Abstract: There is provided a multizone catalytic process for the treatment of exhaust gas comprising nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide. In the multizone catalytic process, the exhaust gas is directed through a first zone, a second zone, and a third zone. The first zone comprises a catalyst that is effective for the three-way conversion of nitrogen oxides, hydrocarbons, and carbon monoxide. The second zone comprises materials effective to sorb hydrocarbons, e.g., zeolites ZSM-5 and Beta, particularly iron modified zeolites ZSM-5 and Beta. The second zone is effective for the adsorption of hydrocarbons from the exhaust gas during the cold-start period of operation of an internal combustion engine. The third zone comprises a catalyst that is effective for the oxidation of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.