench) forward to create a generous storage area for suitcases or gear . This arrangement balances passenger comfort with ample cargo room—ideal for family road trips.

Hyundai Starex equipped with various basic safety features such as four airbags, ABS, ESC and traction control system. There is also rear camera assist to ease your reversing task.

The Hyundai Starex runs on diesel fuel—specifically a 2.5 L CRDi diesel engine. It's crucial for renters to remember this: filling it with petrol can result in the car breaking down or being stranded, leading to delays and extra fees for towing and repairs, all of which are charged to the renter

No, you do not need a special GDL license to drive a rented Hyundai Starex. As long as you hold a valid Class D license, you are fully qualified. In Malaysia, a Class D license covers driving private or commercial vehicles with seating capacity between 10 and 30 passengers—well within the Starex’s configuration (Driving licence in Malaysia). Therefore, your standard Class D license perfectly meets the requirement for a Hyundai Starex rental.

1. Short‑term Visitors (Under 90 Days)

• If you're from any ASEAN country, you can drive using your valid domestic driving licence issued in English—no IDP required.

• If you're from a non-ASEAN country, you must carry a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside your domestic licence. Ensure the licence is in English or officially translated.
  (Motorist.my)

2. Long‑Term Stay (Over 90 Days)

• As of May 19, 2025, the Malaysian Road Transport Department (JPJ) ended all standard license conversion processes for most foreigners.
  (Paul Tan's Automotive News)

• Exceptions still allowed to convert include:

  • Diplomats

  • Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) participants

  • Foreigners already married to Malaysian citizens

  • ASEAN citizens still driving with their domestic licences under the 1985 agreement

  • Tourists staying less than 12 months driving with IDP under Geneva/Vienna conventions
    (Relo Network Asia) (Paul Tan's Automotive News)

• Others not exempt must follow the same licensing process as Malaysians, including safety briefing, theory and practical tests, and applying for a Probationary Driving Licence (PDL).
  (Relo Network Asia)

3. Rental Companies' Policies

• Many car rental providers accept a valid foreign licence (and an IDP is needed) without requiring conversion—particularly for short stays.

• Do not rent a car using an invalid licence—this may lead to traffic fines (up to RM 1,000 or 3 months jail) or insurance refusals. JPJ has also conducted enforcement operations against rentals given to foreigners without a valid licence.
  (thesun.my)