A vehicle control device for a hybrid vehicle, which equipped with at least an internal combustion engine and a rotary electrical machine that reduces the shock that is imparted to a vehicle when the internal combustion engine starts. The vehicle control device detects the running state of the vehicle and, if it is determined that the internal combustion engine will be started, adjusts the ignition timing according to the running state of the vehicle. The control device also improves the responsiveness of the hybrid vehicle when increased acceleration is required.