The invention relates to a multi-stroke hybrid propulsion system. A hybrid propulsion system for a vehicle and method of operation are described. The hybrid propulsion system includes an internal combustion engine that may be operated in a multi-stroke mode, whereby the engine may be selectively operated in one of a two stroke cycle and a four stroke cycle depending on operating conditions. As one example, the two stroke cycle may be utilized to provide increased engine torque when a recharging operation of the on-board energy storage device is requested. In some examples, a transition from the four stroke cycle to the two stroke cycle may be performed while maintaining the transmission in the previously selected gear ratio in response to a requested increase in charging or a requested increase in wheel torque as requested by the vehicle operator. By means of the invention, it is capable of reducing transmission shift and improving a total efficiency of the hybrid propulsion system.