A method is described for starting an engine of a motor vehicle under varying temperature conditions. The method may include during a first, higher-temperature, starting condition, directly injecting fuel into all of the combustion chambers the initial fueled cycle comprising crankshaft rotations during which at least some fuel is injected for a first time since the engine was brought from rest. Further, during a second, lower-temperature, starting condition, the method includes directly injecting fuel into less than all of the combustion chambers during at least the initial fueled cycle of the engine. In this way, it is possible to prevent the engine's pump from being outstripped during cold-start conditions at low engine temperatures. Also, it may allow subsequently fueled cylinders to start at a higher engine speed and lower manifold air pressure than otherwise possible, thereby further reducing the need for overfueling.