Low-temperature cold-start gaseous emissions of late technology passenger cars

•Euro 4/5/6 petrol and diesel passenger cars are tested at low temperature (−7°C).•Petrol cars emit at least 45% (CO) and 65% (HC) below the current legislative limit.•Diesel vehicles emit increased NOx emissions over the whole driving cycle (NEDC).•A Euro 6 diesel car is tested, equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction system.•A NOx limit for diesels could be introduced at −7°C test over urban driving cycle.