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This study presents the results of a comparative analysis of exhaust emissions from compression ignition engines compliant with Stage III and Stage V emission standards. The research focused on assessing the actual toxicity of exhaust gases using the BAT-CELL method, as well as on the morphological characterization of particulate matter via scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The aim of the study was to determine potential differences in the harmfulness of emissions produced by engines meeting different regulatory standards. The BAT-CELL method was applied using the L929 cell line, which was exposed to exhaust gases collected from four work machine engines meeting either Stage III or Stage V standards. Cell viability was assessed following exposure under various engine operating conditions. The results indicated that, in most viability tests conducted, exhaust gases from Stage V compliant engines exhibited higher cytotoxicity compared to those from Stage III compliant engines. SEM analysis of the external morphology of cells revealed that exposure to emissions from an idling Stage V engine, operating without filters, may induce apoptosis. SEM imaging of particulate matter demonstrated that particles from Stage III engines were more homogeneous in size and shape, whereas those from Stage V engines displayed greater morphological diversity. Irregularly shaped, elongated particles, as well as structures resembling nanoscale spikes – absent in Stage III samples – were observed in Stage V samples. Parametric assessment of the particles confirmed that Stage V particles exhibited lower roundness compared to Stage III particles, which, combined with the presence of spiked structures, may potentially increase the risk of cellular damage.