Malaysia has some wonderful driving roads: misty highland climbs, coastal routes and long bridges over the sea. Pair one with the right car and you have a day you will remember for years. Here are seven of our favourite drives, most within easy reach of Kuala Lumpur.
Always drive within the speed limit and to the conditions. Highland roads have tight bends, buses and lorries, and sudden fog or rain.
1. Kuala Lumpur to Genting Highlands
Distance from KL: about 60 km · Best car: Porsche 911 or Range Rover
The classic weekend escape. After the Karak Highway, the road climbs through the rainforest to around 1,800 metres, with sweeping bends and cool air at the top. Go early on a weekday morning to avoid the weekend crowds, and enjoy breakfast in the clouds.
2. Fraser’s Hill (Bukit Fraser)
Distance from KL: about 100 km · Best car: Porsche Cayenne or BMW X5
A quieter, narrower road climbing to a colonial-era hill station with stone cottages and birdwatching trails. The route has many tight bends, so a capable SUV makes it relaxing. Perfect for a slow Sunday drive and lunch at the top.
3. Cameron Highlands via Simpang Pulai
Distance from KL: about 200 km · Best car: Range Rover or Mercedes-AMG G 63
Take the North–South Expressway to Ipoh and climb from Simpang Pulai through tea-covered hills. Long, flowing curves and views of the plantations make this one of the best road trips in the peninsula. Plan two days and stay overnight.
4. The Penang bridges
Distance from KL: about 350 km · Best car: BMW 740Li or Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Penang has two bridges to the mainland. The second bridge (Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah Bridge) is about 24 km long, one of the longest in Southeast Asia. Cross one at sunset and return on the other. A comfortable grand tourer makes the long expressway drive from KL effortless.
5. Langkawi’s northern coast
Best car: a convertible or sports car
On Langkawi, the road north towards Datai winds between rainforest and the Andaman Sea, with views of the islands. Short distances, very little traffic and beautiful stops at beaches and viewpoints. Ask us about arranging a car on the island.
6. Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang, Sabah
Distance from Kota Kinabalu: about 90 km · Best car: a large SUV
The road from Kota Kinabalu climbs into the hills with views of Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s tallest mountain. Stop at Kundasang for the dairy farm and mountain views. Weather changes quickly, so start early.
7. East coast to Cherating
Distance from KL: about 250 km · Best car: Mercedes-Benz S-Class or Toyota Vellfire for a group
The East Coast Expressway crosses the peninsula to Kuantan and the beaches of Cherating. It is a long, smooth highway drive, ideal for a comfortable sedan or a family trip in a Vellfire.
Tips for a great drive
- Start early. Roads are quieter and temperatures cooler in the morning.
- Check the weather. Afternoon storms are common, especially in the highlands.
- Fill up before the climb. Petrol stations are fewer on mountain roads.
- Pack light for sports cars. A Porsche 911 has room for a weekend bag, not a suitcase.
- Respect the road. Highland routes are shared with buses, lorries and farm vehicles.
- Prefer to enjoy the view? Book a chauffeur and let someone else drive.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take a rental supercar to the highlands?
Yes, with care. Some highland roads have speed bumps and steep driveways, so we will brief you on ground clearance before you go.
Is there a mileage limit?
Each rental includes 250 km per day, or 150 km per day for supercars. That covers most of the drives above. Longer trips can be arranged.
Can I collect the car in KL and return it in Penang?
Yes. Choose a different return location when you book. A one-way fee may apply.
Plan your drive
Pick your car in the Sports & Supercars collection or the Luxury SUVs collection, and tell us where you are heading.