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Realization of the leanburn SI engine's potential for improved fuel economy strongly depends on precise control of the air-fuel ratio (AFR), especially during transients, for acceptable driveability and low exhaust emissions. The development of an adaptive-feedforward model-based AFR controller is described. A discrete, nonlinear, control-oriented engine model was developed and used in the AFR control algorithm. The engine model includes intake-manifold airflow dynamics, fuel wall-wetting dynamics, process delays inherent in the four-stroke engine cycle, and exhaust-gas oxygen (UEGO) sensor dynamics. The sampling period is synchronous with crank-angle (“event-based”) for more precise control. The controller relies on the engine speed and throttle position for load information. An intake-manifold pressure (MAP) sensor is used for identification of the airflow dynamics, but not for control. The MAP sensor would also be useful for the cold start and for engine diagnostics.