In a method for operating a forced-induction internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle with variable compression, provision is made that the variable compression is pilot-controlled in such a way that a selected compression is established as a function of combustion efficiency and of the mechanical stress on components of the internal combustion engine, such that elevated compression is provided in the naturally aspirated range and/or decreased compression is provided in the forced-induction range. The variable compression is generated by phase shifting of a camshaft of the internal combustion engine, or by cam switching by way of a variable valve train.