A method for selecting a preferred combustion mode for an internal combustion engine operative in a plurality of combustion modes is described. The method includes selecting a combustion mode in terms of first and second engine parameters, and separating the engine operating region into zones defined by the first parameter. Each of the zones is further separated into sub-zones defined by the second parameter. A combustion mode is associated with each of the sub-zones. Operating states are determined for the first and second parameters. One of the zones is identified based upon the state for the first parameter. One of the sub-zones of the identified zone is identified based upon the state for the second parameter, along with a combustion mode associated with the identified sub-zone. The engine is controlled to the preferred combustion mode, depending upon hysteresis.