DOC coupled with SCR represents a key technological approach for reducing gaseous pollutant emissions from diesel engines. Based on engine bench testing using a light-duty diesel engine as a prototype, this study investigates the impact of DOC coupled with SCR at different catalyst loadings on diesel engine emission characteristics. Results indicate that higher DOC loadings lead to greater exhaust backpressure losses, with a maximum pressure difference reaching 4.3 kPa. The temperature difference across the DOC was minimally affected by catalyst loading. Higher DOC loading enhanced catalytic activity toward CO and THC. At medium-to-low loads, this effect was pronounced, while at high loads, the influence of catalyst loading diminished. Higher DOC loading enhances NO oxidation capacity. Under external characteristic conditions, elevated engine exhaust temperatures maximize post-DOC NO₂ formation, increasing post-DOC NO₂ production by over 100%. These findings provide useful guidance for optimizing diesel aftertreatment systems to achieve a better balance between pollutant reduction, energy consumption, and environmental sustainability, thereby supporting the sustainable development of cleaner diesel engine technologies.