The present disclosure provides a method for controlling a hybrid vehicle having an engine, an electric motor, an energy storage device having a state of charge, and a throttle. The method improves fuel economy of the hybrid vehicle by determining the state of charge of the energy storage device and setting a throttle depression level for engaging the engine based on the state of charge of the energy storage device. The present disclosure further provides a hybrid vehicle having an engine, an electric motor, an energy storage device having a state of charge, and a throttle. The hybrid vehicle includes a controlling component for determining the state of charge of the energy storage device and setting a throttle depression level for engaging the engine based on the state of charge of the energy storage device.