Palm biodiesel fuel is limited to 7% (v/v), that is, B7 in petroleum diesel used at Malaysian highlands due to concerns over poor flow characteristics. This article investigated the cold start performance of a common rail direct injection turbocharged diesel engine using B7, B10, B20, and B30 blends in a simulated cold climatic chamber at 5, 10, 15, and 20 C. All the blends passed the startability test at 20 C but failed at 5 C. Higher biodiesel blend of B20 could withstand moderate cold temperature (15 C) without startability issue, while B7 and B10 were usable beyond 15 C. Engine workability after start-up was insignificantly affected though, on average, 23% increase and 56% reduction observed in engine starting time and speed stability between B7 (standard) and other blends. Emissions of CO was noticeable, <0.1%, while CO 2 and NOx were reduced by 13% and 18%, respectively during cold start-up using B10 and B20. It is expected that B20 could be destined for at the Malaysian highlands with the coldest temperature not exceeding 15 C threshold for more than 5 h. Considering the importance of cold filter plugging point, it is suggested for inclusion in existing diesel standards to minimize issues while deploying high biodiesel blends at highlands commercially.