A control system for an engine includes a torque phase detection module, a torque request generation module, and an engine torque control module. The torque phase detection module detects a start of a torque phase of an upshift of a transmission coupled to the engine. The torque request generation module generates an engine torque request at the start of the torque phase of the transmission upshift. The engine torque control module controls engine torque during the torque phase of the transmission upshift based on the engine torque request.