Engine and method for controlling homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion in a diesel engine

The present invention relates to a method for controlling homogenous charge compression ignition combustion in a diesel engine having at least one combustion chamber in which homogenous charge compression ignition combustion occurs in separate first and second combustion stages, wherein said method comprises the steps sensing an operating characteristic representative of said first combustion stage; and injecting water into said combustion chamber subsequent to sensing said operating characteristic representative of said first combustion stage at a time and for a length of time sufficient to delay the start of said second combustion stage until a piston disposed in said combustion chamber is at a preselected position.