Abstract: A method of controlling engine idle speed in a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine and multi-ratio transmission when launched from a neutral idle rest condition. At neutral idle, the transmission is controlled such that the input and output members are decoupled. During vehicle launch from neutral idle operation, two different strategies may be employed to control engine idle speed. One preferred method is to determine a feedforward or predicted torque converter load as a function of time. Another preferred method is to determine the feedforward or predicted torque converter load by comparing a maximum engine brake torque and the torque capacity of the forward clutch at any given time. Irrespective of the particular method used, other engine torque loads are added to the feedforward or predicted torque converter load to determine the engine output torque required to control engine idle speed and provide a smooth between transmission operating modes throughout the launch period.