A method is provided for controlling an induction motor having a rotor. The method includes receiving a torque command; comparing the torque command to a threshold torque value; generating, with a first estimation module, a first estimated rotor resistance when the torque command is less than or equal to the threshold torque value; generating, with a second estimation module, a second estimated rotor resistance when the torque command is greater than the threshold torque value; and generating control signals for the induction motor based on the first estimated rotor resistance or the second estimated rotor resistance.